BIRTH CONTROL METHODS

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So Many Options

Which to Choose?

Choosing a birth control method can be overwhelming, and birth control is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Our healthcare providers will talk you through each option so you can choose the method that works for you. Explore your birth control options below and find a clinic near you to talk to a provider about your options.

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Method Effectiveness

70% — 100%

Hormone Free

Administered By

Easy To Hide (Discrete)

Combined Oral Contraceptives

Also called “The Pill,” combined oral contraceptives contain the hormones estrogen and progestin. It is prescribed by a doctor. A pill is taken at the same time each day. If you are older than 35 years and smoke, have a history of blood clots or breast cancer, your doctor may advise you not to take the pill. 93% effective.

  • Effective - 93
  • Hormone Free - No
  • Administered By - Self
  • Prevents STI - No
  • Discrete - Yes

Progestin-Only Pill

Unlike the combined pill, the progestin-only pill (sometimes called the mini-pill) only has one hormone, progestin, instead of both estrogen and progestin. It is prescribed by a doctor. It is taken at the same time each day. It may be a good option for patients who can’t take estrogen. 93% effective.

  • Effective - 93
  • Hormone Free - No
  • Administered By - Self
  • Prevents STI - No
  • Discrete - Yes

Contraceptive Ring

The ring releases the hormones progestin and estrogen. You place the ring inside your vagina. You wear the ring for three weeks, take it out for the week you have your period, and then put in a new ring. 93% effective.

  • Effective - 93
  • Hormone Free - No
  • Administered By - Self
  • Prevents STI - No
  • Discrete - Yes

Hormonal Patch

This skin patch is worn on the lower abdomen, buttocks, or upper body (but not on the breasts). This method is prescribed by a doctor. It releases hormones progestin and estrogen into the bloodstream. You put on a new patch once a week for three weeks. During the fourth week, you do not wear a patch, so you can have a menstrual period. 93% effective.

  • Effective - 93
  • Hormone Free - No
  • Administered By - Self
  • Prevents STI - No
  • Discrete - Yes

Implant

The implant is a single, thin rod that is inserted under the skin of a patient’s upper arm. The rod contains a progestin that is released into the body over 3 years. 99% effective.

  • Effective - 99
  • Hormone Free - No
  • Administered By - Healthcare Provider
  • Prevents STI - No
  • Discrete - Yes

Injection Or “Shot”

Patients get shots of the hormone progestin in the buttocks or arm every three months from their doctor. 96% effective.

  • Effective - 96
  • Hormone Free - No
  • Administered By - Healthcare Provider
  • Prevents STI - No
  • Discrete - Yes

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