iowa womens health center logo

4207 GLASS RD NE, Suite #2

Cedar Rapids, IA 52402

8:00AM – 5:00PM Monday – Thursday
Friday 8:00AM – NOON

Advanced gynecology

30 Years experience

Contraception & Birth Control

types of contraception on white table

There are many methods of contraception available for women in the Cedar Rapids and Iowa area, including:

Contraception options:

  • Long-acting, reversible contraception – the implant or intrauterine device (IUD).
  • Hormonal contraception – The pill or the Depo Provera injectable
  • Condoms – Barrier methods
  • Emergency contraception
  • Fertility awareness
  • Permanent contraception: vasectomy and tubal-ligation.

What is a Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive?

LARC (long-acting, reversible contraception) is long-lasting.

There are two types LARC.

  • The intrauterine device lasts three, five, or ten years.
  • The implant lasts 3 years.

You don’t have to remember to use contraception every day, or every month, once you have a LARC.

LARCs are the most effective form of contraception. They prevent pregnancy by more than 99%.

What are Hormonal Contraceptives?

These contraceptives are hormone-based and prevent pregnancy.
The Pill, Vaginal Ring, and Depo Provera injection are hormonal contraceptives.

There are two types of pills:

  • Combination oral contraceptive pill
  • Progestogen-only contraceptive pill

One pill is taken each day. It is more effective than 99 percent in preventing pregnancy if you take it correctly.

Depo Provera is an injection that you receive every three months. Depo Provera works better if you receive your injections in time.

What are Barrier Methods?

Sperm cannot enter the vagina through barrier methods. These are the two barriers:

  • Condoms for internal use (Female Condoms)

Condoms are effective in protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unintended pregnancy.

What is an Emergency Contraception?

Two options exist for emergency contraception: the ECP (emergency contraceptive pill) and a copper IUD.

ECP can only be used up to three days after unprotected sexual activity. The ECP is 98% effective if you are a normal weight. The ECP is less effective if you are heavier than 70kg. A copper IUD is recommended. If you are over 70kg and decide to take ECP you should consider whether a double dose would be a good option.

Copper IUDs can be placed up to five days after unprotected sexual activity and are more than 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy If:

  • You have not used protection
  • your normal contraception fails e.g. Condom splitting
  • You have probably missed more than one contraceptive tablet
  • You have experienced diarrhoea or vomiting while taking the pill
  • You have missed your injection
  • You have been forced to have sex with someone without contraception.

ECP is not recommended as a regular contraceptive method. It’s less effective than using LARC or hormonal methods.

What is Fertility Awareness?

Fertility awareness refers to being aware of the signs and symptoms of fertility in your menstrual cycle. This will help you plan or obstruct a pregnancy.

What is Permanent Contraception?

Sterilization, also known as permanent contraception, is a method that prevents future pregnancies. It can be very difficult, or even impossible to reverse. A vasectomy, or tubal ligation, can be permanent options.

How Do I Make an Appointment?

Making an appointment is easy! Just give us a call at 319-200-5900 and we will set you up with one of trained staff members to talk with you. If this is your first time visisting us please fill out a New Client Form.

How Do I Make an Appointment?
How to make an appointment: Please call 319-200-5900 and one of our staff members would be happy to get you scheduled. You may also request an appointment via our online portal at (insert portal link-25012.portal.Athenahealth.com
How Do I Cancel my Appointment?
How to cancel an appointment: Please call 319-200-5900 and we would be happy to reschedule or cancel your appointment. We do require 24 hour notice if possible. 
How Do I Order Refill of my Prescription?
How do I request a refill: Please call your pharmacy and let them know you need a refill of your medication. They will then send us the information directly, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in the refill process. Refill requests can take up to 48 business hours from the date of request to be reviewed. 
How Do I Update my Information on File?
How do I update my information? You are welcome to login to our patient portal at (insert link) or give us a call at 319-200-5900 and our staff members are happy to get that information updated for you in our system.
Iowa Women's Health Center

Creating Happier & Healthier Lives for Iowa Women

Iowa Women’s Health Center is interested in talking to you about your decision when choosing which medical options are best for you.  IWHC is an advanced women’s health clinic located in Cedar Rapids, IA. We service all women through central Iowa and in neighboring states for progressive and advanced gynecological care.

We provide the latest and least invasive women’s health medicine throughout Linn County.

Please bear in mind that the best medicine is preventative medicine. IWHC is currently accepting clients so we may help you in that pursuit of a healthier and happier life.

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