Long term birth control helps in controlling or preventing pregnancy for months or years. There are many options that can be utilized. They include:
- IUD (Intrauterine Device)
- Implant
- Birth control pills
- Patch
- Vaginal Ring
- Hormone injections
- Diaphragm
- Cervical Cap
- Condoms
Depending on your needs, the options are multiple. A healthcare provider can discuss the options in detail.
Birth control is not only utilized to help with prevention of pregnancy. For some, it may be utilized to manage periods or make periods more regular. Others will utilize them to control menorrhagia or excessive bleeding with periods. Conditions as PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) may also be treated with birth control. Birth control can also be used as a treatment for acne, dysmenorrhea or painful periods, and with symptoms of PMS (premenstrual syndrome).
Birth control does not protect against any sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) as in gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, syphilis, or HIV. Using a condom will always be advisable to prevent STDs.
If you change your mind and want to become pregnant, you may do so by discontinuing the method of birth control. When doing so, always consult a healthcare provider.
Birth control may be contraindicated in some patients, so speak to a healthcare provider to see if birth control is an option for you.