Newton-Wellesley

Newton-Wellesley Hospital | Patient Gateway

617-332-2345

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Family Planning

Family planning options and services have been made available in the U.S. since the early 20th century. The science behind it has only become better with time, providing women and families a variety of options to plan the size of their families. Despite this, however, a mere 10 years ago, almost 45% of the pregnancies in the US were unintended.

Family planning services include support for the need for women and families to determine their family size and the timing and spacing of their children. Well-thought-out family planning options ensure the health and well-being of women and, therefore, their families.

At Newton-Wellesley OB/GYN, our experienced and knowledgeable team of OB/GYN doctors are ideally placed to answer all your questions on what family planning options are available and best suited to you.

Why Family Planning is Important

On average, women spend about 3 to 5 years of their lives trying to get pregnant, being pregnant, or postpartum. The rest of their reproductive lives are spent trying to avoid getting pregnant, either because it is too early to have children or because they already have the family they planned. Family planning services are designed to ease this struggle, with the added benefit of focusing on Women’s Health. Family planning services include counseling and education for both men and women on reproductive life planning and fertility. It also includes:
  • Complete gynecological and breast examination
  • Screening and follow-ups for cervical cancer
  • Diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
  • Birth control counseling
  • Pregnancy testing and preconception care
  • HPV and other vaccinations

Avoiding Unintended Pregnancies

Most unintended pregnancies occur in women who do not use any contraceptives or misuse them. Knowledge about contraception or birth control is an essential part of family planning efforts. This not only avoids the occurrence of unintended pregnancies in adult women but also avoids teenage pregnancies. Unintended pregnancies, where too many children are too close in age, can have an adverse impact on the health of both mother and child. These include complications such as:
  • Low birth weight of the child
  • Shorter breastfeeding duration for each child
  • Higher risk of postpartum depression for the mother
  • Poor physical and mental development of the child

Preventing the Spread of STDs

Couples who use family planning measures avoid unintended pregnancies and reduce the risk of STDs and, therefore, infertility. However, it should be noted that a single solution may not be enough to protect couples from pregnancies and STDs. Choosing a dual protection strategy may be more effective for comprehensive protection. Your doctor can advise you on the best course of action for you. OB/GYN doctors at Newton-Wellesley can guide you with the information and support you need to ensure your protection strategy is successful.

Family Planning Services at Newton-Wellesley OB/GYN

Women who seek birth control options, management of unintended and abnormal pregnancies, contraception for women with complex medical issues can all depend on receiving respectful and compassionate care from the women’s health care experts at Newton-Wellesley OB/GYN.

Call us in Newton at (617) 332-2345 or in Walpole at (508) 668-5555 to schedule an appointment. For your convenience, you may also request an appointment online.