Contraception

Contraception allows you to take control of your reproductive health and plan your future on your terms. At Yunella Women’s Health in the Mid City West area of Los Angeles, board-certified OB/GYN David Kim, MD, PhD, offers personalized guidance and expert care to help you find the right birth control method. He provides compassionate, personalized, and expert care to help you explore the birth control options that best fit your lifestyle and goals. Call today or book an appointment online to explore your options with confidence.

What is contraception?

Contraception, also known as birth control, refers to methods or devices used to prevent pregnancy. It allows women and couples to plan if and when they want to have children, while also giving them more control over their reproductive health. Some forms of contraception also provide added benefits, such as regulating menstrual cycles, reducing cramps, or lowering the risk of certain cancers and infections.

What are my contraception options?

There are many types of contraception, and each works differently. Common options include:

Hormonal methods

Birth control pills, patches, injections, vaginal rings, and hormonal IUDs prevent ovulation or change the uterine lining.

Barrier methods

Condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps physically block sperm from reaching the egg.

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC)

Nonhormonal IUDs and implants are highly effective and can last several years.

Permanent options

Tubal ligation or sterilization provides a lasting solution for women who do not wish to become pregnant in the future.

Natural methods

Fertility awareness tracking and withdrawal rely on careful monitoring but are generally less effective.

Does contraception guarantee I won’t get pregnant?

No method, aside from complete abstinence, is 100% effective. However, some methods are more reliable than others. For example, IUDs and implants are over 99% effective, while birth control pills work well when taken consistently and correctly. 

Barrier methods like condoms are less effective at preventing pregnancy but do provide important protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

How do I know which contraception is right for me?

To determine the best choice for you, Dr. Kim learns about your lifestyle, health, comfort level, and long-term goals. Some women prefer the convenience of a daily pill, while others choose a long-term option that requires little maintenance. 

Your medical history, whether you’re planning future pregnancies, and how important STI protection is to you, also play a role. Dr. Kim can help you weigh the pros and cons of each method to find the best fit.

Choosing contraception is a personal decision, but making an appointment at Yunella Women’s Health can help provide guidance. Book a consultation with Dr. Kim by calling the friendly office staff today or using the online scheduling feature.