Birth Control Tool
When it comes to birth control, your teen has many choices. Some will be more suited to your teen and their life than others. Understanding what each type is and how they work will help you pass on the relevant knowledge to your child, and help them make their own decision about what will work best for them.
Birth Control Pill
A hormone pill taken every day to prevent pregnancy.
Pregnancy Protection?
91%*
STI Protection?
No
*with typical use
Birth Control Injection
A hormone (progestin) injection given to prevent pregnancy.
Pregnancy Protection?
94%*
STI Protection?
No
*with typical use
External Condom
A thin covering that fits over a hard (erect) penis to prevent pregnancy and STIs.
Pregnancy Protection?
82%*
STI Protection?
Yes
*with typical use
Emergency Contraception
A pill or IUD that is used if a person has had unprotected sex or are not sure if they are protected from pregnancy.
Pregnancy Protection?
IUD: 99%*
Pill: 50% - 90%*
STI Protection?
No
*with typical use
IUD
A small, soft, T-shaped device that is put in the uterus by a health care provider to help prevent pregnancy. Can be copper or hormonal type.
Pregnancy Protection?
99%*
STI Protection?
No
*with typical use
Birth Control Patch
A small sticky patch worn on the skin that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.
Pregnancy Protection?
91%*
STI Protection?
No
*with typical use
Diaphragm
A flexible latex or silicon disc that is put in the vagina and used with a spermicidal gel.
Pregnancy Protection?
84%*
STI Protection?
No
*with typical use
Birth Control Ring
A clear plastic ring that is put in the vagina to prevent pregnancy.
Pregnancy Protection?
91%*
STI Protection?
No
*with typical use