Cervical caps and diaphragms are soft rubber barriers that are intended to fit securely over the cervix. Used with a spermicidal cream, they prevent the sperm access to the uterus. Both are availble by prescription and are fitted to the individual by the clinician. The diaphragm can be left in place for up to 24 hours, and the cervical cap up to 48 hours.

Condoms are sheaths of thin latex or plastic worn on the penis during intercourse. They are available dry or lubricated. Sometimes they are called rubbers, safes, or jimmies. They reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infection and are also available over-the-counter. When used consisently and correctly, condoms are 97-98% effective in preventing HIV/AIDS and pregnancy. We sell a wide variety of condoms at all our health centers for only $1/dozen -- no appointment needed!

Depo Provera (the shot) is a contraceptive injection containing progestin that is administered by your provider every 12 weeks. The shot prevents the release of the egg, thickens cervical mucus to prevent the sperm from joining with the egg, and prevents fertilized eggs from implanting in the uterus. It is a 99.7% effective method of birth control but NOT effective against sexually transmitted infections.

Emergency Contraception (EC)
is a hormone pill taken within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse to prevent a woman from becoming pregnant. The hormones are the same ones in birth control pills. It is a one time method of birth control and is not meant to be used as an ongoing method.

Essure - permanent contraception for women is a permanent birth control devise that is inserted into the fallopian tubes and is 99.8% effective. Available only at Southeast Portland Health Center.

Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a small device made of plastic that contains copper or a natural hormone. It is inserted into the uterus and may be left in place for 5 to 10 years, depending on the IUD. IUD's work by preventing fertilization of the egg. They are available by prescription, and insertion and removal is done by a clinician.

Oral Contraceptives are monthly series of hormone pills that are taken once a day. The hormones in the pills are similar to the hormones that the body makes to regulate the menstrual cycle. The pills work by preventing ovulation and by thickening the cervical mucus to prevent the sperm from joining the egg. There are many different kinds of pills, and a clinician will help decide which is right for the individual.

Ortho-Evra (the Patch) is a weekly hormonal birth control patch that is worn on the skin to prevent pregnancy. The patch is worn for one week and replaced on the same day of the week for three consecutive weeks, with the fourth week "patch-free."

Over the counter contraceptives include condoms, spermicidal foams and creams, the female condom, and contraceptive films. We also provide counseling on the most effective methods and their use.

Safer sex counseling includes information on the behaviors which involve the least risks for becoming pregnant, contracting or spreading a sexually transmitted infection.

Vasectomy is a permanent surgical method of contraception for men, also known as sterilization. It is the severing of the vas defrens tubes that transport sperm from the testicles into the urethra. Available only at Southeast Portland and Central Oregon (Bend) Health Centers.

Questions? Please access our Online Health Center Ask a Nurse service. To contact the health center nearest you call 1.888.875.7820.