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Birth Control Methods

A Multitude of Birth Control Methods

There are so many ways to prevent pregnancy and the spread of sexually transmitted infections! If one doesn't work for you, try another! Every BODY is different and respond differently, especially to the hormonal methods.


VCF® Vaginal Contraceptive Gel (Pre-Filled Applicators)

VCF gel is a hormone-free, over-the-counter birth control option that is used before vaginal sex. Each pre-filled applicator delivers a measured dose of spermicide that creates a chemical barrier to help prevent pregnancy. It’s easy to use, effective when used as directed, and good on demand. 

  • HF: Hormone Free

  • NP: No Prescription

  • EI: Effectively Immediately

  • User Effectiveness Rate: ~79%

  • Does not protect against STIs. Must be used each time before sex. 

  • HSA/FSA Eligible


Tip: You can use VCF gel alongside barrier methods like condoms for extra pregnancy protection, just avoid doubling up on spermicide-based products to prevent irritation.


The Morning After Pill (Levonorgestrel 1.5mg) 

This emergency contraceptive pill is designed to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or when a birth control method was missed, used incorrectly, or failed (like a condom breaking). It contains levonorgestrel, a hormone that works by temporarily delaying ovulation. This method is most effective when taken as soon as possible, within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex. 


Julie® is one brand of levonorgestrel emergency contraception, designed with clear instructions and accessible packaging.

  • NP: No Prescription

  • EI: Effectively Immediately

  • User Effectiveness Rate: ~75-89% (best within 24 hours)

  • HSA/FSA Eligible


Tip: The sooner, the better! This is most effective the earlier it’s taken, ideally within 24 hours. Keep one on hand so you don’t have to rush to the pharmacy if you ever need it.

CycleBeads® – Standard Days Method of Birth ControlCycleBeads are a non-hormonal, fertility awareness tool used to prevent pregnancy by tracking the days in your menstrual cycle when you are most likely to be fertile (~five days before ovulation and the day of ovulation). Each bead represents a day of your cycle, and a movable ring helps track your progress. 

  • HF: Hormone Free

  • NP: No Prescription

  • User Effectiveness Rate: ~79%

  • HSA/FSA Eligible (check your plan for fertility-awareness tools)

You avoid unprotected sex on the fertile days, which are indicated by a specific color on the beads. CycleBeads require consistent daily tracking. They are ideal for those seeking a natural, reusable birth control method with no medical side effects.

Tip: The colored beads make it easy to visualize your cycle! You’re most fertile around the white beads. Using a free CycleBeads app can help you stay on track digitally. This is not effective for irregular cycles. 


Condoms

Condoms are a barrier method of birth control that help prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They work by keeping semen from entering the vagina during sex. 


  • HF: Hormone Free

  • NP: No Prescription

  • PAS: Protects Against STIs (reduces risk but not fully protective for skin-to-skin)

  • EI: Effectively Immediately

  • User Effectiveness Rate: ~87%

  • HSA/FSA Eligible


They are an effective birth control method that also protects against most STIs when used correctly

  • Correct use: Condoms must be put on correctly and used consistently during sexual intercourse

  • Available in latex and non-latex options

    • Latex condoms are generally more effective than polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms

    • Lubricant: Use water-based or silicone-based lubricants instead of oil-based lubricants, which can damage latex condoms. 

Tip: Condoms come in more than one size! Trying different sizes, shapes, and materials (like latex-free or textured) can make them more comfortable and reliable.

Condom STI Prevention: 

  • HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis: ~98% effective when used correctly and consistently.

  • Genital Herpes: Reduces risk of transmission by about 50-70%, but may not be fully effective if there are visible sores or blisters.

  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Reduces risk of transmission by about 50-80%, but may not protect against all types of HPV.

  • Trichomoniasis: ~90% effective.

  • Skin-to-skin contact: Does not fully protect against STIs that spread by skin-to-skin contact, such as genital warts or herpes.


Internal Condoms (Also Known as Female Condoms)

These are a soft pouch inserted into the vagina before sex to block sperm. They can be inserted several hours before sex. 

  • HF: Hormone Free

  • NP: No Prescription

  • PAS: Protects Against STIs (reduces risk but not fully protective for skin-to-skin)

  • EI: Effectively Immediately

  • User Effectiveness Rate: ~79%

  • HSA/FSA Eligible

Tip: Do not use at the same time as external condoms. 


Diaphragms 

A shallow silicone cup placed over the cervix with spermicide to block sperm. This is reusable and prescription fitted. It must be inserted before sex and left in place for at least six hours after. 

  • HF: Hormone Free

  • EI: Effectively Immediately

  • User Effectiveness Rate: ~83%

  • HSA/FSA Eligible


Tip: Internal condoms can be inserted up to 8 hours before sex.


Implant (Nexplanon®)

The implant is a small, flexible rod placed under the skin of the upper arm by a healthcare provider. It steadily releases the hormone progestin to stop ovulation and thicken cervical mucus. It is one of the most effective methods of birth control and lasts up to 3 years.

  • EI: Effectively Immediately* 

  • User Effectiveness Rate: >99%

  • HSA/FSA Eligible

Tip: Once it’s in place, Nexplanon works continuously for up to 3 years and fertility usually returns within a few weeks of removal.


Depo-Provera® Shot

A hormone injection of progestin given every 3 months that prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus.

  • EI: Effectively Immediately*

  • User Effectiveness Rate: ~94%

  • HSA/FSA Eligible

Tip: The shot is private and convenient. One visit every 3 months keeps you protected without daily reminders.


Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing®, Annovera®)

A small, flexible ring inserted into the vagina that releases estrogen and progestin locally. Typically used for 3 weeks and removed for one week to allow for a period. 

Annovera is reusable for up to 1 year.

NuvaRing is replaced monthly. 

  • EI: Effectively Immediately* 

  • User Effectiveness Rate: ~93%

  • HSA/FSA Eligible


*If inserted within five days of starting period


Tip: You’ve got a short grace period (up to 48 hours) to reinsert or replace and use backup protection if needed.


Sterilization (Tubal Ligation or Vasectomy)

Permanent surgical procedures. Tubal ligation blocks or seals the fallopian tubes; vasectomy cuts the vas deferens to block sperm.

  • HF: Hormone Free

  • EI: Effectively Immediately* 

  • User Effectiveness Rate: >99%

  • HSA/FSA Eligible (surgical procedure)

*After recovery

Tip: Permanent doesn’t mean instant! After a vasectomy, it takes about 3 months (or 20 ejaculations) to clear sperm completely, so continue using protection until your provider confirms you’re in the clear.


*Check your HSA/FSA plan or contact your benefits administrator for eligibility and reimbursement rules. 


*User Effectiveness Rate (UER): Typical-use effectiveness accounts for human error and inconsistent use. 



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