IUD

An IUD is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUDs: Non-Hormonal and Hormonal. IUDs don’t protect against STIs; use condoms or other barrier methods for STI protection. 

NON-HORMONAL IUD

ParaGard (Copper IUD TCu-380A) ~ 10 years for contraception 

The Good Stuff

The copper IUD is a great birth control option with lots of benefits!

• Super easy – Once it’s in, you don’t have to think about it.
• No interruptions – Doesn’t get in the way during sex.
• Lasts a long time – Provides years of protection with little effort.
• Safe for many people – Even if you smoke or have high blood pressure or diabetes.
• No hormones – Won’t affect your natural hormone levels.
• Safe while breastfeeding – No impact on milk supply.
• Can be placed right after birth or an abortion – No waiting required.
• Works as emergency birth control if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex.
• Private – No one has to know you have it (though a partner might feel the strings).
• Fertility returns quickly – You can get pregnant right after removal if you want to.
• Won’t change your period schedule – You’ll still get your period as usual.

The Not-So-Great Stuff

Some side effects can happen, especially in the first few months:

• Heavier or longer periods (this usually gets better over time).
• Spotting between periods.
• Cramps or backaches, especially during your period.

If side effects bother you, your doctor may suggest waiting a few months to see if they improve. But you can remove the IUD anytime! Just remember, if you don’t want to get pregnant after removal, you’ll need another form of birth control.

Rare But Serious Risks

Serious problems are rare, but it’s good to know the signs:

• The IUD could slip out (expulsion) or move.
• Infections can happen after placement.
• If pregnancy happens with an IUD, it can be risky

Call your doctor ASAP if you have:

• Heavy bleeding, severe cramps, unusual discharge, fever, or a positive pregnancy test.

A Few More Things to Keep in Mind

• Can be pricey – Depending on insurance or health coverage.
• Doesn’t protect against STIs – You may still need condoms.
• A doctor or nurse has to insert it for you.

HORMONAL IUD

Mirena (52mg Levonorgestrel) ~8 years for contraception and 5 years help with heavy periods

Liletta = 52mg Levonorgestrel ~ 8 years for contraception and 5 years help with heavy periods

Kyleena = 19.5mg Levonorgestrel ~ 5 years for contraception

Skyla = 13.5mg Levonorgestrel ~ 3 years for contraception

The Good Stuff

Hormonal IUDs have a lot of benefits for your body and sex life! Here’s why they might be a great choice:

• Easy to use – Once it’s in, you don’t have to think about it.
• Doesn’t interrupt sex – No need to pause in the moment.
• Long-lasting – Provides birth control for years with little effort.
• Safe for many people – Good option even if you smoke, have high blood pressure, or diabetes.
• May make periods easier – Can lighten your period, reduce cramps, or even stop your period completely.
• Safe while breastfeeding – No issues if you’re nursing.
• Can be placed right after birth or an abortion – No waiting necessary.
• Works as emergency contraception – Can prevent pregnancy if placed within 5 days after unprotected sex.
• Discreet – Easy to keep private from family or roommates (though a partner might feel the strings).
• Fertility returns quickly – If you want to get pregnant after removing the IUD, you can try right away.

The Not-So-Good Stuff

Side effects are possible, but most people adjust within a few months. Common side effects include:

• Spotting between periods (especially at first).
• Cramps and backaches.
• Partner may feel the strings during sex.

If you’re experiencing side effects, your doctor might suggest waiting a few months to see if they improve. However, you can remove the IUD anytime for any reason. If you don’t want to get pregnant after removal, you’ll need another form of birth control.

Rare But Serious Risks

In rare cases, some people may have serious complications, such as:

• The IUD slipping out or moving inside the uterus.
• Infection after placement.
• Complications if you get pregnant while the IUD is in place.

Signs of a serious problem include:

• Heavy bleeding, severe cramps, pain, unusual discharge, fever, or a positive pregnancy test.
  If you notice any of these, contact your doctor or seek emergency care right away.

Other Downsides

• Partner may feel the strings during sex.
• Does not protect against STIs.
• Requires a doctor’s visit to get one placed.

