I’m in Perimenopause. What Are My Birth Control Options?
Being in perimenopause does not mean that you cannot get pregnant. At this stage of your life, it is still necessary to use birth control if you do not wish to have any children. The best way to choose the birth control that is right for you is to make an appointment with a gynecologist for contraceptive counseling. Generally, most forms of hormonal birth control that were appropriate before perimenopause will still work for you, but these each have their pros and cons. Here is a look at some of your options.
Combination Contraceptives
Combination birth control pills, vaginal rings, and skin patches include both estrogen and progestin to prevent pregnancy. These birth controls can be extremely effective, but they are not appropriate for everyone. Some women should not use contraceptives that contain estrogen because of the risk of blood clots. Combination estrogen and progestin birth control pills and rings contain less estrogen than patches, so they carry a lower risk of blood clots. Your gynecologist will weigh the risk factors before deciding if this kind of contraceptive is right for you.
Progestin Contraceptives
Progestin contraceptives do not contain estrogen, so they are often safer for women who are prone to blood clots. These kinds of contraceptives are available as an IUD, implant, and pill. They also have the added benefit of reducing the risk of endometrium cancer. This kind of birth control, particularly the progestin pill, may be slightly less effective than combination birth control, but it is still considered to be a reliable option.
Sterilization Procedures
If you are certain that you do not wish to have any more children, you may wish to consider a tubal ligation or request that your partner undergoes a vasectomy. These procedures alleviate the need for ongoing birth control.
During contraceptive counseling, your gynecologist at Women’s Healthcare Associates will review all of your options and help you select a birth control that is right for your health and future family planning goals. To make an appointment to discuss birth control in Houston, call 713-654-8128.
