What is the birth control pill?

The birth control pill contains hormones that prevent pregnancy. You have to take the pill every day at the same time each day. There are many types of birth control pills. Dr. Gueye can help you choose the right one for you.

​

What is the skin patch?

The skin patch is a small (1.75 square inch) adhesive patch that is worn on the skin. It contains hormones that prevent pregnancy. The hormones are slowly released into your body through the skin. A new patch is worn for a week at a time for 3 weeks in a row. During the fourth week, a patch is not worn, and you will have your menstrual period.

 

What is the vaginal ring?

The vaginal ring is a flexible plastic ring that you insert into the upper vagina. It releases hormones that prevent pregnancy. The hormones are slowly released into your body. It is worn inside the vagina for 21 days and then removed for 7 days. During those 7 days, you will have your menstrual period. Then you insert a new ring.

 

What is the birth control shot?

This shot is given in the upper arm or buttock every 3 months. It contains hormones that prevent pregnancy. It is important to know that the long-term use of the shot can weaken your bones. Dr. Gueye can help you decide if this may still be the best option for you. 

 

What is the implant?

The implant is a small plastic rod about the size of a matchstick that Dr. Gueye inserts under the skin of the upper arm. It releases a hormone that prevents pregnancy. The implant is approved for up to 3 years of use.

 

What is the IUD?

The intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped plastic device that is inserted into and left inside the uterus. The IUD must be inserted and removed by a health care professional that is experienced with this due to the high rate of complications with inexperienced practitioners. 

Hormonal IUDs release a small amount of a hormone called progestin into the uterus. Different brands are approved for up to 3 to 6 years of use. The copper IUD releases a small amount of copper into the uterus. It is approved for up to 10 years of use.

 

How do IUDs work?

IUDs work mainly by preventing fertilization of the egg by the sperm. The progestin in the hormonal IUD thickens the cervical mucus, which makes it harder for sperm to enter the uterus and reach an egg, and keeps the lining of the uterus thin. The copper released by the copper IUD stops sperm from moving and reaching an egg.

​

There are many more birth control options to choose from and Dr. Gueye can help you choose the best one for you.