Choosing the right birth control can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available today. Whether you’re looking for something temporary, long-term, hormone-free, or low maintenance, it’s important to find a method that fits your body, lifestyle, and goals.
At North Carolina OB/GYN & Midwifery, we believe every patient deserves a personalized birth control plan—one that considers your medical history, future family planning, and personal preferences. If you live in Raleigh, Cary, or Holly Springs, our experienced providers are here to guide you through your options with trusted contraceptive counseling.
Why Birth Control Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
What works well for one person may not be the best fit for another. Factors like age, hormone sensitivity, lifestyle, and reproductive goals all play a role. For instance, birth control for teens and young adults may prioritize ease of use and privacy, while someone nearing menopause might have different considerations. Our OB/GYNs and certified nurse-midwives take time to understand your full health picture before recommending any method.
Common Birth Control Methods
Here’s a look at the most common birth control options and who they might be best suited for:
Hormonal Methods
- Birth control pills, patches, and rings: Convenient and widely used, but require consistent use. May not be ideal for those sensitive to hormones.
- Hormonal IUDs (e.g., Mirena): A form of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) that lasts 3–8 years with high effectiveness.
- Implants (e.g., Nexplanon): A small rod placed under the skin that provides long-term protection for up to 3 years.
- Injections (e.g., Depo-Provera): Requires quarterly visits for ongoing contraception.
Non-Hormonal Methods
- Copper IUDs: A hormone-free LARC option that lasts up to 10 years.
- Condoms: Provide STI protection and can be used with other methods.
- Natural family planning: Involves tracking fertility signs daily. A good fit for those who want birth control with few side effects but requires consistency and education.
Permanent Methods
- Tubal ligation or vasectomy (partner): Appropriate for those confident they no longer wish to become pregnant.
You can explore these options further by visiting our birth control counseling page
Factors to Consider When Choosing Birth Control
When selecting the best birth control methods, we help you weigh important considerations, including:
- Effectiveness and ease of use
- Side effects and how your body responds to hormones
- Your menstrual cycle, skin health, and PMS symptoms
- Whether you want children in the future, and when
- Protection against STIs, if needed
- Medical history, such as migraines, blood pressure, or autoimmune conditions
What’s “best” isn’t about popularity—it’s about what works for you.
How We Help You Choose the Right Method
At North Carolina OB/GYN & Midwifery, we don’t just hand you a list—we walk through your options together. During a contraceptive counseling visit, we’ll:
- Review your current health and future goals
- Discuss your preferences and past experiences
- Explain how each method works, including pros and cons
- Help you try or schedule the method that suits you best
Our collaborative approach means your voice is always at the center of your care.
Meet the team behind your care by visiting our OB/GYNs and certified midwives.
Ready to Take Control of Your Reproductive Health?
No matter where you are in your reproductive journey, you deserve accurate information, support, and options. We’re here to help you make confident, informed decisions—free of judgment and full of possibilities.
Schedule a birth control consultation today or fill out our online form to get started. We proudly serve patients in Raleigh, Cary, and Holly Springs, and we’re here to help you find the best path forward—on your terms.