For a person with a uterus, there are many methods of birth control to choose from. These types of birth control can be hormonal or non-hormonal. You have options! In this post, I am going to break down the major differences between some of those options.
Short-Acting Contraceptives
Condoms:
Condoms are an easy and accessible non-hormonal method of birth control and STI (sexually transmitted infection) prevention. They don’t require a doctor visit or a prescription. Condoms are up to 98% effective in preventing pregnancy with “perfect use.” With typical use, that number drops to around 85% effectiveness. If you are a student living near or on campus, consider joining the Condom Club to purchase cheaper condoms. If you do not live near campus, the Ohio HIV/STI Hotline might be a great option to turn to; see the Resources section below to learn more!
The Pill:
There are SO many types of birth control pills today. With so many formulations of hormones, you should end up finding what is right for your body after trying a few with a prescription. The pill works by suppressing ovulation and increasing cervical mucus, which both make it harder for you to get pregnant. With typical use (taking a pill each day), birth control is 91% effective. This means that around 9 in 100 people will get pregnant each year on the pill. The pill does not prevent against STIs; it becomes more effective if you combine it with a barrier method of protection (i.e., an external or internal condom, dental dam, finger cot, or latex glove).
The Ring:
The ring is an insertable hormonal contraceptive that requires a prescription. You insert the ring vaginally, almost like a tampon. The ring sits right next to your cervix when worn correctly and needs to be removed every three weeks. The typical use of the ring results in a 91% protection rate from pregnancy. This birth control method does not protect you against STIs (so be sure to use a barrier method with it).
The Patch:
The patch is a hormonal birth control option that attaches to your skin like a band aid. It also requires a prescription. You can place the patch anywhere on your body except for your breasts. It is worn for one week, and then replaced with another patch. The typical use of the contraceptive patch results in around 91% protection from pregnancy and does not protect you from STIs.
The Shot:
The shot is a hormonal birth control method that must be administered by a healthcare provider every three months (or a total of four times each year). It is just like getting the flu shot in your arm. The typical use of the shot results in around 99% protection from pregnancy but does not protect against STIs.
Long- Acting Contraceptives
The IUD:
The IUD, or intrauterine device, has both hormonal and non-hormonal options for protection against pregnancy. These devices can offer protection anywhere from three to 12 years after they are inserted into the uterus by your provider. An IUD is 99% effective against pregnancy. These devices do not offer protection against STIs (so remember to use a barrier method with it if needed).
The Implant:
The implant is a small hormonal plastic bar that is inserted into your upper arm by a provider. This form of birth control offers protection for up to three years. The implant is 99% effective against pregnancy. This device also does not offer protection against STIs.
Remember that birth control doesn’t need to be chaotic. Visit the resources below to learn more about your options and decide on the best method for you!
Resources:
- Planned Parenthood: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control
- Student Life Student Health Services: https://shs.osu.edu/services/gynecologic-services/contraceptives
- Student Life Student Wellness Center: https://swc.osu.edu/services/sexual-health/condom-club/
- Ohio HIV/STI Hotline: http://ohiv.org/positive/free-condoms/
Grace Axelson, Safer Sex Wellness Ambassador