Birth Control Specialist

What Is the IUD?

The IUD (intrauterine device) is a small device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUD, the copper IUD, and the hormone IUD. Both types of IUD are more than 99 percent effective. An IUD can protect against pregnancy for 5 to 10 years.

What Are Oral Contraceptives?

Birth control pills, also known as oral contraceptives, are taken on a daily basis to prevent pregnancy. While birth control pills can be as much as 99 percent effective with consistent use, few people actually use oral contraceptives perfectly. This can reduce the rate of effectiveness considerably.

What Is the Birth Control Shot?

The birth control shot, Depo-Provera, is a type of injectable birth control. The injection, which contains the progestin hormone, is given at 3-month intervals. If the shot is given at the right intervals, it is 94 percent effective.

What Is the Birth Control Patch?

The birth control patch is an adhesive that is applied to the skin once a week. The small square looks similar to a typical adhesive bandage. With perfect use, the birth control patch can be over 99 percent effective. However, with typical use, the effectiveness drops to approximately 91 percent.

What Is Nexplanon?

Nexplanon is a birth control implant. This implant delivers a steady dose of progestin hormone, etonogestrel, into the body over the course of up to 3 years. The Nexplanon implant is over 99 percent effective.