Birth Control Options at Perfectly Female in Reston, VA

Choosing a birth control option may be overwhelming as there are many options available. Consult with a gynecologist from Perfectly Female to select the one that is best suited to your needs and those of your partner. Our board-certified OBGYNs provide birth control counseling at our gynecology office in Reston, Virginia. To learn more about your birth control options, please call (703) 796-0200 or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation.

Request An Appointment

Hormonal Contraceptives Available at Perfectly Female

Hormonal birth control can often help to regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle and associated symptoms by stabilizing her hormones. While hormonal contraceptives are particularly common, they are not recommended for each and every female. This decision will be based upon the patient’s health and any prior conditions or risk factors she may have.

Birth Control Pills

Oral contraceptive pills are taken daily and contain estrogen and progestin. They prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus to impede sperm from fertilizing eggs. These pills are safe, effective, and convenient, although their effectiveness may be reduced for overweight women. Vomiting or diarrhea can also affect their efficacy, so a backup method should be used if these occur.

Birth Control Patch

The patch is a small adhesive bandage-like contraceptive worn on the skin. It releases estrogen and progestin, similar to birth control pills, but is absorbed through the skin. By suppressing the pituitary gland, it prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach eggs. The patch delivers a higher dosage than pills, increasing the risk of side effects such as blood clots. Non-smokers are recommended to use the patch. It can also be used to treat irregular periods, menstrual cramps, or endometriosis.

The Depo Shot

The Depo-Provera or Depo shot is a highly effective method given once every 3 months. Administered by a medical professional, it leads to lighter periods or cessation of menstruation after several shots. This low-maintenance option provides over 99% effectiveness and is ideal for those seeking flexible birth control.

Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing)

The vaginal ring is a soft, flexible contraceptive worn inside the vagina. It releases estrogen and progestin, similar to birth control pills, but is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the vaginal wall. Inserted for three weeks and removed for one week, it provides consistent protection. This method improves effectiveness, reduces side effects, and eliminates the need for daily administration.

Non-Hormonal Forms of Birth Control at Perfectly Female

Some women can experience adverse side effects from adding more hormones to their bodies via contraceptives. Non-hormonal options are ideal in these situations and is also commonly recommended for women who wish to breastfeed while remaining on an effective form of birth control.

Condoms

Condoms are barrier contraceptives that physically prevent sperm from entering the vagina. They offer dual protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. They are the only form of protection that can help to stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), like HIV, and prevent pregnancy. A condom is a latex or polyurethane sheath that is closed at one end and fits over a man’s penis. Condoms are also available for females and have a flexible ring at either end. One end is closed and inserted into the vagina and the other end is open with the ring remaining outside the vagina. Available for males and females, they should be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Diaphragm

A diaphragm is a thin, rubber, dome-shaped device inserted into the vagina and placed over the cervix. It contains spermicide to kill sperm. Leaving it in place for 6 to 8 hours maximizes effectiveness. Weight changes, vaginal surgery, and pregnancy may affect fit, requiring medical assessment and potential resizing.The effectiveness of birth control ranges from between 86-94%.  If you have any changes, contact your medical provider to check and make sure it fits properly or determine if a new size is needed.

Permanent Contraception (Tubal Ligation)

Tubal ligation is a permanent procedure that blocks the fallopian tubes, preventing sperm from reaching eggs. The procedure seals the fallopian tubes with thread, bands, clips, an electric current, or small implants. Patients should be aware that the procedure provides permanent birth control and is NOT reversible.

Other Hormonal & Non-Hormonal Options Offered at Perfectly Female

There are a few different contraceptives that are available in both hormonal and non-hormonal forms.

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An IUD is a contraceptive device that delivers small amounts of hormone directly to the uterus. It is a form of birth control that remains in the uterus and can last for up to 5 years. It is a small, T-shaped, plastic device that is both soft and flexible and is put into place by a gynecologist during a visit to our office. An IUD works through several different actions that include thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, inhibiting the sperm from reaching or fertilizing an egg, and making the lining of the uterus thin. While they are 99% effective with regards to birth control, our gynecologist can remove the device if a patient is looking to become pregnant immediately.