Birth Control & Contraception in Austin, TX
Choosing birth control is a personal decision that depends on your health, your goals and what matters most to you. At Compass Women’s Health, contraception visits give you time to compare options, ask questions and choose a method you feel comfortable with.
What Are the Main Types of Birth Control?
Birth control methods fall into several groups: short-acting hormonal methods such as the pill, patch, ring and injection; long-acting reversible methods such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the implant; barrier methods such as condoms; fertility awareness methods; emergency contraception; and permanent methods.
Each method works differently and has its own benefits, side effects and level of effectiveness. Long-acting methods are among the most effective reversible options because they do not depend on daily use.
Topics a Contraception Visit Can Cover
- Comparing methods and how they work
- Side effects and how to manage them
- Switching or stopping a method
- Birth control and your health history
- Planning for a future pregnancy
When Should You Talk to a Gynecologist About Birth Control?
Consider an appointment if you
- Are starting birth control for the first time
- Want to switch methods
- Have side effects from your current method
- Have irregular or heavy bleeding on birth control
- Are thinking about stopping birth control
- Have a health condition that may affect your options
- Take medications that may interact with birth control
- Are planning a pregnancy in the future
- Want to understand emergency contraception
- Have questions you have not been able to ask
You can also discuss contraception during a routine gynecology visit.
How Do You Choose a Birth Control Method?
The right method depends on how effective you want it to be, how often you want to think about it, whether you prefer hormonal or non-hormonal options, your medical history, possible side effects, cost and coverage, and your plans for a future pregnancy. Some health conditions, such as a history of blood clots or certain types of migraine, can affect which methods are safe for you.
Birth Control Can Do More Than Prevent Pregnancy
Some hormonal methods can also make periods lighter or more predictable, ease menstrual cramps or help manage symptoms related to PMOS/PCOS. Condoms are the only method that also lowers the risk of sexually transmitted infections. Your gynecologist can help you weigh these factors.
Dr. Crystal Berry-Roberts, MD, MBA, FACOG
Birth Control: Common Questions
Short answers to questions patients often ask about contraception.
Does birth control affect future fertility?
For most methods, fertility returns soon after stopping. With the injection, it can take longer for ovulation to return.
What should I do if I miss a pill?
Follow the instructions for your specific pill and use backup contraception if they recommend it. Ask your doctor for guidance specific to your method.
Does emergency contraception end a pregnancy?
No. Emergency contraception works mainly by preventing or delaying ovulation. It does not end an existing pregnancy.
Do I need a pelvic exam to get birth control?
Not usually. Many methods can be prescribed after a health history and blood pressure check. Some methods, such as an IUD, involve an exam as part of placement.
Contraception Care in Austin
Compass Women’s Health is located at:
4100 Duval Rd
Building 2, Suites 101–102
Austin, TX 78759
Compass Women’s Health welcomes new patients and provides in-person gynecologic care, including contraception and family planning. You can schedule an appointment to compare options or talk about your current method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Long-acting reversible methods, such as IUDs and the implant, and permanent methods are the most effective because they do not depend on remembering to use them.
Yes. Your gynecologist can help you choose a new method and plan the switch so you stay protected.
Yes. Non-hormonal options include the copper IUD, condoms and other barrier methods, and fertility awareness methods.
Yes. Compass Women’s Health welcomes new patients.
Compass Women’s Health is located at 4100 Duval Rd, Building 2, Suites 101–102, Austin, TX 78759.
Ready to Talk About Birth Control?
Bring your questions about your current method or the options you are considering. Compass Women’s Health is here to listen.