Birth Control in Santa Barbara, CA
For women who are sexually active but not ready to become pregnant, there are many safe and effective birth control options available. At Rashti Women's Care in Santa Barbara, CA, we work closely with each patient to find a form of contraception that fits their health, lifestyle, and reproductive goals. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and we’re here to help you find yours.
Request an AppointmentTypes of Birth Control Available at Rashti Women’s Care
There are several categories of contraception, each with unique mechanisms, benefits, and considerations. Dr. Rashti will review your full health history and reproductive goals before making any recommendations.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods physically prevent sperm from entering the uterus. These include male and female condoms as well as diaphragms and cervical caps. Condoms are the only form of birth control that also protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Barrier methods are non-hormonal and have no systemic side effects, making them a good option for women who prefer to avoid hormones.
Hormonal Methods
Hormonal contraceptives use synthetic hormones to prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, or altering the uterine lining. Options include oral contraceptive pills taken daily, a hormonal patch applied weekly to the skin, a hormonal injection (Depo-Provera) given every 3 months, a hormonal implant inserted under the skin of the upper arm effective for up to 3 years, and a hormonal IUD that releases low levels of progestin locally and can be effective for 3–7 years.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)
LARCs are among the most effective forms of birth control available. They require no daily action and are fully reversible when removed. Hormonal IUD options (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla) are effective for 3–8 years. The copper IUD (Paragard) is a non-hormonal option effective for up to 10 years and can also serve as emergency contraception when inserted within 5 days of unprotected intercourse. The subdermal implant (Nexplanon) is inserted in the arm and effective for up to 3 years.
Permanent Contraception
For women who are certain they do not wish to have future pregnancies, tubal ligation is a permanent option. This procedure involves cutting, clamping, or cauterizing the fallopian tubes to permanently prevent eggs from reaching the uterus. It is considered irreversible and is recommended only for women who are confident in their decision.
Effectiveness and Risks
Abstinence is the only method that is 100% effective at preventing pregnancy. With perfect use, many hormonal and LARC methods are more than 99% effective. Every contraceptive has its own risk and benefit profile, and it’s important to make this decision together with your doctor so you’re fully aware of your options. This discussion is also a core part of our family planning services.
To schedule a birth control consultation at Rashti Women's Care, call (805) 682-7109 or request an appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Birth Control
What is the most effective form of birth control?
Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like IUDs and the subdermal implant are among the most effective methods available, with failure rates of less than 1% with typical use. The only 100% effective method is abstinence.
Will birth control affect my ability to get pregnant in the future?
Most forms of reversible birth control do not have a long-term impact on fertility. After stopping most methods, fertility returns fairly quickly, often within one to three months. The hormonal injection may delay the return of fertility for up to a year in some women.
Are there non-hormonal birth control options?
Yes. Non-hormonal options include barrier methods (condoms, diaphragm), the copper IUD, and permanent surgical sterilization. These are good choices for women who prefer to avoid synthetic hormones or have conditions that make hormonal contraception unsuitable.
Can I get an IUD at Rashti Women’s Care?
Yes. We provide IUD insertion and management for both hormonal and copper IUDs. Dr. Rashti will discuss the options, walk you through the insertion process, and help you determine if an IUD is right for you.
What should I do if I think I’m experiencing side effects from my birth control?
Call our office at (805) 682-7109 if you are experiencing side effects such as persistent headaches, mood changes, or irregular bleeding. We can evaluate whether a different method may be a better fit for your body.
Can birth control help manage conditions like PCOS or endometriosis?
Yes. Hormonal contraceptives are often used to manage symptoms associated with PCOS, endometriosis, and abnormal uterine bleeding. Dr. Rashti will discuss whether a hormonal method may also address underlying gynecological concerns you have.
How do I get started with birth control at Rashti Women’s Care?
Simply call Rashti Women's Care at (805) 682-7109 or request an appointment online. We’ll schedule a consultation where Dr. Rashti will review your health history and help you find the birth control method that’s right for you.