Choosing the right birth control is a deeply personal decision — and one that should be informed, supported, and individualized. There is no single “best” method for all women. Instead, the best birth control is the one that fits your health profile, your lifestyle, and your comfort level.
At IVANA MD, we work collaboratively with women to explore options with clarity and confidence.
Start by Considering Your Priorities
Ask yourself:
- Do I want hormonal or non-hormonal?
- Daily method or “set it and forget it”?
- Do I want pregnancy to be possible soon?
- Am I sensitive to hormones?
- Do I want lighter or fewer periods?
- Am I willing to tolerate possible spotting at first?
- How important is cycle predictability?
Your answers shape your ideal method.
Understanding the Types of Birth Control
There are multiple categories:
1. IUDs (Intrauterine Devices)
Placed in the uterus — lasts 3–10 years.
Hormonal IUD (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla)
- releases progestin
- often leads to lighter or absent periods
- reduces cramps
- effective for women with heavy bleeding
Good for women who want:
✔ convenience
✔ lighter periods
✔ long-term reversible contraception
Copper IUD (Paragard)
- non-hormonal
- can last up to 10 years
- may increase bleeding/cramps initially
Good for women who want:
✔ hormone-free option
✔ long-lasting birth control
✔ natural cycle maintenance
2. The Pill (Combination or Progestin-only)
- taken daily
- can regulate cycles
- may reduce acne
- can ease PMS
Challenges:
- must remember daily
- may not be ideal for women with certain health risks
3. Contraceptive Implant (Nexplanon)
- tiny rod in the arm
- lasts up to 3 years
- may cause irregular bleeding at first
- very low failure rate
4. Contraceptive Patch
- applied weekly
- estrogen + progesterone
- can regulate cycles
- similar benefits to the pill
- may not be suitable for women over a certain weight or age
5. Contraceptive Ring (NuvaRing)
- flexible ring placed in vagina
- changed monthly
- steady hormone release
- lighter periods
- easier than daily pill
6. Condoms
- protect against STDs
- can be used with other methods
- no hormones
- user-dependent
7. Fertility Awareness / Natural Cycle Tracking
- tracking ovulation + cycle
- requires discipline and accurate logging
- can be effective when done correctly
- no hormones
8. Permanent Methods
- tubal ligation
- partner vasectomy
For women certain they do not want future pregnancies.
Hormonal vs. Non-Hormonal: Understanding the Difference
Hormonal birth control can:
- reduce cramps
- minimize PMS
- shorten or eliminate periods
- reduce endometriosis pain
- prevent ovarian cyst formation
- clear acne
But may cause:
- mood changes
- breast tenderness
- headaches
- spotting
Non-hormonal birth control:
- allows natural cycle
- zero hormonal side effects
- good for women sensitive to hormones
But may result in:
- heavier bleeding with copper IUD
- less ability to control PMS or cramps
Discussing Your Health History Matters
Your provider will ask about:
- migraines
- blood clotting risk
- smoking status
- high blood pressure
- PCOS
- endometriosis
- fibroids
- depression/anxiety
- thyroid disorder
These conditions can influence your safest and best contraceptive options.
Birth Control and Libido
Some women find that hormones affect sexual desire.
- Some pills may decrease libido
- Hormonal IUDs often have minimal effect
- Copper IUDs leave hormones unchanged
Your sexual comfort and confidence matter. This is a valid consideration.
Period Preferences Matter Too
Do you want:
- regular predictable periods?
- lighter periods?
- fewer or no periods?
- natural ovulation?
Some women prefer a predictable cycle.
Others love the freedom of minimal bleeding.
Your preference is valid.
Trying a Method Is not a Lifetime Commitment
You can:
- switch methods
- adjust dosages
- remove IUDs or implants
- request a different pill formulation
- try contraception-free cycles
Birth control should adapt to you — not the other way around.
Myths About Birth Control
❗ Myth: Birth control causes infertility
Not true. Fertility returns after stopping.
❗ Myth: IUD insertion is unbearable
Most women describe it as a brief cramp.
❗ Myth: Birth control causes weight gain
Some women retain water initially — but not permanent fat gain.
❗ Myth: Hormones “mess up” your body
In many cases, they regulate and support reproductive health.
❗ Myth: Birth control is only for avoiding pregnancy
It also helps with:
- PCOS
- acne
- endometriosis
- heavy bleeding
- cycle regulation
The Importance of Professional Guidance
At IVANA MD, we offer a judgment-free consultation that considers:
- your health conditions
- your symptoms
- your intuition
- your lifestyle
- your reproductive goals
- your comfort
This is not a one-size-fits-all decision.
You deserve options and expert guidance.
Final Thoughts
Your body, your choice. The right birth control method should support your well-being, fit your life, and align with your health needs. When you feel informed, empowered, and respected — you make choices confidently.
Ready to explore the best birth control option for you?
Schedule your women’s health appointment with IVANA MD
4220 Cartwright Road, Suite 201,
Missouri City, Texas 77459
