Best Options for Permanent Birth Control

Perhaps you’ve expanded your family, but don’t want any more children. Or maybe you’ve decided to have just one child. In some cases, you may have determined you don’t want children at all. 

The decision of whether or not to have children or how many to have, is a deeply personal choice that deserves thoughtful consideration and respect. We just want to be sure you have the answers and compassionate care you need at this point in your life’s journey.

If you’re interested in permanent birth control, you’ll find that there are several options, from advanced, minimally invasive procedures to nonsurgical techniques. These techniques are highly effective: less than 1 out of 100 women will become pregnant one year after a sterilization procedure 

We know that all these choices can be confusing, but we pledge to provide you with the facts you need to make an informed decision. Our primary recommendation for permanent birth control is a laparoscopic tubal ligation. However, we believe the ideal method is a vasectomy for your partner.

In this blog, we’ll examine some of the most common forms of permanent birth control. We’ll also look at methods for long-term birth control without sterilization (such as an IUD). In addition, we’ll bust some popular misconceptions and myths about birth control.

What Are The Best Options for Permanent Birth Control?

Tubal ligation

Tubal ligation, or “getting your tubes tied,” is one of the most familiar forms of permanent birth control. We perform a tubal ligation in a hospital under general anesthesia, and it can be done either laparoscopically or as a minilaparotomy. During a minilaparotomy, our surgeon makes a small incision in the abdomen, brings the tubes through this incision and removes all or a section of the tubes. We find this is a good approach for postpartum women.

Vasectomy

We believe the ideal method for permanent birth control is a vasectomy for your partner. Why?

• It’s very effective. According to the American Urological Association only 2 out of 1,000 women will become pregnant in the first year after a partner’s vasectomy. 

• It can be performed under local anesthesia as an in-office procedure by a urologist.
• Typically, your partner will be able to go home the same day.
• A vasectomy does NOT increase your partner’s risk of cancer. 
• A vasectomy does NOT affect his sense of orgasm.

If your partner has a vasectomy, you should realize that men will still need an estimated 15 to 20 ejaculations to ensure any remaining sperm are cleared from their semen. This takes roughly three months. It’s important for your partner to follow-up with his physician to ensure that his semen no longer contains sperm.

If you and your partner change your mind and decide you want to have children, most vasectomies can be reversed. However, it may take one year after the reversal for you to become pregnant.

Questions to consider before a sterilization procedure

We believe that open communication is vital when considering permanent birth control, and we welcome the opportunity to speak to you and your partner and answer any questions.

Some points to consider are:

• While you may be ready for a sterilization procedure, is your partner truly supportive of this?
• Are you considering permanent sterilization just because your partner wants it?
• Do you have any underlying medical issues we should consider?
• If you have a change in life circumstances – if you become divorced or widowed—is there a possibility that you might want to have children with another sexual partner?
• Have you discussed all the options you are considering with us?

Not sure if permanent birth control is right for you? Consider an IUD

If you’re not sure you want to undergo a procedure, and you’re not happy with your current form of birth control, you may wish to consider a long-lasting but reversible form of prevention such as an IUD. 

We favor this method above sterilization because it is less invasive and is an excellent form of contraception. After the first year of using the IUD, fewer than 1 in 100 women will get pregnant, and it is 20 times more effective than birth control pills, the patch or the ring.

In fact, IUDs are becoming more and more popular due to their convenience and effectiveness. Next, we’ll provide all the information you need to know if you’re considering an IUD.

How Does an IUD Work? Your Complete Guide to IUDs

IUDs are one of the most popular forms of birth control in America. This is mainly due to the convenience of not having to worry about birth control for up to 10 years.

However, many women may still wonder: How does an IUD work?

We’ve got all the information you need on IUDs as an effective form of birth control and how to determine if it’s the right choice for you.

We’re also tackling some questions that, well, may be a bit embarrassing (although there’s no reason to be embarrassed when you’re talking to us about your health!)

“We believe in an individual approach to medicine, and we know that one type of birth control isn’t right for every patient,” said Dr. Hardison. “However, we have found that IUDs satisfy the needs of many patients, and we are happy to help them as partners in their care.”

We Answer Your FAQs About IUDs

What Is an IUD?

An IUD (“intrauterine device”) is a tiny, plastic device—about the size of a quarter– that we insert into your uterus. There are two categories of IUDs, one that is copper and another that releases hormones.

IUDs have a much better track record for preventing pregnancy than other types of birth control; there is less than one pregnancy per 100 women in a year among those who use IUDs.

How Does an IUD Work?

The two different types of IUDs work differently. The one that is covered with copper releases copper ions. These ions prevent the sperm from moving and therefore reaching the egg.

The hormone-releasing IUDs are coated with the hormone levonorgestrel, a type of progestin. This thins your uterine lining while, at the same time, thickening your cervical mucus, making it extremely difficult for sperm to reach your eggs.

None of the IUDs cause abortions.

How Effective Is an IUD?

