Family planning allows couples and individuals the ability to control the number, timing, and spacing of children. This is an essential element in the health and well-being of women.

The UF Health Women's Center offers counseling, initiation, and monitoring of all major contraceptive methods. We have the expertise to provide the medical evaluation and counseling to allow the individual woman to choose the most appropriate contraceptive method based on her individual lifestyle, beliefs, and medical conditions. This maximizes the probability that the chosen method will be successful.

Our providers recognize the importance of evaluating all factors which play a role in making the best choice, including:

• Effectiveness of each method
• Convenience
• Duration of action
• Reversibility and time to return of fertility
• Effect on uterine bleeding
• Frequency of side effects and adverse events
• Affordability
• Sexually transmitted disease protection
• Medical contraindications
• Medical conditions which may require closer monitoring

We consider all these factors and, with the individual patient, help them choose an optimal family planning method. Available options include:

• Oral contraceptives, both combined and progesterone only
• Injectables, such as Depo Provera
• Hormonal implants and patches
• Contraceptive vaginal rings
• Barrier methods, including condoms, diaphragms and cervical caps
• Natural family planning methods
• Permanent sterilization, including post partum and laparoscopic female tubal occlusion