Contraception Management Q&A

What is contraception management?

Contraception management involves the selection, use, and oversight of birth control methods to prevent pregnancy. At Tristan E. Bickman, MD, the team offers a personalized approach to help you choose the most appropriate contraceptive method based on your medical history, lifestyle, and reproductive goals. 

This ongoing process includes regular check-ins to ensure an effective and suitable method. Call or book online today to learn more.

What are my contraception management options?

At Tristan E. Bickman, MD, you have many contraceptive options, each with its level of effectiveness and usage style. These include:

Barrier methods

These include condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps, which physically block sperm from reaching the egg.

Hormonal methods

Birth control pills, patches, injections, vaginal rings, and implants work by altering the body’s hormone levels to prevent ovulation or fertilization.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs)

Your provider inserts a T-shaped device into your uterus. The device can be hormonal or nonhormonal (copper), and offer long-term contraception.

Emergency contraception

Pills or IUDs used after unprotected sex can prevent pregnancy.

Natural methods

These involve tracking ovulation cycles and abstaining from sex during fertile periods (fertility awareness-based methods).

Permanent methods

Sterilization, such as tubal ligation for women or vasectomy for men, offers a permanent solution to preventing pregnancy.

What are my chances of getting pregnant with my contraception management options?

The effectiveness of contraception depends on the method chosen and how correctly and consistently it’s used. Here’s what you need to know:

Barrier methods

Condoms, when used perfectly, have a 98% effectiveness rate, but with typical use, this drops to around 85%.

Hormonal methods

Birth control pills, patches, and rings are about 91-99% effective depending on usage.

IUDs

Both hormonal and copper IUDs are over 99% effective.

Emergency contraception

Pills are most effective when taken within 72 hours, reducing the risk by 75-89%, while an IUD for emergency contraception is over 99% effective.

Natural methods

These methods have an effectiveness rate of around 76-88%, depending on adherence.

Permanent methods

Sterilization is over 99% effective.

Each option offers different chances of pregnancy, and discussing with a healthcare provider helps in finding the best fit.

Learn more about your contraceptive management options today by calling or booking an appointment online.