Birth Control
Timothy A. Leach, MD, Inc.
OB-GYNs located in Walnut Creek, CA
Birth control is a very personal decision, and many women need some guidance in choosing the right option. Dr. Timothy A. Leach, is an OB/GYN serving the Walnut Creek, CA area who has the knowledge and experience to help.
Birth Control Q & A
What Are the Options in Birth Control Implants?
Today's leading birth control implant is called Nexplanon. The Nexplanon implant contains progestin, specifically etonogestrel, on a regular basis to prevent pregnancy. This implant is so popular today for two main reasons. First, it has an effectiveness rate of greater than 99 percent. It is also quite long lasting. Once the Nexplanon birth control implant is put in place by the OB/GYN, it can stay exactly where it is for as much as three years to prevent pregnancy.
What Are the Options in IUDs For Birth Control?
There are two different kinds of Intrauterine Devices for birth control. The copper IUD is a hormone-free birth control option, and the hormone-based IUD uses hormones to prevent pregnancy. Both of these Intrauterine Devices have effectiveness rates of greater than 99 percent. After an IUD is inserted by the OB/GYN, it generally doesn't need any maintenance until it is time for removal. The IUD is usually effective birth control for between five and ten years. If a woman using an IUD decides she is ready for children, the device can be removed earlier.
How Effective Are Oral Contraceptives?
Oral contraceptives, also called birth control pills, are highly effective (around 99 percent) if they are used perfectly. Unfortunately, most women are not able to use oral contraception with absolute perfection. This can make the effectiveness rate drop by nearly 10 percent. To get the best results from birth control pills, doses must never be skipped or delayed.
What are birth control pills?
Birth control pills contain the hormones estrogen and progestin and prevent pregnancy by stopping the body from ovulating. The pills also thicken the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg.
Talk to your provider about the type of birth control that’s best for you. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
Insurance
We accept several insurance plans from many different providers. If you do not see your provider listed here, please give us a call and we will let you know if you are covered.