Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Prescription Birth Control Options

Throughout your life, you may find that your birth control needs may change. You may eventually decide on a method that requires a prescription or a procedure from your physician or clinician. These are called prescriptive methods.

The diaphragm (shallow latex cup) or cervical cap (thimble-shaped latex cup) need to be fitted by a clinician. Spermicides need to be used along with these methods.

"The Pill" is a combination of hormones taken daily to prevent ovulation or the release of an egg. Oral contraceptives are a very effective method that also help the woman to have regular menstrual cycles (periods).

Depo Provera is a hormone injection given every 12 weeks to prevent the release of an egg. This method can be used by some women who cannot take the pill.

Nuva Ring is a flexible ring containing hormones that is put in the vagina.  The ring stays in place for 3 weeks and is then removed for one week.  At the end of that week a new ring is put in place.  The ring slowly releases hormones. 

Implanon has one small capsule placed under the skin of the upper arm by a clinician. The capsule releases small amounts of hormone that prevent ovulation. Although the Implanon capsule protects against pregnancy for 3 years, it may be removed at any time. Both the insertion and removal must be done by a clinician or physician.

The IUD is a small plastic device placed in the uterus (womb) that contains either copper or hormones. Depending on the device, removal and reinsertion will be required any time after the first to the tenth year.

Sterilization is a surgical procedure to keep the sperm from joining the egg. This procedure can be done on either men or women and must be considered permanent.