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Birth Control/Family Planning at CHOICES Contraception, or birth control, is a very personal issue. Choosing to use a form of birth control, as well
as the type of method utilized, is one of the more important decisions of your life. No one method is right for everyone, so
it is important to know about the different methods and understand your own needs and preferences.The knowledgeable providers at CHOICES understand that a woman's reproductive needs may change throughout her lifecycle. From adolescence, to family planning, to planning for the end of the reproductive cycle, CHOICES' staff provides the physical and emotional treatment and support so that women can be and remain in control of their sexual and reproductive health. The informed staff at CHOICES can discuss with you the issues to consider when choosing a form of birth control, the methods of birth control available at CHOICES, the myths and realities involved in taking control of your sexual and reproductive health care, and the old wives' tales that put your health at risk. The staff is knowledgeable about all available birth control methods (both over-the-counter and prescription) and will work with you to find the best fit for you and your lifestyle.
Issues to Consider in Choosing a Method of Contraception Deciding on your method of birth control involves what CHOICES' providers call "The ESP method." ESP stands for "Effectiveness, Safety, Personality." All three factors have to be considered in deciding on the method of birth control that is right for you. When some women say that they can't use birth control, what they really may be saying is that they haven't found the method that combines the right ESP for them. Without considering ESP in choosing a contraceptive option, sexual activity may result in an unwanted pregnancy, possible infection or disease, and physical discomfort, any of which may make you unwilling to practice birth control. While there is no one method that is right for everyone, there is bound to be at least one that is best for you. Effectiveness: Some methods of birth control are less than 50% effective; others are over 99% effective. The importance of effectiveness to you depends on how important it is for you to avoid pregnancy. For instance, if pregnancy would cause you physical, emotional or financial hardship and you are, for any reason, opposed to abortion, you must select the most effective method available, after carefully considering its safety and your personality and lifestyle. Safety: How safe are the various methods of birth control? What side effects do they have? Some methods are 100% safe, others can be dangerous for some women, others may cause unwanted side effects. Understanding the safety as well as knowing all the risks and benefits can allow you to make a truly informed choice for a contraceptive method. Personality: This important ingredient is often overlooked. The type of person you are determines what product will be best for you. For example, if you are the type of person who can't stand mess - or have a sex partner who feels that way - you'll most likely be unhappy with foams and creams, which do tend to be messy. If you are weight-conscious, you may not be pleased with methods that may cause a slight weight gain. If you are uncomfortable touching yourself vaginally, the nuva ring and diaphragm may not be for you. Women who aren't happy with a product tend not to use it. If that product is birth control, giving up means that an undesired pregnancy can result. CHOICES' providers take the time to get to know you so that we can help you choose the best method for your personality and lifestyle. If you want additional expert advice, contact us at (718) 786-5000. We'll be glad to discuss with you the ESP important to your health. Remember - this is your life and your body. No one can take responsibility for it but you.
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