Birth Control Options in Boston, MA

Today, there are many options as it relates to birth control. To select the one that is best suited to your needs and those of your partner, you should consult with one of our obstetrician-gynecologists. Call (617) 983-7003 to schedule an appointment at our office in Boston, MA today!

What is Contraceptive Counseling?

A birth control counseling appointment is a consultation to help navigate through the various contraceptive options, discuss personal preferences regarding the methods, and ultimately select the most suitable option based on the patient’s current needs. During these visits we help patients get answers to important questions, discuss short-term and long-term goals, and get personalized advice.

We hold all our contraceptive counseling sessions within a private office setting, and any information patients share with us is safeguarded by patient-provider confidentiality.

Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills, commonly referred to as the pill, are a form of oral contraception that generally contains two hormones, estrogen and progestin and taken daily to prevent a woman’s ovaries from releasing eggs. They also help to prevent pregnancy by causing the cervical mucus to thicken. This blocks sperm from fertilizing an egg. Birth Control pills are safe, effective and convenient. For women who are very overweight, the pill may be less effective. Additionally, vomiting and/or diarrhea may keep the pill from working properly to prevent pregnancy. If a woman is concerned about this, a backup method of birth control should be used.

IUD Insertion

What Is an IUD?

An intrauterine device is a small plastic T-shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. An IUD is slightly larger than a quarter and fits inside your uterus. This method of contraception is a popular option for women as they are long lasting, easily reversible, safe, and over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Mirena^®

Mirena is a hormonal IUD that prevents pregnancy for up to 8 years and can also treat heavy periods. It inhibits sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg, thins the uterine lining, and thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. Mirena is recommended for women who have had at least one child.

Paraguard^®

Paragard is the only copper IUD, and it can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. It works by interfering with sperm movement, egg fertilization, and may prevent implantation. Paragard is hormone free and can be used whether or not you have had a child.

Birth Control Implant

NEXPLANON^® Insertion

The birth control implant, under the names Nexplanon and Implanon, is a device that is implanted under the skin and releases progestin into the bloodstream. This tiny, thin rod is implanted into your arm, and patients are protected from pregnancy for up to 5 years.

Non-Hormonal Forms of Birth Control in Boston

Condoms

Condoms are a barrier form of birth control that physically blocks the sperm from entering the vagina. They are the only form of protection that can help to stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like HIV and prevent pregnancy. A condom is a latex or polyurethane sheath that is closed at one end and fits over a man’s penis. Condoms are also available for females. These have a flexible ring at either end. One end is closed and inserted into the vagina and the other end is open with the ring remaining outside the vagina. To help assure protection, users should read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Diaphragm

A diaphragm is a thin rubber dome-shaped device with a springy and flexible rim. Inserted into the vagina by the patient, it fits over the cervix and is held in place by muscles in the vagina. The diaphragm is designed to hold spermicide in place over the cervix to kill sperm. To maximize the effectiveness of the diaphragm it should be left in place for up to 6 to 8 hours. The effectiveness of birth control ranges from 86-94%. If one chooses to use a diaphragm it must be fitted in a clinic. Additionally, weight changes, vaginal surgery, and pregnancy can affect the way a diaphragm fits requiring that a medical provider check it to make sure it fits properly and to determine if a new size is needed.

Permanent Contraception

Tubal ligation is a non-surgical procedure that seals off a woman’s fallopian tubes that carry an egg from the ovaries to the uterus. By blocking these tubes, where fertilization usually occurs, sperm is unable to reach the egg to fertilize it. Patients should be aware that the procedure provides permanent birth control and is NOT reversible.