Birth Control Specialist

How do I decide which birth control option is best for me?

Women have more safe and effective birth control options than ever before. Among the most commonly used in the United States are: the pill, IUD, vaginal ring, Nexplanon® implant and the patch. As a leading OB/GYN with over a decade of experience, Dr. Chowdhury is well versed in the array of contraceptive options and able to help patients choose the one most comfortable, and best suited for their lifestyle.

What are the pros and cons of birth control pills?

The pill is 99% effective and has been one of the most popular forms of birth control since the early 1980s. Many women favor this method because there is no interruption during foreplay or intercourse. It also offers the added benefit of reducing bleeding and cramping during periods, and may protect against: acne, anemia, ectopic pregnancy, bone thinning, non-cancerous breast growths and endometrial and ovarian cancer. The drawbacks are that some women experience breast tenderness, nausea and spotting. Also, they must remember to take it daily.

What is an IUD and how does it work?

The acronym IUD stands for "intrauterine device." There are two types of IUDs. Both are T-shaped and inserted into the uterus by Dr. Chowdhury. A hormonal IUD prevents pregnancy by releasing the hormone, progesterone which thickens cervical mucus, preventing sperm from traveling and reaching an egg. A copper IUD is actually made of plastic, but is wrapped in a thin copper wire. Copper ions also prevent pregnancy by inhibiting movement of sperm. Depending on the type and brand of IUD, the device is effective between three and ten years. IUDs are also 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

How is an IUD Placed?

Before the insertion begins, Dr. Chowdhury may suggest that patients consume an over-the-counter pain medication to lessen the discomfort throughout the insertion. Dr. Chowdhury may also suggest that patients bring a sanitary pad in case there is any bleeding after the procedure. To figure out the placement and the mobility of the uterus, Dr. Chowdhury will typically perform a pelvic exam at the time of insertion. She will start the placement by inserting a speculum into the vagina and employing a tenaculum to steady the cervix. A local anesthetic can be utilized to minimize discomfort throughout the procedure as well. The area where the IUD will be placed is sterilized to ensure the site is clean and Dr. Chowdhury will obtain the direction and length of the woman’s uterus. Then the IUD is implanted by a slider or tube. Discomfort should be insignificant and the procedure should only take a few moments. 

What Is Nexplanon®?

Nexplanon® is a leading brand of implant birth control. Made of plastic and about the size of a match stick, it is inserted by Dr. Chowdhury on the inside of the patient’s upper arm under the skin. Once inserted, Nexplanon continuously releases progestin, one of the hormones used in birth control pills, which again prevents the sperm from reaching the egg. It too is 99% effective, and provides up to 3 years of contraception. The device may be removed at any time, but must be removed at the end of the third year, at which time a new device may be implanted.