Temporary Birth Control

Feel empowered by all of the options you have to control your fertility and to prevent pregnancy. Turn to Rock Hill GYN & OB for temporary birth control options that allow you to live your life and start a family when you are ready. We have locations in both Rock Hill and Fort Mill, SC

What is Temporary Birth Control?

Birth control is any method used to prevent pregnancy while remaining sexually active. There are various forms of contraception available. Let’s explore them here:

BIRTH CONTROL PILLS

Birth control pills, commonly referred to as “the pill”, are a form of oral contraception taken daily that generally contains two hormones (estrogen and progestin) to prevent a woman’s ovaries from releasing eggs. They also help to prevent pregnancy by causing the cervical mucus to thicken. This blocks sperm from fertilizing an egg. Birth Control pills are safe, effective, and convenient. For women who are very overweight, the pill may be less effective. Additionally, vomiting and/or diarrhea may keep the pill from working properly to prevent pregnancy. If a woman is concerned about this, a backup method of birth control should be used.

CONDOMS

Condoms are a barrier form of birth control that physically blocks the sperm from entering the vagina. They are the only form of protection that can prevent pregnancy and help to stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like HIV. 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. These 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.

MIRENA® (IUD)

Mirena® IUD (Intrauterine Device) is a contraceptive device that delivers small amounts of hormones (levonorgestrel) directly to the uterus. It is a form of birth control that eliminates the need to take daily pills because it remains in the uterus and can last for up to 5 years. This small “T” shaped plastic device is both soft and flexible and is put into place by a gynecologist or healthcare provider during an office visit. The Mirena® IUD is over 99% effective. It works continuously through several different actions that include thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, inhibiting the sperm from reaching or fertilizing an egg, and making the lining of the uterus thin. When a patient wants to become pregnant, a healthcare provider can remove the device and the patient can try to become pregnant immediately.

ORTHO EVRA® PATCH

Used correctly, the Evra® patch is as effective as birth control pills in preventing pregnancy. The Evra® patch is a form of birth control that a patient wears on the skin. It resembles a small band aid. The hormones it contains (estrogen and progestin) are similar to those used in birth control pills but are absorbed transdermally 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. Since the patch contains a dosage which is 60% higher than that delivered by the pills, there is the risk of side effects such as blood clots. Because of this, it is essential that patients using the patch not smoke. In addition to preventing pregnancy, it can also be used to treat irregular periods, menstrual cramps, or endometriosis.

NUVARING®

NuvaRing® is a soft and flexible ring that is worn in the vagina. The key benefit of the NuvaRing is that a patient does not need to take it daily to get a complete month’s protection. In a given 1-month period, NuvaRing® must be inserted into the vagina, removed after 3 weeks, and a new ring inserted no more than 7 days later. While the hormones it contains (estrogen and progestin) are similar to those used in birth control pills, unlike birth control pills, they are absorbed directly into the blood stream through the vaginal wall, delivering a consistent level of medication which improves effectiveness and limits side effects. Oral contraceptives on the other hand, differ in that they take time to be absorbed into the blood stream causing peaks and valleys in the hormone blood levels.

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 a 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.

Schedule Your Appointment

Access temporary birth control options through contraceptive counseling at Rock Hill GYN & OB. We always place your reproductive goals first. Contact us to schedule an appointment.