Guide to birth control options for women in Katy, TX

What is the best birth control method? It seems like a simple question, and it is one that we are asked frequently here at Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine in Katy, TX. However, there isn’t a universal answer.

Birth control options

There are many forms of birth control, some of the most popular include:

Surgical sterilization – This is usually the best choice for couple seeking a permanent birth control solution. For women, tubal ligation prevents eggs from moving to the uterus. For men, a vasectomy procedure prevents sperm from leaving the body.
Condoms – Whenever sexually transmitted disease is a concern, condoms should be used. Male condoms are most effective, but female condoms offer some protection. Both types should not be used together due to risk of breakage.
Cervical cap, sponge, diaphragm – These and similar devices are simple and economical. They have varying rates of effectiveness, which can be increased when spermicide is also used. Like condoms, they must be replaced every time.
Patch, pill, shots, vaginal ring – These are various methods of administering birth control medications. They are maintained on a schedule, ranging from daily (if you are taking pills) to monthly (replacing vaginal rings). These methods are more convenient than single-use birth control, but can easily be discontinued.
Implant, IUD (intrauterine device) – These semi-permanent methods provide consistent protection for years, without sterilization.

Factors to consider when choosing birth control

Factors to Consider when Choosing Birth Control in Katy, Tx Area

Because there are so many factors involved, the best way to explore birth control options is an in-depth discussion with your gynecologist. We will provide guidance, helping you choose the best solution for your unique needs. You are encouraged to ask questions and voice any concerns or preferences you have.

A few of the most important factors affecting your choice will include:

STD (sexually transmitted disease) protection – If you are sexually active, pregnancy is not the only concern. Condoms are not known as the most convenient or effective method of birth control. However, they are the only option that also protects against STD’s. Many couples use dual birth control, such as condoms and the pill. This increases the protection against pregnancy, and also provides some protection from disease.
Convenience – Do you have trouble remembering to take pills on schedule? Are you uncomfortable asking your partner to wear a condom? Do you object to birth control interfering with spontaneous intimacy? Before settling on a birth control method, be sure that you are comfortable with it, and that it works with your lifestyle.
Effectiveness – No birth control method (except abstinence) is 100 percent effective, but some are very close. Statistics can be a bit confusing. Some methods work quite well under ideal circumstances but may be highly subject to human error. The most accurate effectiveness rating are based on “typical use” data, which is calculated from the average percentage of unintended pregnancies that occur within the first year of using the method. Implants are rated the most effective with a .05 percent pregnancy rating, while spermicide (used alone, without a diaphragm or condom) has the lowest rating at 28 percent pregnancies.
Permanency – Are you planning to start a family in a few months? Are you absolutely certain you never want to become pregnant at any time in the future? Or somewhere in between? This is an important factor in your decision. Birth control options may be as temporary as condoms, or as permanent as surgical sterilization. There are also many temporary, long-term solutions that provide protection for months or years.
Frequency of use – Spermicide alone provides poor protection, but it increases the effectiveness of other birth control such as condoms or diaphragms. However, if used often it can irritate vaginal tissue, leaving you more susceptible to certain infections.
Health considerations – Oral contraceptive treatment, better known as “the pill,” is one of the best known and most popular forms of birth control. These medications can cause unwanted side effects such as breast tenderness, and it is not appropriate for women with certain medical conditions. They can also decrease or stop menstrual periods and the accompanying symptoms such as cramping and bloating. Similarly, many other forms of birth control have potential health benefits as well as risks. “Safe and healthy” is different for every woman. Be sure to discuss any medical conditions and health concerns with your gynecologist when discussing birth control options.

Call our office

New patients please call:
855-346-8610

Existing patients please call:
281-347-2600

Telehealth Appointment

To learn about the best birth control method for you, call us at 855-346-8610 and schedule a consultation.

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Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine
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We offer general care, gynecology, and obstetrics services that span all stages of a woman's life. Dr. Taryll L. Jenkins, MD, received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University and his Doctorate of Medicine from Meharry Medical College School of Medicine, TN. He completed his residency training at the University of Texas and Hermann Hospital, TX and is Board-certified from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, with years of research experience.

Having graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Chemistry in 2011, Dr. Stephanie Roy received her Doctor of Medicine Degree in 2015 from the University of Texas Medical Branch. Today, she is a leading Board-certified physician who works hard to provide you and your family with high-quality services. In addition to spending time at the practice, Dr. Roy possesses extensive volunteer experience in the community. She was also a tutor at the Medical Careers Diversity Program in 2012 and, since then, has spent her free time volunteering for the St. Vincent’s Clinic.

Yara Ramirez, MD, earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University and her doctorate in medicine from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, where she also completed her residency. She won the Resident Teaching Award from UTMB’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for two consecutive years.
Dr. Ramirez has researched extensively on many obstetrics-related topics. She has been a Junior Fellow Representative for the UTMB Residency Program and a Medical Student Education Committee Member at the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She has volunteered for various local and foreign community programs. Her fluency in Spanish and French is an asset to her organization.

Dr. Matthew Mason, MD, is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist. With a Bachelor of Science in Biology from both the University of Texas at San Antonio and Austin (where he also earned a secondary degree in Business Foundations), he earned his MD from the Ross University School of Medicine. Dr. Mason completed his residency at the Sisters of Charity Hospital in Buffalo, NY, at the Jacobs School of Medicine. Known for his expertise in high-risk obstetrics and advanced surgical procedures, he is a published author and a Junior Fellow of The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Nadia Alexander is a Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center. With seven years of experience in women’s health and a focus on obstetrics and ambulatory gynecology (vaginitis, UTI, and vaginal bleeding), she provides quality, compassionate care to patients in various stages of reproductive life. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is the lead contact for our Telehealth service.

Kaila White, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, is a board-certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner with a background in nursing. She earned her Master’s and Doctorate of Nursing from the University of South Alabama and began her career in 2017 as an oncology nurse in Tampa, FL. Her extensive experience spans medical-surgical, oncology, hospice, geriatrics, labor and delivery, and high-acuity travel nursing. Kaila has also served as an adjunct clinical nursing professor at the University of Houston. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care and empowering women through education and advocacy.