Nexplanon

Etonogestrel Implant (Nexplanon)

• Nexplanon is a single rod radiopaque implant containing 68mg of etonogestrel.
• Release 30-50mcg of etonogestrel daily
• It is the most effective birth control method (failure rate 0.05%). Approved for 3 years of use.

The Good Stuff

The implant is a great birth control option with many benefits:

• No interruptions during sex – You don’t have to stop or plan ahead.
• Fewer, lighter periods – Many people have lighter or no periods.
• Long-lasting – Works for up to three years without needing to remember anything
• Breastfeeding-friendly – Won’t affect your milk supply.
• No estrogen – Good option if you can’t take estrogen-based birth control.
• May help with PMS and endometriosis symptoms.

The Not-So-Great Stuff

Side effects are possible, but most people adjust after a few months. The most common side effect is irregular bleeding, which can mean:

• Spotting between periods
• Longer or heavier periods
• No periods at all

It’s hard to predict how your periods will change, and for some people, irregular bleeding lasts as long as they have the implant. If having a regular period is important to you, the implant might not be the best fit.

Less Common Side Effects

Some people may also experience: Acne, Changes in appetite or sex drive, Anxiety or mood changes, Headaches, Nausea, Hair loss, Sore breasts, Pain where the implant was placed, Skin discoloration or small scars over the implant

In rare cases, the implant could move, cause nerve injury, or be difficult to remove.

Things to Consider

• Not completely hidden – You might feel or see the implant under your skin.
• Doctor’s visit needed – A provider must insert and remove it.
• No STI protection – Use condoms if you need protection against STIs.

Depo Provera

Medroxyprogesterone Acetate – Depo-Provera (DMPA) 150 mg IM q 12 weeks

What to Expect with the Birth Control Shot (DMPA)

Hey there! If you’re using the birth control shot (DMPA), here’s what you should know about irregular bleeding—it’s totally normal and not harmful!

The good news? Around half of people using the shot for a year stop having periods completely (which many see as a bonus!).

Spotting & Bleeding: What’s Normal?

• Light spotting or unpredictable bleeding is common, but most people don’t find it bothersome.
• If needed, ibuprofen (NSAIDs) or a short course of low-dose estrogen can help

Other Things to Know

• No periods? About 12% of people stop having periods within 3 months, and nearly half stop after a year—this is safe and expected!
• Bone health? The shot can temporarily lower bone density, but it recovers once you stop. No need for bone scans (DEXA).
• Weight changes? Some people gain weight, but it varies. Studies show mixed results.
• Mood changes? Most people don’t notice a difference, but if you have a history of depression, your doctor may want to check in with you. 

Why People Love the Shot!

• Super easy – One shot covers three months!
• No daily reminders – Just show up for your next shot.
• Private – No one knows unless you tell them.
• May stop periods – Many find this a big plus!
• Estrogen-free – Safe for those who can’t take estrogen.
• Safe while breastfeeding

A Few Downsides

• No STI protection – Use condoms if needed.
• Requires a doctor visit every 3 months.
• Once you get the shot, it stays in your system—side effects may take time to wear off.

Bottom Line

Irregular bleeding is normal with the shot and usually gets better over time. If it’s bothering you, there are easy ways to manage it—just check in with your provider.

The Patch

How Well Does the Patch Work?

There are different patch brands with effectiveness of preventing pregnancy ranging from 90-99%. Speak to your healthcare provider on the different brands. 

There are also specific weight cut-offs. For example, Xulane and Zafemy may not work as well if you weigh over 198 pounds, and Twirla may not be as effective if your BMI is 25 or higher.

The Perks of the Patch

• It’s super easy to use—just stick it on like a Band-Aid!
• No mood-killing interruptions—it doesn’t get in the way of the moment.
• Can make your periods lighter and more regular.
• May help clear up acne.
• Only need to remember it once a week, not every day like the pill.
• Offers protection against some health issues, like ovarian cysts, anemia, and even certain cancers.
• You can stop anytime—just peel it off and you’re done!