The IUD is more than 99 percent effective—meaning that over the course of a year, less than 1 out of 100 couples using an IUD will have an unplanned pregnancy.

When Does an IUD Start Working?

This depends upon the type of IUD. The copper IUD works three to four hours after it is inserted.

For hormonal IUDs, you need to wait seven days for it to be effective. This may also be affected by when your last period was, so be sure to ask us about it when you have your insertion.

How Long Does an IUD Last?

Again, this depends upon the type of IUD you get. Copper IUDs are effective for 10 years. The hormone/progestin IUDs can work for three to six years, depending upon the brand.

Of course, if you change your mind or decide you want to get pregnant, we can remove it at any time. You should not attempt to remove the IUD yourself.

What Are IUD Strings & How Do They Work?

IUDs have thin strings at the end of them. These strings will be used to remove the IUD when it’s time to insert a new one or when you’ve decided you want to get pregnant. These strings will rest at the top of your vagina to let you know that the IUD is there.

We think it’s a good idea to check it periodically to see that the IUD is still in place. If you’re not sure how to reach them, just let us know. We’ll be glad to explain.

And don’t worry; It would be very difficult to accidentally pull out your IUD. However, we do advise you not to tug on the strings because we don’t want the IUD to shift.

What Do IUD Strings Feel Like?

In many cases, their texture has been compared to light fishing line.

How Long Does It Take for IUD Strings to Soften?

Often, the strings begin to soften within the first week.

What If I Can’t Find the Strings?

Don’t panic. Sometimes they may be harder to feel because they do tend to soften the longer you have the IUD. However, if you can’t seem to find them, schedule an appointment with us so we can determine if your IUD has shifted.

Can an IUD Fall Out?

This is actually very, very rare. On the unusual occasions that it does happen, it’s more likely to occur in those who haven’t had children, those who have an unusually shaped uterus or those who have fibroids.

Can a Guy Feel an IUD?

Neither you nor your partner should be able to feel an IUD because it rests inside your uterus. However, the removal strings of an IUD can be felt if you stick your finger inside your vagina. It’s possible that your partner may feel these when you’re having sex.

If it becomes a problem or puts a damper on your sex life, just remember that these strings will eventually soften over time. If it still creates issues in the bedroom, please contact us so we can help you.

Is It Painful to Get an IUD?

We’ll be honest—getting an IUD is not fun.

But despite all the “horror stories” you may have seen on the internet, most women say IUD insertion just feels like a really bad menstrual cramp. You’ll likely feel a hard cramp as the IUD is inserted, but the good news is that the discomfort only lasts a short time.

Most women say the discomfort is mild to moderate, so it may help to take an over-the-counter painkiller an hour before the insertion. It is also easier and more comfortable to place an IUD during your period.

The entire process from beginning to end takes less than 15 minutes.

If you have concerns about what it will feel like to have an IUD inserted, then just ask us. We’re here for you and want you to feel free to ask us any questions. We can discuss additional medications or techniques that may be appropriate for you specifically when we have our consultation.

Am I at Risk of Getting Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

You may have heard something about the risk of developing infections from using IUDs. We want to set the record straight.

First, a little bit of history. There was a type of IUD called a Dalkon Shield that was used way back in the 1970s and 80s. Women who used this did show an increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, which can affect fertility. Obviously, this type of IUD was taken off the market.

That was then. This is now.

IUDs have come a very long way since then. In fact, an IUD is one of the safest forms of contraception out there, and IUD effectiveness is better than many other forms of birth control, which is why it is growing in popularity.

Will an IUD Affect My Fertility?

No. That’s one of the great things about using an IUD. If you decide you want to get pregnant, all you have to do is schedule an appointment for the IUD to be removed. Afterward, if you don’t have any other issues that could affect your fertility, you should be able to get pregnant.

Can You Use a Tampon With an IUD?

Yes. However, you’ll need to wait about 24 hours after getting your IUD to use a tampon. But it won’t change the IUD at all, and it won’t limit the IUD’s effectiveness. Don’t worry about dislodging the strings, either.

Does a Copper IUD Cause Weight Gain?

No, There is no evidence of weight gain associated with a copper IUD.

What Can You Not Do After Getting an IUD?

For at least 24 hours after the IUD insertion, you should avoid vaginal intercourse, swimming, tampon use, baths and menstrual cup use. Remember, if you’ve opted for the hormonal IUD, you’ll need back-up contraception to prevent getting pregnant in the first seven days after the IUD is placed.

How Much Does an IUD Cost?

Typically, insurance will cover the cost for an IUD, although you should speak with your insurance company to get all the details to ensure what brands of IUDs are covered.

What Are the Negative Side Effects of an IUD?

Are There Copper IUD Side Effects?

Many women may wonder if the copper IUD has any side effects. Periods do tend to be 1-2 days longer and a little heavier when using a copper IUD. You may experience some cramps or light bleeding between periods.

However, if for some reason, you experience severe menstrual pain and heavy bleeding, please schedule an appointment with us so we can accurately determine if these are side effects due to the copper IUD or if there is another cause.

