other contraceptive options
we have more options than ever to help prevent pregnancies. find an option that works for you!
birth control shot (depo-provera)
Depo-Provera is a birth control shot that you get every three months, making it a convenient option for those who want long-term protection without daily or monthly upkeep. It’s an injection of progestin, a hormone that prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus.
How It Works: Prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining.
Effectiveness: About 94% effective with typical use; when used perfectly (getting each shot on time), it can be over 99% effective.
Pros:
Only needs to be administered four times a year.
May reduce menstrual bleeding over time and is effective for managing conditions like endometriosis.
Cons:
Some users may experience side effects like weight gain, irregular bleeding, or bone density loss (with long-term use).
Fertility may take several months to return after stopping.
birth control ring (nuvaring or annovera)
The birth control ring is a small, flexible ring that you insert into your vagina once a month. It releases hormones to prevent pregnancy, similar to the pill and patch, by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. NuvaRing is worn for three weeks and then removed for one week to get your period, and then just pop in a new one the next month. Annovera is the same schedule, but the same device can be reused for up to a year.
Birth Control rings are low-maintenance and super convenient since they doesn’t require daily attention like the pill, making it a solid choice for people who want reliable birth control with a little more flexibility.
How It Works: Prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining.
Effectiveness: Approximately 91% effective with typical use. 99% effective if used perfectly.
Pros:
Easy to use, and users only need to remember it once a month.
Can help with menstrual regulation and reduce period pain.
Cons:
Similar hormonal side effects as the birth control pill
May be felt by some users during intercourse (though it can be removed for up to 3 hours without reducing effectiveness, just don’t forget to put it back in!)
birth control patch
The birth control patch is a simple, no-fuss option that you wear on your skin for a week at a time. It releases hormones (like the pill) to prevent pregnancy—stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. You wear one patch for a week on the lower abdomen, buttocks, or upper body (but not on the breasts), then swap it out for a new one every week for three weeks, and then take a patch-free week.
How It Works: Suppresses ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining.
Effectiveness: Around 91% effective with typical use.
Pros:
Convenient and only needs to be changed once a week.
Can regulate menstrual cycles and reduce period pain.
Cons:
Possible skin irritation from the adhesive.
Hormonal side effects like headaches, nausea, or breast tenderness.
Not recommended for people who have conditions where estrogen use is contraindicated.
Less effective with BMI > 30
external condom (male condom)
What It Is: A thin sheath worn on the penis during intercourse to prevent sperm from entering the vagina.
How It Works: Provides a physical barrier that blocks sperm from reaching the egg.
Effectiveness: Around 85% effective with typical use; can be 98% effective with perfect use.
Pros:
Protects against both pregnancy and many sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Available over the counter without a prescription.
Cons:
Must be used correctly and used every time, which can sometimes be a barrier to effectiveness.
Some users may experience sensitivity changes or latex allergies (non-latex options are available).
internal condom (female condom)
What It Is: A soft, flexible pouch that is inserted into the vagina before intercourse to block sperm.
How It Works: Serves as a barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the egg.
Effectiveness: Around 79% effective with typical use; 95% effective with perfect use.
Pros:
Protects against both pregnancy and STIs.
Can be inserted up to 8 hours before intercourse.
Cons:
Requires practice for correct use, and some users find it less convenient.
More expensive and less readily available than male condoms.
fertility awareness methods / natural family planning
Fertility Awareness Methods (FAM), also known as Natural Family Planning, involves tracking your menstrual cycle to figure out when you’re most fertile, and then either avoiding sex or using barrier methods like condoms during that time. While it's a hormone-free, totally natural option, it’s not the most effective birth control method. So, while it’s definitely better than nothing, it does require a lot of attention to detail and consistency. If you’re looking for a method that’s more about timing and less about hormones, it might work for you, but it’s important to know it’s not as reliable as other forms of birth control.
Effectiveness: Around 76-88% effective with typical use
effectiveness varies based on method and adherence.
Pros:
Hormone-free and involves learning about one's body and menstrual cycle.
Can also be used to help achieve pregnancy when desired.
Cons:
Requires diligent tracking, consistency, and understanding of cycle changes.
Less effective than other methods and does not protect against STIs