Things to Consider

• Temporary side effects (usually go away in a few months):
  • Spotting between periods
  • Breast tenderness
  • Nausea
• Other possible downsides:
  • The patch can cause skin irritation where you put it.
  • It may change your sex drive.
  • It’s not very discreet—it’s visible on your skin.
  • It doesn’t protect against STIs, so you’ll still need condoms if that’s a concern.
• Serious but rare risks: The patch (like other hormonal birth control) can slightly increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack. If you ever have severe pain in your chest, head, abdomen, or legs, or sudden vision changes, get medical help right away.

The patch is a great option if you want a “set it and forget it” method, but like all birth control, it’s important to find what works best for YOU. Chat with your doctor if you have questions! 

Using the Patch: Easy-Peasy Guide!

The patch is super simple to use—just swap it out once a week on the same day, for three weeks in a row. Then, on the fourth week, you take it off and give your body a break (no new patch that week).

Example

Let’s say you put your first patch on Tuesday—that means Tuesday is now your “patch change day.” Every Tuesday, you’ll either put on a fresh patch or take it off for your week off.

Where to Stick It?

• Butt, Stomach or Torso (Not on your boobs) 
• Pick a comfy spot where it won’t get rubbed by clothes like your waistband or bra strap.

What Happens During Patch-Free Week?

You’ll probably get a period-like bleed. Even if you’re still bleeding when it’s time to put a new patch on, stick it on anyway—it’s totally normal!

When Does It Start Working?

• If you start the patch within five days of your period, you’re protected right away!
• If you start later, you’ll need to wait seven days before it’s fully effective—so use condoms or another backup method during that time.

Just stick it on, swap it out weekly, and enjoy the ease of once-a-week birth control!

Birth Control Pills: Easy, Effective & Totally Doable!

How It Works

Taking the birth control pill is super simple—just take one pill every day. The key? Remember to take it daily, no matter what! Set a phone reminder, pair it with brushing your teeth, or keep it next to your coffee mug—whatever helps!

Most pill packs have 28 days worth of pills. Some give you a monthly period, while others let you skip it entirely! There are even options where you only get your period every three months or once a year. Talk about convenience!

Making the Pill Work for You

• Take it at the same time every day—set a reminder!
  
• Keep condoms or another backup method handy, just in case.
• Have emergency contraception on hand for oops moments.

The Good Stuff: Health Benefits!

• Lighter periods (or no periods at all!)
• Less cramping & PMS
• Clearer skin
• Protection against ovarian & uterine cancer
• Helps prevent anemia & ovarian cysts

The Not-So-Fun Side Effects

Most people have little to no side effects, and if you do, they usually go away in a few months. Some possible ones:

• Spotting between periods
• Sore boobs
• Mild nausea
• Headaches

A few side effects might last longer, like changes in sex drive or skin darkening, but talk to your doctor if anything bothers you.

Serious (but rare) risks: Blood clots, stroke, or high blood pressure. If you have chest pain, severe headaches, vision changes, or leg pain, get medical help ASAP!

Which Pill is Right for You?

There are tons of options! Your doctor can help pick one based on what’s best for your body and lifestyle. Want to skip your period? Prefer a low-dose option? There’s a pill for that!

What If You Miss a Pill?

• Missed one pill? Take it ASAP and keep going!
• Missed two or more? You may need backup protection—check with your provider or the pill instructions.

The Bottom Line

Birth control pills are a safe, easy, and effective way to prevent pregnancy while offering extra perks like clearer skin and lighter periods. Just remember:

• Take it every day at the same time
• Use backup protection if needed
• Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you
• Does NOT protect against STIs—use condoms if needed!

If you ever want to stop, you can! But remember, you can get pregnant right away after stopping—so have a new plan ready if you’re not ready to get pregnant. 

Birth control should fit your life, not the other way around!

The Mini-Pill: A Tiny Pill with Big Protection!

Looking for a simple, estrogen-free birth control option? Meet the mini-pill, also known as the progestin-only pill (POP)! This little pill works by thickening cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg. But there’s a catch—you need to take it at the same time every day for it to be most effective.

Why Choose the Mini-Pill?

• No estrogen! Great for people who can’t or don’t want to use estrogen-based birth control.
• Easy to use. Just one pill a day!
• Safe & effective. One of the safest hormonal options with minimal restrictions.
• May help lighten periods or even stop them completely.
• Can be used while breastfeeding.

