Birth Control Options
If you’re having sex that could get you or your partner pregnant and you/they do not want to get pregnant, there are a variety of options for you:
Some hormonal birth control options can also help you control your periods and minimize discomfort such as cramping and acne. If you have questions about birth control options, you can use our anonymous text at 519-569-9521.
In the Waterloo Region the SHORE Centre (Sexual Health, Options, Resources, Education Centre formerly known Planned Parenthood) is the all stop shop for birth control needs. Visit their services offered page here: Our Services - SHORE Centre.
What | How | Cost (approximate) | Notes |
Condoms - non-hormonal | Barrier to keep sperm from entering the other person’s body and fertilizing the egg. | Free at ACCKWA, SHORE, and Public Health Available at most health service organizations. For purchase at grocery and pharmacies. | -prevents STI transmission |
Copper IUD (Intra-Uterine Device) - non-hormonal | A small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus. The copper changes the chemistry in the uterus and destroys sperm. | $80 one time cost, effective for 5-10 years | -get a prescription, have it inserted by a healthcare practitioner |
IUS (Intra-Uterine System) Mirena, Jaydess - levonorgestrel | A small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus. The hormone released causes the lining of the uterus to thin (which makes implantation of a fertilized egg difficult) and thickens the cervical mucus (which makes it more difficult for sperm to swim). | $50-$415 often covered by insurance, effective for 3-5 years | -get a prescription, have it inserted by a healthcare practitioner |
The pill - Combined (estrogen and progestin) or Progestin-only | Taking the pill at the same time every day prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs, thickens the cervical mucus to make it more difficult for sperm to swim, and changing the lining of the uterus to make implantation more difficult. | $10-$40 a month Varies by brand. Covered by some insurance plans.
| -you can set an alarm to remind you to take it |
The patch - estrogen and progestin | The hormones secreted mainly stop the ovary from releasing an egg, but also may thicken the cervical mucus and may thin the uterine lining. | $35 a month | Week 1: first patch |
The ring Nuvaring - estrogen and progestin | The hormones secreted mainly stop the ovary from releasing an egg, but also may thicken the cervical mucus and may thin the uterine lining. | $10-$30 a month | The ring is worn for 3 weeks, then removed for 1 week (period time!) The cycle then begins again with a new ring for 3 weeks in, 1 week out. |
The injection Depo-Provera - progestin only | Stops the ovary from releasing an egg, and thins the lining of the uterus. | Each shot costs about $20-$45 | -you get a prescription |
Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP) plan B or Contingency One * not actually “birth control” | If taken within 5 days of condom-less vaginal/fronthole sex, it can stop the release of an egg or stop implantation of a fertilized egg | $25-$50 at pharmacies Contingency One available $10-$20 at Walmart | -the sooner you take it, the more effective it will be |