Birth Control in Overland Park

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 a gynecologist at Women’s Care Obstetrics & Gynecology.

There are many birth control options available today. The key is finding the right method that fits your lifestyle and reproductive needs. There are Reversible methods and Irreversible methods.

Our gynecologists will take the time to provide you with information regarding all available methods of birth control, and can recommendation contraception that matches your goals and lifestyle. If you are unsure of the contraceptive method best for you, contact our gynecology offices in Shawnee Mission or Overland Park, KS to meet with a provider. To schedule an appointment for more information, please call (913) 384-4990 or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Request an Appointment

Of the REVERSIBLE Methods, in the order of most effective to least effective are :

Birth Control Implant

Birth Control Type: Hormonal
Failure rate of about 0.05%

An Implant (Brand name Nexplanon) This is a small rod that is placed in your arm. It releases a hormone called Progesterone and provides pregnancy prevention for up to 3 years.

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

Birth Control Type: Hormonal
Failure rate of about 0.2-0.8%

An IUD is a contraceptive device that delivers small amounts of hormone directly to the uterus. It is a form of birth control that remains in the uterus and can last for up to 5 years. It is a small, T-shaped, plastic device that is both soft and flexible, and is put into place by a gynecologist during a visit to your OBGYN. An IUD works 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. While they are 99% effective with regards to birth control, a gynecologist can remove the device if a patient is looking to become pregnant immediately.

There are 2 main types of IUD:

•  One has a hormone called Progesterone which helps with period control in addition to birth control (Brand name Mirena or Kyleena) This type of IUD lasts for 5-8 years
• The other is a copper IUD. (Brand name Paragard) It usually affects the periods minimally and will last 10 years

The Birth Control Shot

Birth Control Type: Hormonal
Failure rate of about 6%

The Depo-Provera 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 Shawnee Mission and Overland Park. 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.

Birth Control Pills

Birth Control Type: Hormonal
Failure rate of about 9%

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, though they may be less effective for women who are overweight. 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.

Birth Control Patch

Birth Control Type: Hormonal
Failure rate of about 9%

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. 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 do not smoke. The patch can also be used to treat irregular periods, menstrual cramps, or endometriosis.

Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing)

Birth Control Type: Hormonal
Failure rate of about 9%

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.

Diaphragm

Birth Control Type: Non-Hormonal
Failure rate of about 12%

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 works.

Condoms

Birth Control Type: Non-Hormonal
Failure rate of about 21%

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.

Female Condoms

Birth Control Type: Non-Hormonal
Failure rate of about 17-23%

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.

The Cervical Cap

Birth Control Type: Non-Hormonal
Failure rate of about 17-23%

A cervical cap is a small silicone cup  that fits over the cervix and prevents sperm from fertilizing an egg.

The Sponge

Birth Control Type: Non-Hormonal
Failure rate of about 12-24%

The birth control sponge is a small piece of white plastic foam that starts working as soon as you activate the spermicide with water and put it in the vagina. The sponge can be inserted up to 24 hours before sex.

Fertility Awareness-Based Method

Birth Control Type: Non-Hormonal
Failure rate of about 24%

Fertility awareness requires training and either a barrier method or abstaining from sex during parts of the cycle where you may be more fertile.

Spermicide

Birth Control Type: Non-Hormonal
Failure rate of about 28%

Spermicide is a kind of birth control that uses chemicals to stop sperm from reaching an egg. Spermicides must be used before sex to prevent pregnancy.

Of the IRREVERSIBLE Methods there is Permanent Sterilization

Permanent Contraception (Tubal Ligation)

Birth Control Type: Non-Hormonal
Failure rate of about 0.15-0.5%

Tubal Ligation is a procedure that seals off a woman’s fallopian tubes that carry an egg from the ovaries to the uterus. By blocking these tubes, where fertilization usually occurs, sperm is unable to reach the egg to fertilize it. The procedure seals the fallopian tubes with thread, bands, clips, an electric current, or small implants. Patients should be aware that the procedure provides permanent birth control and is NOT reversible.

Vasectomy

Birth Control Type: Non-Hormonal
Failure rate of about 0.15-0.5%

A vasectomy is a form of birth control during which the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm, are cut. Vasectomies are an in-office procedure most often done by a Urologist.