The right birth control should fit your health, preferences, and plans. Whether you want a daily pill, a longer-lasting method, or a hormone-free option, Davie OBGYN can help you compare the choices without pressure.
Understanding Your Birth Control Choices
How does birth control work?
Different methods prevent pregnancy in different ways. They may stop ovulation, block sperm, or make it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
Options include:
- Pills, patches, and vaginal rings: Used on a regular schedule.
- IUDs and the arm implant: Long-acting methods that can be removed.
- The birth control shot: Given at scheduled intervals.
- Condoms and other barrier methods: Used around the time of sex.
- Fertility awareness methods: Require careful cycle tracking and consistent use.
- Permanent contraception: Intended for people who do not want future pregnancies.
IUDs and implants are more than 99% effective. Most methods do not protect against sexually transmitted infections; condoms help reduce that risk. Compare methods using the CDC’s birth control guide.
Concerns to discuss—and red flags
Tell us about irregular bleeding, side effects, missed pills, migraines, smoking, high blood pressure, or a history of blood clots.
When to get urgent care: Chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, or a swollen painful leg requires urgent medical care.
Why a clinical consultation helps
A visit allows us to review medication interactions, check blood pressure when needed, and discuss your priorities. A pelvic exam or Pap test is not routinely required to start birth control pills. IUD placement does require a pelvic examination. CDC guidance outlines the necessary assessments.
What to Expect at Your Visit
- Discuss when—or whether—you want pregnancy.
- Review your medical history and current medications.
- Compare effectiveness, side effects, cost, and ease of use.
- Plan how to start or switch methods, including any temporary backup protection.
Ultrasound is available on site but is not a routine requirement for choosing contraception.
A Personalized Birth Control Plan
Hormonal IUDs may lighten periods. Copper IUDs avoid hormones but may increase bleeding or cramps. Estrogen-containing methods may be unsuitable with migraine with aura, certain clotting risks, or other conditions. Progestin-only methods offer alternatives for many patients.
You can also discuss emergency contraception after unprotected sex or a method failure. Contact a clinician or pharmacist promptly; options are time-sensitive. The Office on Women’s Health compares benefits and risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which birth control is best?
The best option depends on your health and what matters most to you.
Can I use birth control if I have never been pregnant?
Yes. Many methods, including IUDs, may be appropriate.
Will birth control permanently affect my fertility?
Reversible methods do not cause permanent infertility. Fertility may take longer to return after the shot than after some other methods.
Can I switch if I dislike the side effects?
Yes. We can help you change methods while avoiding a gap in protection.
Local Guidance, Personal Choice
Davie OBGYN provides board-certified contraceptive counseling for patients in Davie, Cooper City, Weston, Plantation, and Pembroke Pines.
For an emergency, call 911. Not sure what you need? See our patient resource center.
Medically reviewed by Rahil Malik, MD, FACOG, board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist. Last reviewed: September 26, 2026. This page is general information and does not replace a visit with your doctor.