Contraception and Birth Control Options
Deciding on a method of birth control is an important choice for any woman. There are a number of different options available ranging from a daily pill to medical procedures that permanently prevent pregnancy. At Metropong Gynecology, our focus is to help you decide which method will best fit your lifestyle and comfort level.
We offer the best and most reliable range of birth control options in Johannesburg, and consider a variety of medical and personal factors to help you decide, including age, overall health, frequency of sexual intercourse, number of active sexual partners, and whether you desire to have children in the future.
Read below for a brief description of each method of birth control offered at our facility.
Please contact us today Via WhatsApp to schedule an appointment and discuss your birth control options with a certified gynecologist.
Birth Control Pills The birth control pill is not appropriate for every woman and medical screening is required. The pill comes is different dosages and prescriptions. Once the medical screening is passed, the woman will be given the proper prescription. It is important to follow the prescription instructions precisely so that the pill is effective. While the pill is an effective measure in preventing pregnancy, it does not provide protection against the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
diaphragm A diaphragm is a soft, rubber cap-shaped device which works as a barrier to prevent a man’s sperm from entering a woman’s uterus. In order to be fully effective, it must be used with a spermicidal cream or jelly. After spermicide is applied, the diaphragm can be inserted in the vagina up to one hour before intercourse, and must remain in place for at least six hours after intercourse. If sex is to be had again within the six hours, more spermicide must be added to the already in place diaphragm. To remove the diaphragm, the woman pulls it out gently. With proper use, the diaphragm is about 90% effective. The diaphragm or the spermicide used alone is not very effective. Diaphragms must be properly fit and checked by a health care provider at least once a year. If the diaphragm does not fit properly, it will not be effective in preventing pregnancy. Additionally, the owner must check the diaphragm by running water through it to see if any tiny holes have developed. If water can leak through, then it is not effective.
IUD The Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a Small, “T-shaped” device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. The IUD is inserted into the uterus by a health care provider, where once in place, it can remain there for several years. IUDs are one of the most effective forms of birth control available. Less than 1 out of 100 women will get pregnant each year if they use the ParaGard or the Mirena IUD. Women who have uterine, fallopian, ovarian, cervical or vaginal irregularities may not use this form of contraception. In some cases, the IUD may present certain problems. Insertion can cause painful menstrual cramps, and women with an IUD may experience more severe menstrual cramps, and longer and heavier periods. Pain relievers can usually reduce bleeding, cramping, and other discomforts. If they are severe and do not seem to lessen, tell your health care provider. Women with an IUD may be more prone to certain infections. The risk of pregnancy while using a ParaGard or Mirena IUD is very low. But if the IUD slips out of place, pregnancy can happen. If you become pregnant, have the IUD removed as soon as you find out that you are pregnant. It’s important to pay attention to any symptoms you might have after starting the IUD and to monitor your body’s reaction during the use of it.
Permanent Birth Control TUBAL LIGATION Dubai Gynecology offers our patients Tubal ligation as one form of permanent birth control. It is a laparoscopic surgery and a fairly simple procedure. Most women stay home from work the next day and are asked to avoid heavy lifting and exercise for 2 weeks. Through a small incision, our surgeon will use an instrument to burn the fallopian tubes which creates a permanent blockage of the tubes. If a woman is absolutely positive that they do not want to become pregnant in the future, then the effectiveness of this procedure is 100%. If you are considering tubal ligation, please call us at Dubai Gynecology for an in-depth consultation. ESSURE Essure is an alternative to tubal ligation. It involves the insertion of soft, flexible micro-inserts that block the Fallopian tubes and prevent sperm from reaching and fertilizing eggs. The ovaries will still produce eggs, but they will not be able to reach the uterus. Instead, they will be safely reabsorbed into the abdomen. This method is irreversible and can only be performed on patients who are sure they do not want to become pregnant in the future. Permanent birth control is 100% effective three months after the insertion. Alternate methods of birth control are necessary until the three months have elapsed.
Morning After Pills Emergency Contraception (EC), also known as the Morning-After pill, is intended for use after unprotected sexual intercourse or when you believe your primary method of birth control has failed and unwanted pregnancy may result. EC contains higher doses of the same hormones as regular birth control pills (estrogen and progestin), and must be taken within 72 hours of sexual intercourse. It is usually taken in two doses, 12 hours apart. This prevents ovulation which, in turn, can prevent pregnancy. Because taking EC prevents a woman from becoming pregnant it is not considered an abortion. Emergency Contraception is not intended for use as the primary means for birth control, and only as a back-up or in case of “emergency” as indicated by the name