Fact Sheet
Birth Control Options for Women Over 40
There are more contraception options than ever available to women over 40.
A Family Complete
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Congratulations. You just sent your middle child off to kindergarten. Your oldest is fully embracing all junior high has to offer. It's you and your new baby at home, and your family is complete. You've also just celebrated your 40th birthday, and it may be time to rethink your birth control.
In order to prevent pregnancy, women over 40 should continue to use birth control into menopause, but there are many options from which to choose.
Sterilization
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This is the most popular form of birth control for women over 40. The newest form of sterilization, approved by the FDA in 2002, is called Essure. Essure can be performed in a doctor's office in less than an hour. Unlike a traditional tubal ligation, this procedure does not require a surgeon's scalpel. Instead, the doctor places small micro-inserts through the vagina and uterus into the fallopian tubes. Over the next several weeks, these inserts help form a natural barrier than will prevent your partner's sperm from reaching your egg. This procedure is not reversible.
During a traditional tubal ligation, a doctor will cut, tie or clamp your fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from reaching your uterus. Tubal ligation is done in the hospital under general anesthesia, but recovery time is usually only 24 hours.
Oral Contraceptives
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It was once believed that women over 35 should not use oral contraceptives, otherwise known as "the pill." However, some newer brands offer a lower dosage of estrogen than their predecessors, and some doctors do consider it to be a good alternative for healthy women over 40 who don't smoke and maintain a healthy body weight. Other doctors remain more cautious.
Intrauterine Device
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Today's IUDs are safer and more effective than those in years past. IUDs are small, "T-shaped" devices made of flexible plastic. A doctor will insert the IUD into your uterus. Two brands of IUDs are now available in the United States--ParaGard and Mirena. Both products affect the way sperm move, preventing them from joining with an egg, and therefore preventing pregnancy.
A Word of Caution
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Each of these options has both risks and benefits that should be discussed with your doctor.