Are There Hormonal IUD Side Effects?

In certain cases, you may experience:

• Headache
• Tender breasts
• Acne
• Irregular bleeding (however, this generally improves within six months of use)
• Moodiness
• Cramping

How To Determine If an IUD Is Right for You

Of course, each individual is different, and while an IUD may not be the best choice for everybody, the IUD’s effectiveness is the main reason it’s becoming one of the most popular forms of birth control.

IUDs are ideal for those who don’t want to take a pill every day or those who don’t want an implant. It’s also much more effective than condoms, birth control pills, natural planning and even diaphragms.

We would like to remind you that, while IUDs are a great, effective choice for birth control, they do not prevent sexually transmitted infections. You’ll still need to use a condom to avoid those.

We Offer IUD Insertion and Removal in Chapel Hill and Durham

Interested in an IUD as a form of convenient birth control? We’ve got the answers you need, and we’re happy to provide additional information that can help you make a decision. We’ll also remove your IUD if you decide you want to have children or if the IUD is expired and you want another one. Want to know more? Contact us to schedule an appointment.

We realize that there are still many misconceptions surrounding birth control, and unreliable online information doesn’t help the situation. We want to set the record straight, so next, we’ll examine these common myths about birth control.

6 Birth Control Myths You Should Never Believe

“If I douche with Coke, I won’t get pregnant.”

Some birth control myths seem silly. In reference to the one above, douching – with anything – will not kill sperm. 

Still, many convincing contraception myths remain. Understanding the truth about birth control methods—such as an IUD or Implanon— can help you separate fact from fiction. As a result, you can take a more active role in your health care.

“Today, more medical information is available online, and unfortunately, not all of it is from reliable sources,” said Dr. Martinelli. “When these include birth control myths, it can affect your plans for having—or not having—a baby. This is why your local OBGYN remains your number one source of medical information. We encourage you to ask us questions, no matter how embarrassing they may seem.”

We’ll take a look at some of these common misconceptions and give you the truth.

6 Common Birth Control Myths

1. If I Don’t Have an Orgasm, I Can’t Get Pregnant

All that is required to get pregnant is that your partner’s sperm (pre-ejaculate and ejaculate) fertilizes an egg. Eggs are released as part of your regular menstrual cycle. Therefore, an egg is released whether you have an orgasm or not.

Your sexual health is important to us. If you’re having difficulty having an orgasm due to painful sex, vaginal dryness or other issues, please talk to us. We know satisfying sex is an important part of intimacy. Don’t ever be embarrassed to ask questions. 

2. I Can’t Get Pregnant When I’m Breastfeeding

This one needs a bit of a caveat. Simply breastfeeding is not an effective form of birth control. Three things reduce the probability of conceiving while nursing.

• First, you have to be within six months of delivery.
• Second, you must have not had a menstrual cycle.
• Third, your baby must only be feeding on breast milk without any soft food. 

But if you really don’t want to get pregnant, use a second form of contraception like condoms or the progesterone-only pill. 

3. I Can’t Get Pregnant if I’m on Top or If We Have Sex Standing Up

The “logic” behind this method is that certain positions will cause sperm to slide out of the vagina.

However, after a man ejaculates, the sperm are not only deposited deep into the vagina but they also immediately start swimming through your cervix. 

4. Pulling Out is An Effective Birth Control Method

This isn’t very effective contraception. Even if your partner is able to pull out before he ejaculates, some of it can be released before he climaxes. 

If you’re looking for statistics, out of 100 women who use this method, as many as 28 will get pregnant. 

This is significantly higher than the number of pregnancies that occur when on Implanon or having an IUD. 

5. The Birth Control Pill Is Immediately Effective

We strongly encourage patients to use a back-up form of contraception during the first month of using the pill. This is particularly important if your period was irregular prior to starting the pill.

Of course, the pill only works if you take it consistently and as directed.

If you have questions about what method of birth control is right for you—such as an IUD, Implanon or others—please contact us. 

6. I Can’t Get Pregnant if I Shower or Urinate After Sex

After intercourse, the sperm have already made their way through the cervix into the uterus.

If you have released an egg, then you can get pregnant—no matter how much showering you do after the fact.

What Type of Birth Control is Right for Me?

Deciding upon which type of birth control  to use is a very personal decision. We’re here for you to provide information on all your options, and we’ll work with you to determine what would be the best choice.

Here are some things you should consider when selecting a method:

• How soon you want to get pregnant—a few years or never
• The success of each different method
• Any potential side effects
• Your comfort level of using this method
• Your overall health

It may be helpful to have some questions in mind before your next exam. We’ll be glad to answer them. 

Some long-acting, reversible birth control methods can be a good option for many women. 

See Why We’re the Leading Provider of Choice for Triangle Women

For more than four decades, we’ve helped women in all stages of life on their health care journeys, whether that included having a baby, getting contraception or going through menopause. 

 We want you to know that we take time to get to know you in an environment that combines the best technological equipment with personalized attention. We would welcome the opportunity to care for you. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.