Birth Control Options in Lafayette, LA
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Overview
Today, there are many options as it relates to birth control. To select the one that is best suited to your needs, and those of your partner, you should consult with Dr. Rachelle Meaux. As a board-certified gynecologist, Dr. Meaux will take the time to discuss your birth control needs and help you decide what option is best for you. Call (337) 216-0000 to schedule an appointment at our gynecology clinic in Lafayette, LA.
What is Contraceptive Counseling?
A birth control counseling appointment is a consultation to help navigate through the various contraceptive options, discuss personal preferences regarding the methods, and ultimately select the most suitable option based on the patient’s current needs. During these visits we help patients get answers to important questions, discuss short-term and long-term goals, and get personalized advice.
We hold all our contraceptive counseling sessions within a private office setting, and any information patients share with us is safeguarded by patient-provider confidentiality.
- Hormonal Contraceptives
Hormonal birth control can often help to regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle and associated symptoms by stabilizing her hormones. While hormonal contraceptives are particularly common, they are not recommended for each and every female. This decision will be based upon the patient’s health and any prior conditions or risk factors she may have.
- Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills are a form of oral contraception that generally contain two hormones, estrogen and progestin, and are taken daily to prevent a woman’s ovaries from releasing eggs. They also help to prevent pregnancy by causing the cervical mucus to thicken, which blocks sperm from fertilizing an egg. Birth control pills are safe, effective, and convenient.
- Intrauterine Device (IUD) Options
An IUD is a highly effective, long-term contraceptive device that is placed inside the uterus by your gynecologist during a routine office visit. This small, T-shaped device is made of soft, flexible plastic and can provide pregnancy prevention for anywhere from 3 to 12 years, depending on the specific model chosen.
- Birth Control Patch
Used correctly, the patch is as effective as birth control pills are in preventing pregnancy. The patch is a form of birth control that a patient wears on the skin and looks like a small bandaid. The hormones it contains (estrogen and progestin) are similar to those used in birth control pills but are absorbed through the skin. The patch works by suppressing the pituitary gland which, in turn, prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs. It also thickens cervical mucus making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg.
- Birth Control Shot
The Depo-Provera shot, or Depo shot, is another very effective method of birth control. This shot must be given once every 3 months by a trained medical professional, typically during a quick appointment at our office locations in Lafayette. Women who receive this shot will typically experience lighter periods, or will stop getting their period all together after several months of consecutive shots. This method is especially beneficial to women who are looking for a flexible and low-maintenance form of birth control that is still highly effective with a success rate of over 99%.
- Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing)
A vaginal ring is a form of contraception that is soft, flexible, and worn in the vagina. The key benefit of the ring is that a patient does not need to take it daily to get complete monthly protection. In a given one month period, the ring must be inserted into the vagina, removed after 3 weeks, and a new ring inserted no more than 7 days later. The hormones it contains (estrogen and progestin) are similar to those used in birth control pills. However, unlike birth control pills, they are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the vaginal wall, delivering a consistent level of medication improving effectiveness and limiting side effects.
Birth Control Options
Non-Hormonal Forms of Birth Control in Lafayette
Some women can experience adverse side effects from adding more hormones to their body via contraceptives. Non-hormonal options are ideal in these situations, and are also commonly recommended for women who wish to breastfeed while remaining on an effective form of birth control.
Condoms
Condoms are a barrier form of birth control that physically block the sperm from entering the vagina. They are the only form of protection that can help to stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), like HIV, and prevent pregnancy. A condom is a latex or polyurethane sheath that is closed at one end and fits over a man’s penis. Condoms are also available for females and have a flexible ring at either end. One end is closed and inserted into the vagina and the other end is open with the ring remaining outside the vagina. To help assure protection, users should read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a thin, rubber, dome-shaped device with a springy and flexible rim. Inserted into the vagina by the patient, it fits over the cervix and is held in place by muscles in the vagina. The diaphragm is designed to hold spermicide in place over the cervix to kill sperm. To maximize the effectiveness of the diaphragm it should be left in place for up to 6 to 8 hours. The effectiveness for birth control ranges from between 86-94%. If one chooses to use a diaphragm, it must be fitted in a clinic. Additionally, weight changes, vaginal surgery, and pregnancy can affect the way a diaphragm fits, requiring that a medical provider check it to make sure it fits properly and to determine if a new size is needed.
Permanent Contraception (Tubal Ligation)
Tubal sterilization is a procedure that seals or removes the fallopian tubes to prevent an egg from traveling from the ovaries to the uterus. By blocking this path, sperm cannot reach the egg for fertilization. Modern techniques include using an electric current, removing a portion of the tube, or removing the entire tube—the latter of which serves as a vital risk-reduction surgery against certain cancers. Patients should be aware that this procedure provides permanent birth control and is considered non-reversible.