Options Available:

• Prescription Required: Brands like Ortho Micronor, Errin, Jolivette, Camila, Nora-BE, Nor-QD.
• A Different Option Prescription Required: Slynd (contains drospirenone, with a unique 24-day active/4-day placebo schedule).
• Over-the-Counter: Opill (no prescription needed!)

The Not-So-Fun Parts

Every method has pros and cons, and the mini-pill is no exception. Some things to keep in mind:

• Timing matters! Missing a pill—even by a few hours—can make it less effective.
• May cause spotting or irregular bleeding (especially in the first few months).
• Possible side effects include headaches, nausea, sore breasts, or acne, but they usually go away with time.
• Does NOT protect against STIs—so pair it with condoms for extra protection!

Bottom Line:

If you want a simple, hormone-friendly birth control option that doesn’t require estrogen, the mini-pill could be a great fit! Just remember to take it on time, every day for the best protection. Need something even easier? Opill is available without a prescription at your local pharmacy!

Want to learn more? Talk to your healthcare provider to find the best birth control for you!

The Vaginal Ring: Easy, Flexible, and Low-Maintenance Birth Control!

The vaginal ring is a small, flexible ring that you insert into your vagina once a month for birth control. It releases hormones to prevent pregnancy and is super easy to use! There are two main types:

• NuvaRing & EluRyng: Used for one month—wear it for three weeks, take it out for one week, then start a new one.
• Annovera: A reusable ring that lasts a whole year! You wear it for three weeks, take it out for one week, then pop the same ring back in after washing it.

How to Use the Ring

• Insert it: Squeeze the ring between your fingers and push it into your vagina as far as it comfortably goes. It’ll sit there doing its thing—no exact placement needed!
• Leave it in for three weeks. It’s designed to stay put, even during sex!
• Take it out for one week. This is when you’ll probably get a period-like bleed.
• Start a new ring (or reinsert Annovera) after seven days, even if you’re still bleeding.

Pro tip: Always insert and remove your ring on the same day of the week each month. (If you start on a Sunday, your schedule stays on Sundays!)

What If It Falls Out?

• If it slips out, rinse it with water and put it back in ASAP.
• If it’s been out for more than two hours (Annovera) or 48 hours (NuvaRing), you’ll need backup birth control (like condoms) for 7 days.

The Good Stuff About the Ring

•  Super easy to use—just set it and forget it for three weeks!
• Doesn’t interrupt sex (and most partners don’t even feel it).
• May make periods lighter, shorter, and less crampy.
• May help clear up acne and reduce PMS symptoms.
• Offers protection against ovarian and endometrial cancer, anemia, and cysts.
• Annovera lasts a whole year—no monthly refills needed!

The Not-So-Great Stuff

• Might cause temporary side effects like nausea, spotting, or breast tenderness
• (usually go away in a few months).
• May increase vaginal discharge (totally normal but can be annoying).
• Requires a prescription and doesn’t protect against STIs.

Bottom Line: The ring is a low-maintenance, flexible birth control option that gives you the convenience of once-a-month upkeep!

What You Need to Know!

If you’re looking for a forever birth control solution, sterilization might be an option for you! It’s one of the most common birth control methods worldwide and is used by millions of people. In the U.S., nearly half of married couples choose either female (tubal ligation) or male (vasectomy) sterilization.

Female Sterilization (Tubal Ligation & Salpingectomy)

• What is it? A procedure that closes or removes your fallopian tubes, so sperm and eggs can’t meet—no pregnancy, ever!

Types:

• Postpartum Sterilization – Done right after giving birth, often during a C-section or soon after vaginal delivery.
• Interval Sterilization – Done separately from pregnancy, usually through laparoscopy (a small surgery with tiny incisions).
• Salpingectomy – Removing the tubes completely (not just blocking them) can lower ovarian cancer risk!

Effectiveness & Risks

• Tubal sterilization is very effective, but in rare cases, the tubes might reconnect, leading to pregnancy.
• If pregnancy happens, there’s a higher chance it could be an ectopic pregnancy (which happens outside the uterus and is dangerous).
• Permanent! Reversals are expensive, not always successful, and can increase ectopic pregnancy risk.
• Younger women (<30 years old) have a higher risk of regret—up to 20% change their minds later.

