Pills, patch and ring: What types of birth control are prescribed online?
In recent years, the options for prescription birth control have grown. Now, you can get a hormonal birth control prescription for the pill, patch or ring. And you can get it online without even going into a clinic.
Understanding the pros and cons of hormonal birth control
As you consider which hormonal birth control choice is right for you, it’s important to understand each option. Let’s look at some benefits and possible side effects of hormonal birth control.
Pros of hormonal birth control
- Provides 93% effectiveness at preventing pregnancy (pill, patch and ring) when used correctly
- Helps regulate periods and lessens flow
- Reduces PMS symptoms like cramps, bloating, headaches and mood swings
- Manages symptoms of endometriosis
- Calms hormonal acne
Cons of hormonal birth control
- Brings possible side effects like headaches, spotting, nausea and bloating (but they generally subside within two to three months)
- Only works to prevent pregnancy when used properly
- Doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- May increase blood pressure and risk of blood clots
Online birth control options
Figuring out which type of birth control is right for you can feel overwhelming. Let’s explore more about the pill, patch and ring and why you may choose one over another.
Birth control pill
To effectively prevent pregnancy, the pill must be taken at the same time of day, every day, which can be challenging for women who don’t like taking daily medication or who have trouble consistently doing so. If you fall into this latter category, consider using a daily alarm to help you remember when it’s time to take your pill.
Additionally, like all forms of hormonal birth control, some women may experience side effects. Fortunately, there are many different types and brands of birth control pills, including combination pills that contain both estrogen and progestin, and so-called mini pills that only contain progestin. If you don’t feel well on one type or brand of pill, you can switch to one that may have less side effects.
Birth control ring
For women seeking a hormonal birth control alternative to the pill, the birth control ring may be a good option. The two brands currently available are NuvaRing and Annovera. Each only needs to be removed and reinserted monthly, making the ring an attractive contraceptive option for women who don’t want the daily task of taking the pill.
With both brands, a small, flexible plastic ring inserted in the vagina releases the hormones estrogen and progestin to prevent ovulation and to thicken cervical mucus to trap sperm. The two brands differ in that you insert a new NuvaRing ring each month, whereas you can store and reuse the same Annovera ring for up to 12 months.
Possible drawbacks of the ring include initial side effects and discomfort while your body adjusts to the hormones and device. Additionally, some women may have trouble remembering when they need to reinsert a ring. The ring also tends to be more expensive than the pill.
Birth control patch
The patch is another alternative to oral birth control. Similar to an adhesive bandage you’d apply to a cut or scrape, the patch can be worn on the upper arm, stomach, back or buttocks. It’s applied weekly. The two brands of the patch sold in the U.S. are Xulane and Twirla. Both work by releasing low doses of estrogen and progestin to prevent pregnancy, but each contains a different combination of these hormones.
To be effective, a new patch must be applied weekly, and it’s important to check your patch daily to ensure it’s sticking well. If a patch starts to peel or come off, it may not be effective at preventing pregnancy, and a new patch should be applied. The patch isn’t a good option for women who smoke, have a higher body mass index or are over the age of 35. The patch is also more expensive than the pill and ring.
A convenient way to get birth control online
There’s a good birth control option for just about everyone. And now, it’s easier than ever to get a prescription for hormonal birth control. No trips to the clinic, paper gowns or expensive office exams are needed. Simply start a visit at Virtuwell, answer questions about your health and lifestyle, and we’ll guide you to the hormonal birth control option that best fits your needs. It’s that simple.
