Birth control
Whether you are deciding which contraceptive to use or merely looking for information, this page will give you a brief overview of the many birth control options offered at Planned Parenthood. For more detailed information about each method, click on the boldfaced heading. Different options have different levels of effectiveness.
Planned Parenthood staff can help you compare methods and decide which one is right for you. To contact your nearest Planned Parenthood health center, call 1-800-230-PLAN.
Condoms / Female Condoms
These thin latex or plastic sheaths form a barrier to keep sperm from joining an egg. |
We Deliver!
Planned Parenthood of Indiana is expanding its former Bill-a-Pill service, and our new We Deliver! program offers more options and convenience. Rather than traveling to the health center or pharmacy each month to pick up your birth control supplies, you can have them delivered to your home. For more information, download the order form (pdf) today.
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Diaphragm
A shallow latex cup that fits securely in the vagina to cover the cervix. Diaphragms must be used with spermicide.
Emergency Contraception
This special dose of hormonal birth control works to prevent pregnancy if taken up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse. Emergency contraception is most effective (up to 89%) within 72 hours of the unprotected sex act. Emergency contraception will have no effect if you are already pregnant; emergency contraception will not cause an abortion.
IUD
A small plastic device placed inside the uterus. It contains copper or hormones to prevent pregnancy.
The Patch
A thin, flexible plastic patch worn continuously on the skin releases hormones that protect against pregnancy. The patch is changed weekly (taking off every 4th week).
The Pill
The Pill is taken daily. There are several different brands of this hormonal method of birth control available. Your health care provider will prescribe the right pill for you.
The Ring
These small, flexible rings are worn deep in the vagina for three weeks (taking off every 4th week). The ring continuously releases a low doseage of hormones to prevent pregnancy.
The Shot
Your clinician can give you a shot of pregnancy-preventing hormone in your arm or buttock every 12 weeks.
Spermicide
Used with condoms, diaphragms, or on its own, spermicide immobilizes sperm to keep them from joining an egg.
Sponge
Made of a soft, disposable foam, the sponge must be moistened with water to activate its spermicide, nonoxynol-9, before insertion into the vagina. It is 90% effective at protecting against pregnancy for the next 24 hours.
It is important to note that of the above methods, only condoms (male or female) protect against sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS. Planned Parenthood staff can also discuss other options with you, including:
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