WMCHealth provides comprehensive family planning services. Our leading OB/GYNs and specialists are here for all your needs, whether you want to hold off on starting a family, are in the planning process, or are struggling with infertility. Our family planning services include birth control and contraceptives, pregnancy counseling, and infertility treatments.
Contraception
Contraceptives are methods to prevent pregnancy, and some can even prevent the transmission of STIs. There are many different types of birth control. Our doctors will discuss the various options to see what would work best for your body and lifestyle.
There are four main types of birth control. These include:
- Barrier methods, such as condoms, sponges, spermicide, or diaphragm
- Hormonal methods, which include oral medications, the patch, vaginal ring, injections, or implant
- Long-term reversible methods, like an intrauterine device, also known as IUD
- Permanent methods such as tubal ligation
Some of these have higher success rates than others and only a few actively prevent STIs, so make sure to discuss your choice with your doctor.
Preconception Counseling
WMCHealth offers preconception services to help prepare you for pregnancy. Counseling will also help reduce the risk of complications.
During your appointment, your doctor will ask about your medical and family histories to assess potential pregnancy risks. Your doctor may also recommend a few lifestyle changes that could increase your chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy pregnancy.
Counseling can offer guidance on the following:
- Vaccinations
- The best time to try to conceive
- A safe time to try for another baby
- How to manage current or preexisting medical conditions
- Whether you should consider genetic testing based on your medical and family history
- They may also refer you to any specialists you may need to see given your health or other circumstances.
Fertility
Infertility issues can be extremely challenging, but WMCHealth has experienced professionals who can help you navigate your options. With compassion and expertise, our specialists can help you select the best option, including:
- Fertility counseling
- Fertility conservation
WMCHealth also provides a full spectrum of fertility treatments, including:
- In vitro fertilization
- Fertility medications
- Intrauterine insemination
- Surgery to restore fertility
A combination of treatments may be used in certain circumstances. Our experts are here to guide you through the entire process to ensure you have the optimal chance of starting a family.
Reproductive Genetics
Genetic counselors are medical professionals with specialized training regarding genetics. They can be part of the preconception counseling process if you have concerns about your family history or are having infertility issues. They will help guide and support you as you decide about genetic testing.
You may want to consider genetic testing if you:
- Are planning to become pregnant
- Have had two or more miscarriages
- Are pregnant over the age of 35
- Have an abnormality in your pregnancy ultrasound
- Already have a child with a genetic condition or birth defect
- Have a concern about birth defects or inherited genetic conditions based on your family history