Birth Control – Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer birth control?

Yes. We evaluate every patient for the birth control method is best for her. Birth control pills or the Depo-Provera shot are immediately available in our Centers for your convenience.


When do I start birth control?

When using birth control pills or the Nuva Ring, you start the first Sunday after the abortion procedure is performed. You may have the Depo-Provera shot immediately after the abortion procedure is performed.


How long does it take for the birth control to be effective?

Birth control is effective in the first week to 10 days. Without starting birth control, women can become pregnant 10 days to two weeks after termination of their pregnancy.

One must remember that sperm can live for 5 days, so it is possible for women to have unprotected sex 5 days after an abortion and become pregnant.


How effective is birth control?

Birth control is highly effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly and consistently. However, the effectiveness of each contraceptive method varies depending on the type of birth control used and whether it is used as directed.

Some birth control methods, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive implants, are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Other methods, including birth control pills, condoms, patches, and injections, have slightly lower effectiveness rates with typical use because they depend on regular or correct use.


Does birth control stop your period?

Yes, certain types of hormonal birth control can stop your period, but not all contraceptive methods have the same effect on your menstrual cycle.

Some birth control methods make periods lighter, shorter, or less frequent, while others may stop menstrual bleeding altogether.

Whether your period stops depends on the type of contraception you use, how your body responds to hormones, and how consistently you use your birth control.


Do you ovulate on birth control?

Whether you ovulate while using birth control depends on the type of contraception you use.

Some hormonal birth control methods prevent ovulation entirely or most of the time, while others primarily work by preventing sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg.

Ovulation occurs when an ovary releases an egg, typically once during each menstrual cycle. Many hormonal contraceptives prevent pregnancy by suppressing the hormones responsible for triggering ovulation.


Can birth control cause infertility?

No, birth control does not cause permanent infertility. Most hormonal and nonhormonal contraceptive methods are reversible, meaning your ability to become pregnant generally returns after you stop using them.


Can birth control cause weight gain?

Yes, some birth control methods may cause weight gain, but the effects vary depending on the type of contraception and how your body responds to hormonal changes.

While weight gain is a commonly reported concern among people using hormonal contraceptives, research shows that most birth control methods do not cause significant weight gain.


Can birth control make you nauseous?

Yes, nausea is a possible side effect of hormonal birth control, particularly birth control pills containing estrogen. Some people experience mild nausea, an upset stomach, or occasional vomiting when they first start using hormonal contraception.

Nausea is usually temporary and often improves within the first two to three months as the body adjusts to hormonal changes. However, the severity and duration of symptoms vary from person to person.


Does birth control make your breast bigger?

Yes, some hormonal birth control methods may cause temporary breast fullness, swelling, or tenderness, which can make your breasts feel or appear slightly larger.

However, these changes are usually mild and do not necessarily result in permanent breast enlargement.


Can you use plan b with birth control?

Yes, you can safely take Plan B (the morning-after pill) while using regular hormonal birth control. Plan B contains levonorgestrel, a hormone that helps prevent pregnancy primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation.


Can I get pregnant by missing one birth control pill?

Yes, it is possible to get pregnant after missing one birth control pill, but the risk is generally low if you are taking a combination birth control pill containing estrogen and progestin. 

Missing a single combination birth control pill does not usually cause ovulation to resume immediately.

However, missing pills repeatedly or extending the hormone-free interval between pill packs can increase the risk of unintended pregnancy.


Does birth control affect sex drive?

Yes, hormonal birth control can affect sex drive (libido), but the effects vary from person to person. Some people experience a decrease in sexual desire while using hormonal contraception, while others notice no changes or even an increase in libido.

Birth control methods such as oral contraceptive pills, Depo-Provera injections, hormonal IUDs, vaginal rings, and contraceptive implants may influence sexual desire through hormonal changes.


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