Family Planning Specialist

What is family planning?

Family planning is about managing and optimizing your overall health so you can have a happy, healthy family. A large part of family planning is birth control or contraception – choosing when and if you become pregnant – but there are other crucial factors as well.

Family planning involves spacing your pregnancies so that you don't become physically or mentally drained. You can also discuss any medical conditions with your OB/GYN that might affect your ability to conceive or carry a baby to full term.

Family planning services at Miami Women's Health Associates may also involve psychological counseling after events like a miscarriage and providing guidance if you have an unplanned pregnancy.

What are the most effective forms of contraception?

Avoiding sex altogether is the most effective form of contraception, but having a healthy sex life is important for most couples.

If your family is complete and you're looking for a permanent solution to contraception, options to consider include male vasectomy and female tubal ligation. While technically reversible, you should only undergo these procedures if you're sure you don't want any more children.

While fertility is still important for you, you need to look at other, easily reversible methods. The type of birth control you choose depends on a variety of considerations, including lifestyle, health concerns, and any risk factors, so you get the optimal combination of convenience and effectiveness for your needs.

What are the different types of reversible birth control?

Natural methods

Fertility awareness and the rhythm method can reduce your chances of conception but are the least reliable option.

Barrier methods

Male and female condoms and the cervical cap or diaphragm prevent sperm from entering your uterus. Using spermicide gel at the same time increases their effectiveness. The male condom is the only form of birth control that also protects against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Hormonal methods

These use estrogen and/or progesterone hormones to prevent conception. Choices include birth control pills (oral contraceptives), a vaginal ring like NuvaRing®, skin patches, injections, long-acting implants, and Mirena® and Kyleena® hormonal IUDs (intrauterine devices).

A copper IUD – Paragard® – is also available, which can stay in for up to 10 years and doesn't contain any hormones. You can also get emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") if you've had unprotected sex.

Sexuality and reproduction can be sensitive topics, but they’re essential to your health. The team at Miami Women's Health Associates listens carefully to your concerns and fears and also helps you understand your fertility cycle for optimal family planning.

For expert help with your family planning needs, call Miami Women's Health Associates or book an appointment online today.