Birth Control

Barrier methods of birth control (condoms, diaphragms, sponges, cervical caps) are used every time you have sex.

Internal and External condoms are the only contraceptive methods that offer protection from Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Condoms are not the most effective form of birth control. If you have sex, the best way to prevent both STIs and pregnancy is to use what is called “dual protection.” Dual protection means you use a condom to prevent STIs each time you have sex, and at the same time, you use a more effective birth control, such as birth control pills, an IUD, an implant, or birth control shots.

Please speak with your provider about your birth control and what can be used with it.

Hormonal methods of birth control (pill, patch, vaginal ring, shot, implant, hormonal intrauterine devices) use hormones to prevent pregnancy by blocking the release of eggs from the ovaries, thinning the lining of the uterus, or thickening the mucus in the cervix to help keep sperm from reaching the egg.

Hormonal birth control efficacy varies by method and typical use. Hormonal birth control may be affected by or affect other medications you take. Speak with your provider about choosing a hormonal birth control method that will work best for you.

Non-hormonal methods of birth control (Copper IUD, fertility awareness, and abstinence) may use lifestyle changes, barrier methods, or the copper intrauterine device (IUD) to prevent pregnancy.

There are many non-hormonal ways to prevent pregnancy. Lifestyle changes can include abstinence, withdrawal (pulling out), and fertility awareness.

Abstinence is the only 100% effective form of birth control, but that doesn’t work for everyone. Withdrawal is up to 78% effective if performed correctly. Fertility awareness based methods (FAMBs) require strict dedication with an average of 85% effectiveness with typical use, depending on the method. The copper IUD is up to 99% effective.

Speak with your provider to find what non-hormonal birth control method is right for you.

Sterilization (tubal ligation, vasectomy) is a permanent form of birth control. It is a permanent, safe, and effective surgical procedure that is 99% effective.

Sterilization is a permanent option. Sterilization may not be for you if:

• There’s a chance you would like to have children

• You’re being pressured to have this procedure by a partner, family member, or friend.

• You hope this procedure will solve temporary problems like marriage or sexual issues, short-term mental or physical illness, or monetary problems.

A tubal ligation is often called “Getting your tubes tied.” It is a procedure that permanently closes, cuts, or removes parts of the fallopian tubes. This surgery prevents sperm from being able to meet the egg in a person who can become pregnant.

A vasectomy is a procedure that permanently cuts or blocks the small tubes called “Vas Deferens” in the scrotum. This procedure prevents sperm from traveling out of the testes of the person who can cause a pregnancy.

Speak with your provider if sterilization is right for you.

Emergency contraception (EC) is birth control used by a person who can become pregnant after intercourse. ECs have varying ranges of effectiveness depending on the type and usage.

There are two types of EC: Copper IUD and Emergency contraceptive pills.

The Copper IUD can be inserted within five days of unprotected sex as an emergency contraceptive. The Copper IUD is highly effective as an emergency contraceptive and will provide years of contraception.

EC pill effectiveness varies by manufacturer. Most are effective when taken within 3-5 days of unprotected intercourse. The EC pill is a one-time-use contraceptive that generally prevents pregnancy by preventing ovulation.

Emergency contraceptives are not a form of abortion. They work similarly to traditional birth control by preventing ovulation or preventing sperm from meeting the egg. EC will not harm a pre-existing pregnancy.