IUD (Paragard and Liletta)
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, flexible, t-shaped device that is implanted in the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
Effectiveness: More than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Advantages
Nothing to put in place before sex or take daily
Long lasting - lasts 5-10 years
Hormonal IUDs may reduce period cramps and make your period lighter
Can be used while breastfeeding
The ability to get pregnant returns quickly once the device is removed
Possible Problems
Mild to moderate pain when the IUD is inserted
Cramping or backache for a few days
Spotting between periods in the first 3-6 months. Paragard may cause heavier periods and worse menstrual cramps
Implant (Nexplanon)
The birth control implant is a flexible match-sized rod that is implanted in the upper arm, under the skin.
Effectiveness: More than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Advantages
Nothing to put in place before sex or take daily
Women who can't take the pill may be able to use Nexplanon
Can be use while breastfeeding
The ability to get pregnant returns quickly once removed
Possible Problems
Irregular periods, or no periods, possible
Infection or bleeding at the insertion site
Weight gain
Headache
Shot (Depo Provera)
A hormone injection that is given once every three months.
Effectiveness: Up to 99.7% effective at preventing pregnancy is used properly. The shot is about 94% effective with typical use.
Advantages
Nothing to put in place before sex or take daily
Can be used while breastfeeding
Shorter and lighter periods possible
Can be used by women who can't take estrogen
Possible Problems
Irregular periods, or no periods, possible
There may be a temporary delay in the ability to get pregnant after stopping the shot
Side effects can continue until the shot wears off (12 weeks or more)
Weight gain
Headache
Ring (NuvaRing)
The birth control ring is a hormonal birth control method that is replaced once per month.
Effectiveness: Up to 99.7% effective at preventing pregnancy if used properly. The ring is about 92% effective with typical use.
Advantages
Northing to put in place before sex or take daily
Does not require "fitting" by a clinician
Ability to become pregnancy returns quickly after use is stopped
Can clear up acne, reduce cramps and reduce symptoms of PMS
Possible Problems
Irregular periods, or no periods, possible
Increased vaginal discharge
Vaginal irritation or infection
Cannot use oil-based medicines to treat vaginal infections while the ring is in place
Patch (Ortho Evra)
The birth control patch is a small, adhesive patch worn on the skin.
Effectiveness: Up to 99.7% effective at preventing pregnancy if used properly. The patch is about 92% effective with typical use.
Advantages
Nothing to put in place before sex or take daily
Ability to become pregnant returns quickly when use is stopped
Can clear up acne, reduce cramps and reduce symptoms of PMS
Possible Problems
Irregular periods, or no periods, possible
Skin irritation
May not be as effective for women who weigh more than 198 pounds
Pills
Birth control pills are an oral contraceptive that is taken everyday.
Effectiveness: Up to 99.7% effective at preventing pregnancy is used properly. Pills are about 92% effective with typical use.
Advantages
Nothing to put in place before sex
Regular period with fewer cramps
Can clear up acne, reduce cramps and reduce symptoms of PMS
Possible Problems
Irregular periods, or no periods, possible
Pills must be taken daily - missing pills increases risk of pregnancy
Side effects include irregular spotting, nausea and other minor discomforts
Links
Choose a location
Mt. Auburn Health Center (Cincinnati, OH)
Dayton Health Center (Dayton, Ohio)
Hamilton Health Center (Hamilton, OH)
Springdale Health Center (Cincinnati, OH)
Springfield Health Center (Springfield, OH)
Western Hills Health Center (Cincinnati, OH)
Cincinnati Surgical Center (Cincinnati, OH)