Pros – Works for life—no daily pills or monthly refills!

• Hormone-free—great if you can’t use hormonal birth control.
• Can lower the risk of ovarian cancer (especially with full tube removal).

Cons

• Not reversible—you need to be 100% sure.
• Small risk of surgery complications (bleeding, infection, anesthesia reactions).
• If pregnancy happens, it’s more likely to be ectopic.

Male Sterilization (Vasectomy)

What is it? A quick, outpatient procedure where the vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm) are cut or blocked, so sperm doesn’t mix with semen—no sperm, no pregnancy!

Effectiveness & Risks

• Nearly 100% effective at preventing pregnancy!
• Some rare cases of the tubes reconnecting and sperm getting through.
• Not immediate—you need a follow-up test after 3 months to confirm there’s zero sperm in your semen.
• Some men might have temporary soreness or swelling after the procedure.

Pros & Cons – Works for life—no more birth control worries!

• No hormones—doesn’t affect sex drive or performance.
• Sex might be more fun since pregnancy is off the table!
• Not reversible (in most cases)—think carefully before deciding.
• Slight risk of complications, like swelling or infection.
• You still need backup birth control until a doctor confirms you’re sperm-free!

Is Sterilization Right for You?

Sterilization is a great one-and-done birth control method, but it’s permanent! If you’re sure you don’t want kids (or any more kids), it can be a fantastic option. But if you’re under 30, take extra time to think—regret is more common in younger people.

Final Tip: Talk to your doctor about your options. Every person’s situation is different, and the best birth control is the one that fits your life!

Simple, Safe & No Hormones!

Looking for a birth control method that’s hormone-free and easy to use? Barrier methods might be the perfect fit! These methods block sperm from reaching the egg, helping prevent pregnancy—and some even protect against STIs (sexually transmitted infections), too!

Male Condoms: The Classic Protector

• Protects against pregnancy AND STIs (including HIV!)
• Easy to find—available in stores, pharmacies, and even for free at some clinics!
• No prescription needed—just grab and go!
• Only use when needed—no daily routine required.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Must be used correctly every time for best effectiveness.
• Some people may be allergic to latex—but there are non-latex options!
• Can reduce sensitivity during sex for some people.

Typical use failure rate: 13% (So make sure to use them properly!)

Female Condoms: More Control, Same Protection

• Inserted up to 8 hours before sex for convenience.
• Helps protect against STIs and pregnancy.
• Gives the person with a vagina more control over protection.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Can be a little tricky to insert at first.
• Typical use failure rate: 21%

Diaphragm & Cervical Cap: Personalized Protection

• Covers the cervix to block sperm.
• Reusable—just insert before sex and remove after.
• Must be fitted by a doctor since they come in different sizes.

Typical use failure rate: 17%

The Sponge: Birth Control You Don’t Have to Think About During Sex

• Contains spermicide and sits over the cervix.
• Works for up to 24 hours!
• Must be left in for at least 6 hours after sex.

Typical use failure rate:

• 14% if you haven’t had a baby.
• 27% if you have had a baby.

Spermicides: Extra Protection with Other Methods

• Comes as gels, creams, films, or suppositories.
• Must be placed in the vagina before sex and left in for 6-8 hours after.
• Works best when used with condoms, diaphragms, or cervical caps.

Typical use failure rate: 21%

Fertility Awareness & Withdrawal: Natural, But Tricky!

• Fertility Awareness: Track ovulation using body signs (like temperature or cervical mucus) and avoid sex on fertile days.
• Withdrawal Method: The penis is pulled out before ejaculation.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Takes practice and must be done perfectly to be effective.
• Not as reliable as other methods.

Typical use failure rate:

• Fertility Awareness: 2-23%
• Withdrawal: 27%

Bottom Line

Barrier methods are great hormone-free options for birth control! Condoms are the only method that protects against both pregnancy AND STIs, so they’re a great choice for everyone! Want extra protection? Combine methods (like spermicide + condoms) for even better results.

Need help choosing? Talk to your healthcare provider to find the best method for you!