There are numerous types of birth control available through the Student Health Service. Some are available by a prescription
obtained from your health care provider. Others are easily obtained without a prescription. Choosing a contraceptive method
is an important decision. When researching your contraceptive options keep in mind your wishes, fears, preferences, and those
of your partner. You are also going to want to weigh the potential risks and side effects of a method with its contraceptive
and non-contraceptive benefits. No one birth control method is perfect for all.
The Pill/Oral Contraceptives
Available by prescription only, "the pill" is the most commonly used contraceptive method. Oral contraceptives prevent the
ovaries from releasing an egg. The pill also thickens your cervical mucous and changes the lining of your uterus.
The Shot/Depo-Provera
Available by prescription only, this hormone-containing injection prevents the release of eggs from your ovaries and thickens
your cervical mucous. For greater information on Depo-Provera, click on www.aafp.org/healthinfo.
The Ring/NuvaRing
Available by prescription, this small synthetic ring is inserted into the vagina and remains in place for three weeks followed
by a week without the ring. The "ring" works to prevent pregnancy as does "the pill" and "the patch."
The Patch/Ortho Evra
Available by prescription, "the patch" works to prevent pregnancy the same way as "the pill." You apply a bandaid-sized patch
weekly to a designated area of your skin once a week for three weeks. This is followed by a patch-free week, and then the
process begins again.
Diaphragm
Available by prescription, this small rubber cap holds spermicidal jelly or cream against your cervix. The diaphragm acts
as a barrier to keep sperm out of your reproductive tract and the jelly or cream acts as a backup method to kill any sperm
that may have gotten around the rim of the diaphragm
Male Condoms
No prescription is needed for this contraceptive which also serves to protect against sexually transmitted infections. Condoms
act as a barrier to keep sperm from reaching your reproductive organs. They work best when accompanied by a spermicide.
Female Condoms
Available without a prescription, female condoms act as a barrier method (like male condoms) to prevent sperm from coming
into contact with your reproductive system. The female condom covers the inside of your vagina.
Spermicides
Available without a prescription, spermicides are chemicals that kill sperm. They come in a variety of forms including foams,
jellies, creams, suppositories, and films.
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