Birth control and family planning

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Barrier methods of birth control - series	Before and after vasectomy	Birth control pill - series	Cervical cap
Hormone-based contraceptives	Intrauterine device	Side sectional view of female reproductive system	The diaphragm
The male condom	Tubal ligation	Tubal ligation - series	Vaginal ring

HORMONE INJECTIONS

• Progestin injections, such as Depo-Provera, are given into the muscles of the upper arm or buttocks. This injection prevents ovulation.
• A single shot works for up to 90 days.
• Less than 1 pregnancy occurs over 1 year in 100 women using this method.

SKIN PATCH

• The skin patch (Ortho Evra) is placed on your shoulder, buttocks, or other convenient location. It continually releases progestin and estrogen. Like other hormone methods, a prescription is required.
• The patch provides weekly protection. A new patch is applied each week for three weeks, followed by one week without a patch.
• About 1 pregnancy occurs over 1 year out of 100 women using this method.
• Risks are similar to combined birth control pills.

VAGINAL RING

• The vaginal ring (NuvaRing) is a flexible ring about 2 inches in diameter that is inserted into the vagina. It releases progestin and estrogen. 
• A prescription is required.
• The woman inserts it herself and it stays in the vagina for 3 weeks. Then, she takes it out for one week.
• About 1 pregnancy occurs over 1 year out of 100 women using this method.
• Risks include vaginal discharge and vaginitis, as well as those similar to the combined birth control pill.

IUD

• The IUD is a small plastic or copper device placed inside the woman's uterus by her health care provider. Some IUDs release small amounts of progestin. IUDs may be left in place for up to ten years, depending on the device used
• The method should not be used by women who have a high risk of getting a pelvic infection.
• Less than 1 out of 100 women per year will get pregnant using an IUD. 
• Women who get pregnant with an IUD in place have a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy.
• Risks include cramps, bleeding (sometimes severe), pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and perforation of uterus.

NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING

• This method involves observing a variety of body changes in the woman (such as cervical mucus changes, basal body temperature changes) and recording them on a calendar to determine when ovulation occurs. The couple abstains from unprotected sex for several days before and after the assumed day ovulation occurs.
• This method requires education and training in recognizing the body's changes as well as a great deal of continuous and committed effort.
• About 15 to 20 pregnancies occur over 1 year out of 100 women using this method (for those who are properly trained).