Birth Control Methods

Cervical Cap or Diaphragm

• Insert into the vagina before sex
• Used with spermicide
• 14-29 of 100 can get pregnant using this method

+ 5

Combined Pill

• Take by mouth once a day
• Can make periods lighter or more predictable
• 2 hormones (estrogen + progestin)
• 7 of 100 can get pregnant using this method*

Contraceptive Gel

• Placed in vagina before sex
• Kills or blocks sperm from reaching an egg
• Works best with a barrier method
• 21 out of 100 can get pregnant using this method*

Emergency Contraception

• In pill or IUD form
• Use up to 5 days after unprotected sex
• Helps prevent pregnancy
• Works best the sooner it's used

Patch

• Worn on skin and changed weekly
• Start and stop on your own
• Can make periods lighter or more predictable
• 7 out of 100 can get pregnant using this method*

Progestin-only Pill

• Take once a day at the same time
• Option for people who need or want to avoid estrogen
• 1 hormone (progestin)
• 7 of 100 can get pregnant using this method*

Ring

• Inserted into vagina and sits inside body
• Can be replaced monthly or used continuously
• Help to regulate periods, can be used to treat acne
• 7 out of 100 can get pregnant using this method*

Shot

• Given every 3 months
• Can take up to 18 months for return to fertility
• Lighter or no periods possible
• When prescribed online, it is a self-administered shot
• 4 out of 100 can get pregnant using this method*

Spermicide

• Gel or foam placed in vagina before sex
• Kills or blocks sperm from reaching an egg
• Works best with a barrier method
• 21 out of 100 can get pregnant using this method*