Family Planning Specialist

As a leading primary care practice serving uninsured patients in San Pedro, CA, and the surrounding Los Angeles and South Bay areas, Harbor Community Health Centers offers comprehensive family planning services to help patients take control of their lives, their health and their futures.

What kinds of family planning services does Harbor Community Health Centers offer?

At Harbor Community Health Centers, we offer a full array of family planning services, including:

• family planning and birth control counseling

• access to a variety of birth control options

• pregnancy testing and counseling

Our staff is experienced in helping women understand their options when it comes to birth control and pregnancy, and all care is provided with a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach. All our family planning services are offered to both teens and adults in a confidential setting where patients can feel secure.

How can I decide which type of birth control is right for me?

Today, there are many different types of birth control, and choosing the right one for your needs begins with a physical evaluation and a discussion of your lifestyle and your preferences. While many women prefer to take birth control pills, others prefer the convenience of the IUD or the use-it-when-you-need-it approach of a diaphragm. Still, others prefer the newer arm implants that release birth control medicine over time. During your visit at the clinic, you'll learn about all your birth control options as well as the advantages of each so you can make the best, most informed decision based on your needs and preferences.

How is an IUD inserted?

IUDs, or intrauterine devices, are small, T-shaped devices that are implanted in your uterus during a simple, in-office procedure. During the procedure, you'll lie on your back just as you would do for a pelvic exam. A speculum will be used to widen your vagina, and the IUD will be inserted into your uterus through your cervix. The entire procedure takes just a few minutes. IUDs have a long, thin, plastic “tail” that extends into the vagina. Before having sex, you should feel for this tail to ensure your IUD is in position and hasn't fallen out.