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New Birth Control option at AWC! The Essure Tubal Sterilization Proocedure - The Essure permanent birth control system is designed to provide a non-incisional alternative for women seeking sterilization. It does not require general anesthesia and the procedure can be done in our office. It works by inserting micro-inserts in the fallopian tubes. Over a three month period, tissue grows around the inserts and blocks the fallopian tubes, resulting in permanent birth control. For more information, see www.essure.com |
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Oral Contraceptives ("Birth Control Pills") - One of the most popular methods of contraception, oral contraceptives are very effective if taken as prescribed. AWC often provides free samples at your visit if interested. Pills can be started right away, or on the Sunday during your period or after after an abortion. There are many different types of oral contraceptives and our clinicians will take time to help you understand the differences and choose the pill that is right for you. |
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Ortho Evra™ - A weekly contraceptive patch is available by prescription at your visit. Start the patch during your period or the first Sunday after an abortion. The patch needs to be changed once per week. For more information, log onto www.orthoevra.com |
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Depo-Provera® or MPA - A contraceptive injection ("shot") can be started in the first five days of your period or the first five days after an abortion. The cost is $65 and it lasts for 12 weeks. It is one of the most affordable methods of hormonal contraception. For more information, log onto www.depo-provera.com |
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New at AWC! Implanon - A long-term method of birth control, Implanon is an implant that is inserted in the arm between the biceps and triceps that can be used for up to 3 years. It is more than 99% effective. Most insurance plans cover Implanon. Without insurance, the cost is $700, which averages to about $20 per month making it a very affordable option over time. For more information, log onto www.IMPLANON-USA.com |
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NuvaRing® - A clear flexible ring that is inserted vaginally. Hormones are released continuously for three weeks and the ring is removed during the week of your period. Every four weeks a new ring must be inserted in order to be effective. The NuvaRing® is usually started on the Sunday during a period or the Sunday after an abortion. Side effects are similar to oral contraceptives. For more information, log onto www.nuvaring.com |
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Diaphragm - A barrier method of contraception that requires a fitting. A diaphragm must be inserted before every act of intercourse and left in place for 6-8 hours before removing. Contraceptive gel must be used with a diaphragm in order for it to be effective. Women can be fitted for diaphragms for a nominal fee. |
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IUD (Intra-uterine Device) - An IUD is a long-term method of birth control that is reversible. There are two types of IUDs - one that contains hormones, and one that does not. Some IUDs can be left in place for 10 years or more. AWC charges $500 - $600 for IUDs - spread out over several years, this is a very affordable method of contraception. IUDs are usually inserted during a period or at a follow-up exam after an abortion. Preliminary STD and Pap testing must be completed prior to inserting IUDs. For more information, log onto www.paragardIUD.com or www.mirena-us.com |
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Emergency Contraceptive Pills ("Morning-After Pills") - An emergency form of contraception which must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse. ECPs are 75-95% effective at preventing pregnancy. Call AWC immediately at 877 DIAL AWC if you need ECPs. AWC uses Plan B® for emergency contraception. For more information, log onto www.go2planb.com/consumer_guide/ |
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Norplant® - Contraceptive implants that can be left in place for approximately 5 years. Side effects are similar to Depo-Provera®. AWC provides referrals for Norplant® providers in the Northeast Pennsylvania region. For more information, log onto www.norplantinfo.com/index.htm |
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Condoms and Spermicides - Barrier methods of contraception that are very effective if used properly during every act of intercourse. Using a spermicide such as VCF® while using a condom provides additional contraceptive benefits. For more information, log onto www.apothecus.com/background.htm |
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Sterilization - The only permanent form of contraception for either women or men. AWC provides information and referrals for both tubal ligation and vasectomy procedures. |
