Health Center - Birth Control
For many women, birth control pills are the contraception method of choice. “The pill” has evolved over the years and more options exist than ever before. Unsure which is the right birth control method for you? Not sure what to do if you miss a pill? Find answers to these questions and more here.
Birth Control Pills Guide
Progestin Intrauterine Device (IUD) (Mirena)
Effectiveness: More than 99 percent effective (less than 1 pregnancy per 100 women each year).
What is it? The IUD is a small T-shaped plastic device, about 1 to 1½ inches, with a string attached. A health care provider inserts the device through the cervix into the uterus, and it releases synthetic progestin.
How does it work? The IUD slows or stops movement of the sperm and egg by changing cervical mucus, fallopian tubes and the uterine lining. It also releases synthetic progestin hormone to prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg, similar to other forms of progestin-only birth control. It takes about 7 days for the hormonal IUD to start working, and it remains effective for 5 to 7 years.
STD protection: No; you will still need to use condoms if you are concerned about STDs.
Benefits: It allows women to feel more spontaneous about having sex. You don't have to remember to use daily birth control or to interrupt foreplay to use birth control. It may reduce menstrual cramps and make your periods lighter or make them stop completely. It can be used during breastfeeding. It lasts 5 to 7 years, and removal by your health care provider is quick and easy. You may be able to get pregnant quickly after its removal.
