Birth control that fits your life.
There is no single best birth control, only the one that works best for you. This is a plain-language guide to the seven methods we offer, how each one works and how they compare. Your provider will help you choose.
- Methods we offer Seven options
- How long they last One day to 10 years
- Most effective Implant and IUDs, over 99%
- Hormone-free option Copper T IUD
Seven options, side by side
Start here for the quick view, then read about each method below.
| Method | How you use it | How often | Effectiveness* | Hormones |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-acting methods | ||||
| Birth Control Pills | Swallow a pill | Every day | About 93% | Estrogen + progestin, or progestin only |
| Contraceptive Patch | Wear a patch on your skin | Change weekly | About 93% | Estrogen + progestin |
| NuvaRing | Place a ring in the vagina | Change monthly | About 93% | Estrogen + progestin |
| Depo-Provera Shot | Injection at our office | Every 3 months | About 96% | Progestin only |
| Long-acting methods | ||||
| Nexplanon | Implant placed in the upper arm | Lasts up to 5 years | Over 99% | Progestin only |
| Mirena IUD | Device placed in the uterus | Lasts up to 8 years | Over 99% | Progestin only, low dose |
| Copper T IUD | Device placed in the uterus | Lasts up to 10 years | Over 99% | None |
*With typical use, meaning the way most people actually use each method. All of these methods are reversible.
Methods you use on a schedule
These work well when you keep up with them, and you can stop at any time.
Birth Control Pills
A pill you take once a day. Most contain two hormones, estrogen and progestin. Progestin-only pills are an option if you can’t take estrogen.
- Effectiveness About 93% with typical use
- Hormones Estrogen and progestin, or progestin only
- Good to know Works best taken at the same time every day. Can make periods lighter and more regular
Contraceptive Patch
A small patch worn on your skin that releases hormones. You apply a new patch once a week for three weeks, then go one week without.
- Effectiveness About 93% with typical use
- Hormones Estrogen and progestin
- Good to know Nothing to remember daily. Check that it stays in place
NuvaRing
A small, flexible ring you place in the vagina yourself. It stays in for three weeks, then you remove it for one week.
- Effectiveness About 93% with typical use
- Hormones Estrogen and progestin
- Good to know You insert and remove it at home, once a month
Depo-Provera Shot
An injection of the hormone progestin, given by our team every three months.
- Effectiveness About 96% with typical use
- Hormones Progestin only
- Good to know Periods often get lighter or stop. After stopping, it can take several months for fertility to return
Set it and forget it
Placed by your provider in a short office visit, these last for years and can be removed whenever you choose.
Nexplanon
A thin, flexible rod about the size of a matchstick, placed under the skin of your upper arm.
- Effectiveness More than 99%
- Hormones Progestin only
- Good to know Placed and removed in a short office visit. Changes in your bleeding pattern are common
Mirena IUD
A small, T-shaped device placed in the uterus that releases a low dose of progestin.
- Effectiveness More than 99%
- Hormones Progestin only, low dose
- Good to know Periods usually get lighter and may stop. Also used to treat heavy periods
Copper T IUD
A small, T-shaped device wrapped in copper, placed in the uterus. It contains no hormones.
- Effectiveness More than 99%
- Hormones None
- Good to know Periods can be heavier or crampier, especially in the first few months
Four questions to help you decide
The right method depends on your health, your routine and your plans. Think these over before your visit, and we’ll talk through them together.
Birth control does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Condoms do, and you can use them along with any of these methods.
- How often do you want to think about it? Every day, once a week, once a month, every few months, or not for years.
- Do you want to avoid hormones, or just estrogen? The Copper T IUD is hormone-free. The shot, Nexplanon and Mirena contain no estrogen.
- When might you want to become pregnant? Every method here is reversible. Fertility usually returns quickly, though it can take longer after the shot.
- How would you like your periods to change? Some methods make periods lighter or more regular. The Copper T IUD can make them heavier.
Frequently asked questions
Don’t see your question here? Call us at 770-451-3100 and we’ll be glad to help.
Which birth control method is the most effective?
The implant and the IUDs are more than 99% effective because there is nothing to remember once they are in place. The shot, pill, patch and ring also work well when you use them on schedule.
Does birth control protect against STDs?
No. None of these methods protect against sexually transmitted infections. Condoms do, and you can use them along with any method. We also offer STD testing.
How soon can I get pregnant after I stop?
With most methods, your fertility returns quickly once you stop. After the Depo-Provera shot, it can take several months longer.
Can I switch if I don’t like my method?
Yes. If a method isn’t working for you, tell us. Your provider can help you switch to one that fits better.
Do you accept my insurance?
We accept most health insurance plans in Georgia. Call us at 770-451-3100 and we’ll check your plan before your visit.
How do I get started?
Call us at 770-451-3100 to schedule a visit. Your provider will review your health history with you and help you choose.
Not sure which one is right for you?
That’s what your visit is for. Call us and we’ll help you find your fit. We’re here Monday through Friday, 8am to 4pm.
We accept most health insurance plans in Georgia
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770-451-3343
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Mon – Fri, 8am – 4pmClosed for lunch 12:30 – 1:30