Your body, your birth control. Find what works for you!
Choosing a method of birth control can be difficult, and with tons choices available today it can be a bit overwhelming to decide. We’ve created these summaries to help answer some basic questions and better equip you to speak with your doctor about what’s right for you.
For more information on birth control methods in general, visit:
CDC
US Office on Women’s Health
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods of contraception create a physical barrier preventing the movement of sperm. They can be bought at most drug stores and do not require a prescription. Condoms are the only method capable of preventing STIs (sexually transmitted infections). The Copper IUD (discussed below) is also considered a barrier method.
External / male condom – A flexible sleeve fitted over the penis to prevent contact with semen. Latex condoms can prevent STIs as well as pregnancy. Only use water-based lubricant with latex condoms, as oil-based lubricants (including lotions and petroleum jelly) can cause the latex to break. Non-latex condoms are also available, but certain materials may not be effective protection against STIs. Do not use more than one condom at a time–this increases the likelihood of a condom breaking.
Internal / female condom – Similar to a male condom, but larger and placed inside the vagina. Can prevent STIs as well as pregnancy. Do not use more than one condom at a time–this increases the likelihood of a condom breaking.
Diaphragm, cervical cap, or sponge – These are slightly different cup-shaped devices inserted into the vagina along with spermicide to block sperm. They are not very effective compared to other forms of contraception.
Spermicides – Gels, films, suppositories, etc., used to stop the movement of sperm. Each spermicide may have different instructions regarding how long before sex they should be used and when they should be removed in order to be most effective. Spermicides are not very effective on their own, so it is best to use them as an addition to another method of birth control.
Hormonal Methods
Hormonal methods that are used on a schedule may be ineffective if the schedule is not strictly followed.
Combined oral contraceptives (the pill) – The pill must be taken daily, and contains the hormones estrogen and progestin. It is prescribed by a doctor.
For more information on the pill, visit:
Mayo Clinic
Progestin-only pill (mini-pill) – This pill only contains progestin rather than both estrogen and progestin. Like the typical pill, it must be taken daily and is prescribed by a doctor.
Implant – The implant is a thin rod that is inserted into the upper arm and releases progestin, lasting up to 3 years.
For more information on the contraceptive implant, visit:
Mayo Clinic
Injection / Shot / Depo-Provera – Progestin is injected into the buttocks or arm every three months by a doctor.
For more information on the shot, visit:
Mayo Clinic
Patch – The skin patch is worn on the body (often on the stomach, back, or buttocks) and releases hormones progestin and estrogen. This method is prescribed by a doctor. The patch is replaced with a new patch each week for three weeks, and is typically not worn during week four for menstruation.
For more information on the contraceptive patch, visit:
Mayo Clinic
Planned Parenthood
Hormonal vaginal contraceptive ring – The ring is placed inside the vagina and releases the hormones progestin and estrogen. A ring is worn for three weeks, removed during the week of menstruation, and then replaced with a new ring. Some types of ring should not be used with oil- or silicone-based based lubricants.
For more information on contraceptive rings, visit:
Planned Parenthood
Emergency contraception – Emergency contraception is used as soon as possible (within 5 days) after sex to prevent pregnancy before it happens. Methods include pills or a copper IUD. Emergency contraception should not be frequently relied on instead of other birth control methods.
Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy before it occurs. Emergency contraception does not terminate a pregnancy.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
Intrauterine devices, or IUDs, are T-shaped devices placed in the uterus by a doctor. After insertion, the patient should not notice the IUD, and the only regular action required is a monthly self-check that the strings attached to the IUD are in place. An IUD can last several years and has a failure rate of less than 1%. Some women’s clinics, including Planned Parenthood, may offer IUDs to young adults for little to no cost.
Levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUD) / Hormonal IUD
A hormonal IUD releases progestin. Popular brands include Mirena (lasts 5-7 years) and Skyla (lasts 3 years).
For more information on hormonal IUDs, visit:
Mayo Clinic
Copper T / ParaGard / Non-hormonal IUD
Copper creates a reaction that is toxic to sperm and eggs. This IUD can stay in your uterus for up to 10 years and can also be used as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days after unprotected sex.
For more information on copper IUDs, visit:
Mayo Clinic