Types of Birth Control

When choosing a type of birth control, you should know your options. Most women use methods that contain hormones, like the pill, the patch, the vaginal ring, the birth control shot, or the implant. Others use barrier methods, like condoms.

Things to think about before choosing a method:

• How easy is it to use?
• How easy is it to get?
• Does it protect against STDs?
• Do you have any health concerns?
• How well does it prevent pregnancy?

Some types of birth control require a prescription. This means that you have to visit a family planning center or other healthcare provider to get them. You may need an exam at the first visit, but many times you will not. It can depend on what type of birth control you are getting and whether you have had sex in the past.

Information Basics on Birth Control Methods (pdf)