The Power of Choice: Contraception And Family Planning
by PremierOBGYN
Deciding when and how to grow your family is one of your most important choices.
But with so many contraception methodsThis link leads to the Contraceptive Counselling page available, making an informed decision can feel overwhelming.
At Premier OBGYN of Ridgewood, NJ, we believe every woman deserves the knowledge and support to make the best choices for her health and future.
Here, we’ll walk you through the essentials of contraception and family planning, addressing common concerns and empowering you to take charge of your reproductive health.
Available contraception methods
Understanding your options is the first step in making an informed choice. You want your contraception method to be compatible with your health and lifestyle.
Contraception methods vary in effectiveness, convenience, and side effects.
Some of the most common options include:
- Birth control pills: A daily pill that regulates hormones to prevent ovulation.
- IUDs (Intrauterine Devices): Small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
- Condoms: A barrier method that also protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Implants: A small rod inserted under the skin that releases hormones to prevent ovulation.
- Injections: A hormone shot that provides pregnancy protection for about three months.
- Emergency contraception: Pills or a copper IUD that can be used after unprotected sex.
At Premier OBGYN of RidgewoodThis link leads to Home page, NJ, Dr. Elina ZeldinaThis link leads to the Doctors’ page, MD, can help you understand which method fits your lifestyle and health needs.
Check out the pros and cons of each to help you learn more about each method and make an informed decision.
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Birth Control Pills
Pros:
- Highly effective when taken correctly (over 99% with perfect use).
- Can regulate menstrual cycles and reduce menstrual cramps.
- May reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers.
- Can improve acne.
Cons:
- Must be taken daily at the same time, which can be difficult for some.
- May cause side effects such as nausea, weight gain, and mood changes.
- Do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Require a prescription.
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IUDs (Intrauterine Devices)
Pros:
- Long-term protection (3 to 10 years, depending on the type).
- Low maintenance; once inserted, no daily action is required.
- Highly effective (over 99%).
- Can be hormonal (reducing menstrual flow) or non-hormonal.
Cons:
- Require a healthcare provider for insertion and removal.
- Can cause discomfort during insertion.
- Potential for side effects like spotting or cramping.
- Do not protect against STIs.
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Condoms
Pros:
- Provides protection against STIs as well as pregnancy.
- Available over-the-counter without a prescription.
- No side effects (unless allergic to latex).
- Easy to use and access.
Cons:
- Must be used correctly every time to be effective.
- Can break or slip during intercourse.
- Some people may experience reduced sensitivity.
- Single-use only, so must be replaced each time.
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Implants
Pros:
- Long-term protection (up to three years).
- Highly effective (over 99%).
- Low maintenance; no daily action required.
- Can be removed at any time if pregnancy is desired.
Cons:
- Require a healthcare provider for insertion and removal.
- Can cause irregular periods, especially in the first year.
- May cause side effects such as headaches, mood changes, or weight gain.
- Do not protect against STIs.
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Injections
Pros:
- Provide three months of protection with one shot.
- Highly effective when shots are received on schedule.
- Can reduce menstrual cramps and lighten periods.
- May reduce the risk of uterine cancer.
Cons:
- Require a visit to a healthcare provider every three months.
- Can cause side effects such as weight gain, headaches, and mood changes.
- May cause a delay in the return of normal fertility after stopping.
- Do not protect against STIs.
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Emergency Contraception
Pros:
- Can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
- Available over-the-counter for most options (e.g., Plan B).
- Effective within 3-5 days after unprotected sex (sooner is better).
- Provides a last-chance option to prevent pregnancy.
Cons:
- Less effective than regular contraception methods.
- Should not be used as a regular contraception method.
- May cause side effects like nausea, fatigue, or irregular bleeding.
- Does not protect against STIs.
Addressing common contraception concerns
Many women have concerns about contraception, from side effects to effectiveness.
It’s important to know that most methods are safe and effective when used correctly.
For instance, birth control pills have a success rate of more than 99% with perfect use.
However, if you forget to take them regularly, their effectiveness drops.
Concerns about weight gain, mood changes, and long-term effects are common.
While some women may experience these side effects, they are not universal. Every body is different and reacts uniquely.
Dr. ZeldinaThis link leads to the Doctors’ page at Premier OBGYN can discuss your concerns and help you find a method to minimize risks while meeting your needs.
Promoting open communication between partners
Family planning is not a solo endeavor, and we encourage partners to be actively involved, not just for the educational aspect but also for support.
Open communication with your partner is vital to ensuring both of you are comfortable and informed about your choices.
Discussing your family goals, contraceptive preferences, and any concerns can strengthen your relationship and make the process smoother.
Premier OBGYN in Ridgewood encourages couples to attend appointments together. This way, both partners can ask questions and learn about available options, leading to a more supportive and informed decision-making process.
Supporting women in achieving their desired family size and spacing
Every woman has different family planning goals, whether you’re just starting to think about having children or spacing out your next pregnancy.
Contraception can help you control the timing of your pregnancies, giving you the freedom to plan your family according to your needs.
At Premier OBGYN of Ridgewood, NJ, Dr. Elina Zeldina, MD, offers personalized care to support your family planning goals.
Whether you want to avoid pregnancy for now or are planning your next child, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Empowering women through education
Knowledge is power, and understanding your options is your superpower when it comes to family planning.
Education about contraception and family planning enables women to make decisions that align with their health, values, and lifestyle.
We are committed to providing the resourcesThis link leads to Patient Resources page you need to make informed choices.
Get the support you need
Choosing the right contraceptive method is a personal decision, and having the right support can make all the difference.
Our officeThis link leads to the Office page is about providing you with the best health care and options for our patients.
We’re here to support you, answer your questions, and help you gain confidence whether you are planning to have a child or choose to wait.
At Premier OBGYN in Ridgewood, NJ, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate your options and make the best choice for your future.
You can feel confident in your family planning decisions with comprehensive care and expert guidance from Dr. Elina Zeldina, MD.
Or:
- Call us at: 201-639-3900This link opens an application to make a phonecallThis link
- Send us a messageThis link leads to Contact pageThis link
We are located in Ridgewood, NJ and welcome people from our neighboring areas such as Westwood, Wyckoff, Allendale, Glen Rock, Haledon, Franklin Lakes, Harrington Park, and Fair Lawn, NJ.
