Modern Birth Control Methods

The two nonsurgical procedures differ slightly, but both can be done in your doctor's office in about 30 minutes with only a local anesthethic, unlike tubal ligation, which requires surgery. During the procedure, your doctor uses a special instrument called a hysteroscope to place an insert through your vagina and cervix and into the opening of your fallopian tube in your uterus. Within three months, the insert cause your body to form a tissue barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. During this three-month period, you need to use another form of birth control. After three months, the doctor performs a special x-ray to make sure your tubes are completely blocked. Risks include mild to moderate pain immediately after insertion. This method may reduce the risk of tubal (ectopic) pregnancy compared to tubal ligation. Women typically can return to their normal activities within a day or two.

As you can see, your options are much broader than that pill package that's been a fixture in your medicine chest for awhile. So make an appointment with your health care professional and talk about what's right for the woman you are today, not the woman you were then.