UCM SHS offers a full range of reversible contraception options.
Having a hard time deciding on which birth control option to choose?
Click here for a table summarizing all methods. Or, check out Bedsider.com for a side-by-side comparison of your top choices.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception (aka “Plan B” or “the morning after pill”) is contraception which is taken after an episode of unprotected intercourse. Emergency contraception can be either an oral medication, or a non-hormonal IUD. UCM SHS carries levonorgestrel emergency contraception to be dispensed on-site to students in need. Advanced prescriptions for emergency contraceptive pills are also available from SHS medical providers.
Click here for more information on emergency contraception options.
Combined Hormonal Contraceptives
The birth control pill, patch, and vaginal ring are all known as “combined hormonal contraceptives” because they contain two different types of hormones: estradiol (an estrogen), and a progestin. Together these two hormones help to provide a regular menstrual period while also preventing pregnancy. The pill, patch, and ring require a little more effort on the part of the user since they will need to be taken either daily, weekly, or monthly, respectively. Some people prefer this as they have more personal control over whether and when to be on birth control. Combined hormonal contraceptives may not be a good choice if you have certain health conditions or use tobacco products.
More information on contraceptive pills can be found through the links below:
Progestin-Only Pill
The progestin-only pill (aka “mini pill”) is a type of hormonal birth control pill which contains only the progestin hormone and no estrogen. This pill is an option for those who desire a contraceptive pill but have medical or personal reasons why they cannot use the combined hormonal pill. The progestin-only pill is slightly less effective than the combined hormonal pill and requires even more careful adherence to dosing schedules in order to be effective. For this reason, progestin-only pill is usually not recommended unless there is an indication.
Click here for more information about the progestin-only pill.
Depo Injection
Depo-provera (depo-medroxyprogesterone, aka “the shot”) is a progestin-only hormonal method which is administered by intramuscular injection every 12-15 weeks. Many people like the shot because they do not have to remember to take a medication on their own. A common side effect of the shot is that the menstrual period will stop partially or completely for most people within 3-6 months.
Click here for more information about the depo shot.
Contraceptive Implant
The contraceptive implant (Nexplanon) is a “long-acting reversible contraception” or “LARC” which contains a progestin hormone. It is placed by a trained medical professional just under the skin on the upper arm. The implant is approved to prevent pregnancy for 3 years, however research supports that it may be used up to 5 years with no decrease in efficacy. The implant is one of the safest and most effective birth control methods available.
Click here for more information on the contraceptive implant.
Intrauterine Contraception (IUC)
Intrauterine contraception (aka “intrauterine devices” or “IUDs”) are considered “long-acting reversible contraception” or “LARCs.” They are small, T-shaped devices which are placed into the uterus by a trained medical professional. IUCs last between 3-12 years, depending on which device you choose. IUCs are highly effective and are an excellent option for individuals looking for long-term contraception with either no hormones or very low level hormone. IUCs are generally excellent choices for people who cannot tolerate hormones for one reason or another. UCM SHS currently offers three different IUC options: Paragard (non-hormonal), Kyleena (hormonal), and Mirena (hormonal).
Click here for more information on the non-hormonal IUC.
Click here for more information on hormonal IUCs.
