Hormonal contraception, as the name implies, is a type of medication. Birth control pills are the most popular, but there are also shots and patches. Barrier contraception, on the other hand, stops semen from reaching its intended destination. Condoms and IUDs (intra-uterine devices) are both barrier forms of contraception.
Hormonal contraception is often easier to use than a barrier form. It can also be more effective in preventing pregnancy. However, hormonal contraception offers no protection against sexually transmitted diseases such as Herpes, Gonorrhea and Syphilis. What is more, some women have an allergic reaction to this type of contraception, which results in the swelling of the vulva. In serious (yet rare) cases, vaginal rejuvenation doctors have to do surgery to restore the vulva to its normal size.
Barrier contraception offers some (but not total) protection from STDs. The downsides are the fact that condoms can easily break and IUDs can be uncomfortable for many women, especially if a woman does not get medical help from a gynecologist in choosing and inserting an IUD.
While no form of contraception is perfect, it is important to note that one type of contraception may be more suitable for a particular individual than another type. A woman who is unsure which form of contraception is best for her personally should contact the Woodlands OBGYN Associates. A gynecologist will take into account a woman’s sexual history, medical history, present sexual activity and her desires regarding having children and then offer advice as to the best form of contraceptive to use.
