• (Click on each birth control option to learn more)

  • The pill
    Highlights
    The pill is a term used for oral contraceptives that contain 1 or 2 hormones progestin and possibly estrogen. They work by preventing ovulation (keeping the ovaries from releasing eggs) and by thickening the cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to pass through.1
    Effectiveness2
    Over 99% effective when used correctly.
    Dosing1
    You take one pill every day.
  • The Patch
    Highlights
    The birth control patch is a thin, square patch that sticks to the skin and releases progesterone and estrogen hormones into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy. This combination of the hormones prevents ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries).1
    Effectiveness2
    99% effective when used correctly.
  • Diaphragm
    Highlights
    The diaphragm is a cup made of thin, fexible latex or silicone. It's placed inside your vagina and covers the cervix (the part of the uterus that opens into the vagina).This prevents sperm from getting in and fertilizing an egg. For added protection, spermicide is put inside the diaphragm before insertion. The diaphragm is fitted by your healthcare provider.2
    Effectiveness2
    84% effective when used correctly.
    Dosing1
    Used only when you have sex.
  • Vaginal Ring
    Highlights
    A small flexible circular ring that goes inside the vagina and slowly releases the hormones progestin and estrogen into the bloodstream. These hormones prevent ovulation (the release of eggs from the ovaries). The ring also thickens cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to pass through.3
    Effectiveness2
    More than 99% effective when used correctly.
    Dosing1
    Monthly. You insert the ring into your vagina, and it stays there for 3 weeks, then you remove it for a week.
  • IUD (Intrauterine Device)
    Highlights
    A quarter-sized piece of T-shaped plastic inserted inside the uterus by your healthcare provider to prevent pregnancy. Two types of IUDs are available: one releases the hormone progestin. The other is covered in copper. The copper-coated IUD works by preventing the sperm from fertilizing the egg. It may also make it harder for a fertilized egg to implant in the uterus. The progestin IUD prevents ovulation (by keeping the ovaries from releasing eggs) and thickens the cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to pass through.4
    Dosing1
    3, 5, or 10 years after insertion depending on which IUD you choose.4
  • Injection (Shot)
    Highlights
    The shot contains a long acting form of the hormone progestin that works by preventing ovulations (keeping the ovaries from releasing eggs). The progestin also thickens the cervical mucus, making it hard for the sperm to enter the uterus, and thins the lining of the uterus so that an egg will have a hard time attaching.5
    Effectiveness2
    More than 99% effective when used correctly.
    Dosing1
    Your healthcare provider gives you one shot every 3 months.