Birth Control. What are my Options?

Birth control methods come in various forms. Below we list several options, brand, and their pros and cons. Please consult with your OBGYN or Primary Care physician before making a decision about your birth control method.

*The information below is meant to provide an overview of options and is not intended to be comprehensive.

1. Oral Contraceptives (The Pill)

   • Popular Brands: Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Yaz, Alesse, Loestrin

   • Pros:

     • Regular menstrual cycles.

     • Can reduce acne.

     • Can decrease menstrual cramps.

   • Cons:

     • Must be taken daily.

     • Can cause side effects like weight gain, mood swings, and nausea.

     • Doesn't protect against STIs.

   • Facts: They work by preventing ovulation.

2. Contraceptive Patch

   • Popular Brands: Xulane, Ortho Evra

   • Pros:

     • Weekly application.

     • Can regulate menstrual cycles.

   • Cons:

     • Skin irritation.

     • Doesn't protect against STIs.

     • Similar side effects as the pill.

   • Facts: The patch releases hormones into the bloodstream through the skin.

3. Vaginal Contraceptive Ring

   • Popular Brands: NuvaRing

   • Pros:

     • Monthly application.

     • Can be controlled by the user.

   • Cons:

     • Can cause vaginal irritation.

     • Doesn't protect against STIs.

   • Facts: The ring releases estrogen and progestin to prevent ovulation.

4. Contraceptive Injections

   • Popular Brands: Depo-Provera

   • Pros:

     • Administered every 3 months.

     • Can be used while breastfeeding.

   • Cons:

     • Can cause weight gain.

     • Possible decrease in bone density.

     • Doesn't protect against STIs.

   • Facts: The shot contains progestin which prevents ovulation.

5. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

   • Popular Brands: Mirena (hormonal), ParaGard (copper), Skyla, Kyleena

   • Pros:

     • Long-lasting (3-10 years depending on the type).

     • Highly effective.

     • Can be used as emergency contraception (especially copper IUD).

   • Cons:

     • Can cause cramping or discomfort during insertion.

     • Doesn't protect against STIs.

     • Potential for heavier periods (especially with copper IUDs).

   • Facts: Hormonal IUDs release progestin, while the copper IUD releases copper to act as a spermicide.

6. Contraceptive Implant

   • Popular Brands: Nexplanon

   • Pros:

     • Lasts up to 4 years.

     • Highly effective.

     • Can be used while breastfeeding.

   • Cons:

     • Can cause irregular bleeding.

     • Doesn't protect against STIs.

   • Facts: The implant is a small rod that's inserted into the arm and releases progestin.

7. Barrier Methods

   • Popular Brands: Trojan, Durex (condoms), Diaphragm (Caya)

   • Pros:

     • Condoms protect against STIs.

     • No hormonal side effects.

   • Cons:

     • Can break or slip (especially condoms).

     • Requires use with every sexual act.

   • Facts: They prevent sperm from meeting an egg.

8. Emergency Contraceptive Pills

   • Popular Brands: Plan B One-Step, Ella, Take Action

   • Pros:

     • Can be taken after unprotected intercourse.

   • Cons:

     • The more effective the sooner it's taken.

     • Potential side effects like nausea or vomiting.

     • Not as effective as regular birth control.

   • Facts: They can delay ovulation or prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.

It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best birth control method for one's individual needs.