Birth Control

What you get

• Pill, patch, ring, or progestin-only — matched to your routine
• Blood-pressure screening before any estrogen-containing method
• Clinician re-check before every refill — never automatic
• Check-ins at months 1 and 3 to adjust together

Compare the methods

All four prevent pregnancy when used as directed. Your Clinician confirms which fits your routine and health history best.

No shot, implant, or IUD online — those are placed or given in person at our Denton clinic. Call (940) 257-2002 to book.

Safety screening first

Estrogen-containing methods can raise blood pressure. A recent reading is required before the combined pill, patch, or ring can be approved. If it is high, estrogen methods will not be approved — safer options will be discussed instead.

How to get a reading today

• Pharmacy: most pharmacies offer a free counter check or self-service cuff.
• Home cuff: sit quietly for 5 minutes, feet flat, arm supported at heart level, and take two readings a minute apart.
• Our Denton clinic: stop by during clinic hours for a reading.

Already have a recent reading? Share the numbers and date when you start — your Clinician confirms it is current enough.

Migraine with aura: estrogen methods are usually not recommended when you have migraine with aura, because of stroke risk. Your Clinician will usually discuss progestin-only options, or ask for a video visit. We also screen for blood-clot history, smoking over age 35, liver concerns, and breast cancer history before any estrogen method.

Starting and settling in

When it starts working depends on the method and where you are in your cycle. Your Clinician gives exact start and backup guidance for your date — follow it closely in your first cycle.

The first 1–3 months can bring spotting, changed bleeding, tenderness, nausea, or mood shifts. These often settle by month 3. Your check-ins are built for this — tell us how you feel and we adjust together. Tell your Clinician which bleeding pattern you can live with — some methods lighten periods, others spot at first.

Missed a dose or changed a patch late? Follow the backup guidance your Clinician gave you, and message us if you are unsure.

Frequently asked questions

Can I switch methods or restart after a break?

Yes. Share your past methods, any side effects, and the routine you can actually keep. Restarting needs a fresh review, not an automatic refill, with safe start and backup guidance for the switch.

Can I pause or stop my method anytime?

Yes — pausing, skipping, or stopping is your call. Tell us before you stop so we can talk through pregnancy planning, what to expect as your cycle returns, and next options.

Does hormonal birth control protect against infections?

No. It prevents pregnancy only. Condoms remain the protection against sexually transmitted infections.

What if I might already be pregnant?

Pause here and start with a pregnancy test or in-person care first. Ongoing prevention planning can follow once pregnancy is ruled out. Call (940) 257-2002 or visit our Denton clinic for next steps.