Birth control pills are one of the most popular contraception methods, but they aren't a perfect fit for all women. According to Planned Parenthood Federation of America, birth control pills can cause side effects, such as nausea and vaginal bleeding between periods. Oral contraception also must be taken at the same time each day to be effective. Women who experience side effects or cannot follow its strict regimen have plenty of other birth control options.
Patch
The birth control patch, also known as Ortho Evra, is an adhesive plastic patch that is placed onto the skin. It releases estrogen and progestin, hormones that prevent ovulation (egg production). The patch is kept on the skin for three weeks, then removed for a week so a woman can have a menstrual period. A new patch is then applied. If used correctly, it is more than 99 percent effective.
Implant
The birth control implant, also known as Implanon, is a thin rod that is placed inside the upper arm by a health care professional. It prevents pregnancy by releasing progestin only, and can be used for women who experience side effects from estrogen. Implanon is kept inserted for three years and is more than 99 percent effective.
Vaginal Ring
The birth control ring, also known as NuvaRing, is a pliable ring inserted into the vagina. It prevents pregnancy by releasing both estrogen and progestin hormones. NuvaRing is kept inserted in the vagina for three weeks, then removed for one week before being replaced with a new ring. It is over 99 percent effective with proper use.
Injection
Depo-Provera (the birth control shot) is an injection of estrogen and progestin hormones. The shot is administered in the upper arm and prevents pregnancy for approximately three months. It can be used by women who have difficulty taking daily birth control pills. Depo-Provera is over 99 percent effective if the shot is administered every three months with no lapses.
Intrauterine Device
A intrauterine device (IUD) is a small T-shaped plastic appliance that is inserted into the uterus by a health care professional. An IUD is a long-term birth control method that works by releasing hormones to prevent ovulation, as well as immobilizing sperm. The device comes in two brands: ParaGard (effective for up to 12 years) and Mirena (effective for up to five years). An IUD has more than a 99 percent rate of effectiveness at preventing pregnancy.
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a latex cup that is filled with spermicide before being placed inside the vagina prior to intercourse. The diaphragm covers the cervix (the opening of the uterus), to prevent sperm from reaching an egg to fertilize, while the spermicide reduces sperm movement. The device is removed six hours after intercourse. The diaphragm has a lower rate of effectiveness (approximately 94 percent) even when used perfectly, but may be preferred by women who dislike hormonal birth control methods.
