Family Planning

Family planning allows couples and individuals the ability to control the number, timing, and spacing of children. This is an essential element in the health and well-being of women.

Our providers recognize the importance of evaluating all factors which play a role in making the best choice, including:

• Effectiveness of each method
• Convenience
• Duration of action
• Reversibility and time to return of fertility
• Effect on uterine bleeding
• Frequency of side effects and adverse events
• Affordability
• Sexually transmitted disease protection
• Medical contraindications
• Medical conditions which may require closer monitoring

We consider all these factors and, with the individual patient, help them choose an optimal family planning method. Available options include:

• Oral contraceptives, both combined and progesterone only
• Injectables, such as Depo Provera
• Hormonal implants and patches
• Contraceptive vaginal rings
• Barrier methods, including condoms, diaphragms and cervical caps
• Natural family planning methods
• Permanent sterilization, including post partum and laparoscopic female tubal occlusion, and the hysteroscopic method which can usually be done in the office setting.