Family Planning - Q&A
I’ve been on birth control pills for 15 years and do not want to have more children. What is the best method of contraception for me?
Oral contraceptives, patches and vaginal rings are great options for women during their childbearing years. For women unsure if they want more children, we recommend use of an IUD or diaphragm. And, when women are through having children, we recommend Essure, the non-incisional approach to permanent birth control.
I am over 35 years old and a smoker. Should I continue to use birth control that contains hormones?
Smoking while on any birth control pill can increase your risk of serious side effects such as heart attack, stroke, and blood clots. Women who use birth control pills should not smoke. If you are over 35 and a heavy smoker, you should speak with your physician about a birth control method that is right for you.
I have heard of a new birth control pill that allows you to have a period four times a year. Is this safe?
Some women believe that having a monthly period is a cleansing process that is important for their health. That is not true. There is no medical need for a monthly pill period and clinical studies have shown no increased health risks.
I am through having children and my husband won’t have a vasectomy. Is there anything else available for me other than having my “tubes tied”?
Until now, women considering permanent birth control had limited options. Now there is a non-incisional alternative to tubal ligation called the Essure procedure. Essure does not require incisions, does not cut, crush or burn the fallopian tubes, and does not contain hormones. It is safe and effective with a rapid recovery rate allowing patients to return to normal activities within a day or two.
