There is no one “right” method of birth control. Everyone’s body has its own needs and timing. At Altais, we believe your chosen birth control should match your life, and we’re ready to help you choose with confidence.
Personalized Birth Control Options for Every Stage of Life
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- Personalized Birth Control Options for Every Stage of Life
From preparing for pregnancy to exploring birth control options, steady guidance makes all the difference. At Altais, we deliver counseling and care for people of all ages and life stages.
Services are available in cities across California through our trusted network of reproductive health providers.
Birth Control Options at Altais
Hormonal Methods (Pill, Patch, Ring, Injection)
Hormonal birth control offers a reliable way to prevent a pregnancy, and it often comes with added benefits like lighter periods or clearer skin.
Your options include the pill, a patch, an injection (called Depo-Provera) or a vaginal ring. These methods adjust your hormone levels to help prevent ovulation and lower the risk of getting pregnant. They don’t protect against STIs, so pairing them with a condom could still be a good idea.
These birth control methods require regular use to be effective. Some who use them have side effects like nausea or headaches when first starting out. Your doctor can help talk you through what to expect and which of these best fits your routine.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (IUDs, Implants)
You don’t really need to think about birth control every single day for it to be effective. Long-acting options — specifically, long-acting reversible contraceptives — do exist and are available through our provider network here at Altais.
Long-acting options like IUDs and the implant can offer reliable protection for years. IUDs are small devices placed in the uterus, whereas the implant goes just under the skin of your upper arm. They can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years, but you can remove them anytime you like.
If you’re looking for birth control without daily upkeep, these could be a strong fit. They do have some possible side effects — bleeding, cramping and others — so check with your provider about which is best for your body and lifestyle.
Barrier Methods and Non-Hormonal Options
Barrier methods work by physically preventing sperm from reaching an egg. These include:
- Condoms
- Diaphragms
- Cervical caps
They’re used during intercourse and don’t involve either hormones or a long-term commitment on your part.
Some barrier methods, like condoms, actually can help prevent STIs, which might make them a smart option. All of them work best when used consistently. Your provider can walk you through the details to make an informed choice.
Emergency Contraception
Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Emergency contraception gives you a second chance of preventing pregnancy after a birth control mishap or unprotected sex.
Your options include the morning-after pill or, if it’s within five days, a copper IUD. The sooner you act, the better chance they have of working.
Emergency contraception isn’t meant for regular use, but it’s an option you’ll find available through Altais when you need it.
Permanent Contraception (Sterilization)
Permanent contraception like a vasectomy or tubal ligation can offer lasting peace of mind, especially if you know you’re done growing your family. The procedures are simple, effective and not reversible. That’s why they’re most often only recommended for people who know for sure they don’t want any future pregnancies.
This is a big decision. Your provider can help you make the right one.
How to Choose the Right Birth Control for You
Factors to Consider: Lifestyle, Health and Goals
It helps to think through what matters most to you before deciding on a birth control method. We’ll take into account:
- How often you’re sexually active
- Your need for STI protection
- Your medical history, especially if you have clotting risks
- Your future plans for having a family
- How consistent you can be with regular usage
Questions to Ask During Your Visit
Bring these questions to your provider to help clarify what’s best for you:
- What happens if I want to stop or switch to a different kind of birth control?
- Is it still reliable if I miss a dose?
- Will it affect my period or fertility?
- Does it agree with my lifestyle?
When to Revisit Your Birth Control Plan
Birth control isn’t a one-and-done thing. If your health, goals or medications ever change, it’s worth checking in with your provider.
What to Expect During Your Visit
We understand that birth control is personal. That’s why Altais approaches every conversation with care and zero pressure.
Confidential, Judgment-Free Care
Our providers offer solutions, not assumptions.
Discussing Your Reproductive Health Goals
Your plans and choices are our guide. We’ll walk through the options together.
Insurance and Coverage Considerations
We accept most insurance plans, including PPOs, HMOs and Medicare. If you don’t have insurance, we’re happy to discuss payment options.
Why Trust Altais for Birth Control Counseling
Birth control counseling is about receiving care that’s personalized for you. We don’t just understand that — we make room for you to ask questions and find the solutions you want.
Expert OB-GYN Providers You Can Rely On
Listen first. Explain clearly. These are the principles our OB-GYN providers stand by.
Culturally Sensitive, Whole-Person Care
We know your values shape who you are. We honor that with recommendations carefully adapted to you.
Integrated Access to Women’s Health Services
Our statewide network enables seamless access to fertility support, STI testing and follow-up treatments.
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