University of Miami Reproductive Health Services

Contraceptives

UM Reproductive Health Services offers routine contraception and contraception for patients with complex medical conditions like hypertension, diabetes, heart or kidney disease, and organ failure.

Contraception services include:

IUD (Intrauterine Device) - A plastic or metal device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.There are two broad categories of IUDs: copper-based devices, and hormonally-based devices. The copper device can be left in the uterus for up to six years, while the hormonal device must be replaced each year.

Implants - Contraceptive implants consist of hormone-filled capsules that are inserted under the skin in a woman's upper arm. Implants are a safe and effective method of reversible, long-term contraception for most women. They do not interfere with intercourse and are effective within 24 hours after insertion.

Hysteroscopic tubal ligation -This procedure can be performed using general anesthesia, sedation with local injection of the cervix, oral pain medication, or spinal anesthesia. Most people are comfortable using a local sedative or oral sedation. Your gynecologist will discuss with you any surgical risks associated with this procedure.

In this procedure a hysteroscope (a long, thin fiber-optic telescope) is used to help the surgeon insert two very small titanium coils in the opening of the fallopian tubes. You have to use birth control for three months. After three to four months, a dye test (Hysterosalpingogram) is done to confirm occlusion of the fallopian tubes. After confirmation, patients can have unprotected sex. In rare cases when the tubes are still open, patients will continue to use birth control and repeat the hysterosalpingogram in two to three months.

Hormonal contraception - The most effective, non-permanent method of birth control. Hormonal contraceptives are available as pills (oral contraceptives) and as one-month or three-month injections.

Want to know more about contraceptives? Click here to view a chart which compares several options.