Finding the right contraceptive method can feel overwhelming. An experienced gynecologist can help make this choice simpler.
At Salem Women's Clinic, Inc. in Salem, Oregon, Dr. Elizebeth Rose Harmon and our team offer personalized birth control and family planning counseling during your annual GYN exam or at a dedicated visit.
We help you find a method that fits your daily routine, health history, and body. Whether you’re looking for a long-term solution or a daily option, we guide you every step of the way.
Choosing your birth control starts with deciding between daily and set-and-forget methods. Some methods require daily attention; others work continuously on their own.
User-independent methods, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants, eliminate the risk of human error. They’re highly reliable because you don’t have to remember them. Fewer than one IUD user in 100 becomes pregnant in the first year.
However, IUDs don’t protect against sexually transmitted infections.
We offer daily options and long-acting devices at our clinic. During your visit, we discuss your daily routine to see which category may serve you best.
Choosing between hormonal and nonhormonal options often comes down to side effects. In a review, 35%-43% of copper IUD (nonhormonal) users reported heavy or prolonged bleeding. This occurs because copper triggers a localized reaction that prevents fertilization.
In contrast, hormonal IUDs release progestin, which thins the uterine lining and reduces bleeding. Our team helps you weigh these side effects against your natural cycle.
If you struggle with heavy periods, we may also discuss hormone management options. We ensure you choose a method that keeps you comfortable and fits your lifestyle.
If you plan to grow your family soon, your timeline is important. Injectable birth control, for example, could delay your return to fertility. The body needs time to clear the injected hormones before normal ovulation resumes.
If you want to get pregnant quickly after stopping birth control, other options may be better. We discuss your future goals during your visit to build a flexible plan. We can also coordinate your care with our first trimester pregnancy services when the time is right.
Choosing birth control is a personal decision that impacts your daily life. We’re here to support you with expert guidance and compassionate care. To discuss your options, schedule a consultation with our team at Salem Women’s Clinic today.