If not getting pregnant anytime soon is very important to you, you might want to start thinking about the most effective methods available:

IUDs (Intrauterine Device)

• Forgetting to take your pill every day? Want to set it and forget it? Consider an IUD. They work like a charm.
• IUDs are inserted once and can last anywhere between 3 and 12 years, depending on the type. If you want it out for any reason, you can have it removed at any time.
• The IUD is a small t-shaped piece of plastic that gets put in your uterus to prevent sperm from making their way to an egg to cause pregnancy. It is about 99% effective at preventing pregnancy
• Learn more about IUD’s HERE

IMPLANT

• The implant is a tiny rod about the size of a matchstick that is inserted in the inner part of the upper arm for up to 3 years.
• The implant releases hormones into your body that prevent you from getting pregnant
• It is safe, effective and forgettable, you can’t beat that! It is about 99% effective at preventing pregnancy
• Learn more about the implant HERE

These methods are also very effective when used correctly:

The Pill

• “The Pill” is the most common BC method and is highly effective if taken every day.
• It is a hormonal method that works by stopping ovulation (release of an egg), so there is no egg to fertilize and it is 92%-99% effective at preventing pregnancy 
• You can talk with your clinician about which type of BC pills are right for you.
• Learn more about the Pill HERE

The Patch

• You use the patch by putting a new one on once a week.
• It looks like a square band-aid and it slowly gives off hormones that prevent pregnancy. Nice & Easy. It is 92%-99% effective and preventing pregnancy
• Click here to learn more about the patch

The Ring

• Also known as the “NuvaRing,” a small, you insert a small bendable ring into your vagina
• You leave it in place for 3 weeks at a time, then take it out for the 4th week. The ring works by giving off hormones and itis 92%-99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
• Click here to learn about the ring

The Shot

• The shot contains Progestin, which prevents your ovaries from releasing eggs. When there is no egg to fertilize, no risk for pregnancy.
• You get the shot once every 3 months, or 4 times a year and it is 97%-99% effective at preventing pregnancy
• You do need to make sure to have an established medical provider, as the shot has to be given by a Doctor or Nurse.
• Click HERE for more info about the shot

While these methods are safe and effective to prevent pregnancy, they don’t prevent the spread of STDs. For maximum protection, you can use one of the birth control methods above to prevent pregnancy AND a condom to protect yourself against STDs. Condoms are their own can also be used as birth control, but they are not as effective as the methods above.

CONDOMS: Male & Female Condom 

• Condoms come in every shape and size imaginable, take your pick…red, blue, orange, flavored, scented, glow-in-the-dark, ribbed, thin, small, large, there is ONE for EVERYONE. Not only do they prevent pregnancy they lower the risk of STDs. Keep the sperm inside the condom NOT in your partners body!
• The (internal) Female Condom gives you lots of control. Similar to other condoms, you have to use one EVERY time, but instead you wear one on the inside instead of sticking it on a penis.
• If you are interested in having condoms sent to your home, sign up here

You can check out our comprehensive list of birth control methods to learn more.

And remember – in California, teens have the right to access FREE and CONFIDENTIAL services. When you’re ready to make an appointment, Find A Clinic near you.