External and internal condoms or diaphragms. These are the only methods that also provide protection against STIs. Highly accessible over-the-counter throughout Winston-Salem.
Intrauterine devices are small 'T' shaped objects placed in the uterus by a clinician. They provide long-acting reversible contraception for 3 to 10 years, depending on the type.
Hormonal methods applied via a weekly skin patch or a monthly vaginal ring. Both release hormones through the body and require a prescription.
Fertility awareness-based methods involve tracking menstrual cycles and physiological signs. These methods require careful training and daily monitoring of fertility windows.
Exploring Your Contraception Options
Understanding the variety of birth control methods available is essential for reproductive autonomy. Whether you're looking for long-term protection or a daily routine, Winston-Salem offers several pathways to care.
Educational Information Only: This section is intended for general knowledge and is not a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.
A daily oral medication that prevents ovulation. Effective when taken consistently at the same time each day. Requires a prescription from a healthcare professional.
A tiny, thin rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm or injection given 4 times per year. Both release hormones to prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years and are highly effective and reversible.
Used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Options include pills available at local pharmacies or certain IUDs. Most effective when used as soon as possible.
Sterilization via vasectomy or tubal ligation. These are permanent surgical procedures intended for those who do not wish to have children in the future. Consult a specialist for options.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods work by physically blocking sperm from reaching the egg. They are used at or before intercourse and must be used correctly every time to be most effective.
Common barrier methods include external (male) condoms, internal (female) condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and spermicides. Condoms are the only contraception method that also help reduce the risk of many sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Understanding Oral Contraception
The oral contraceptive pill is a non-invasive, reversible method of birth control taken daily to prevent pregnancy. By delivering hormones (estrogen, progestin, or both) into the bloodstream, it alters your natural cycle to ensure reliable protection when used correctly.
The Combination Pill
- How it works: Uses progestin and estrogen to stop ovulation and thicken cervical mucus.
- Who it's for: Anyone seeking regular cycles and potential skin benefits.
- Key Difference: Contains two hormones; more flexibility with missed doses (24h window).
Progestin-Only (Mini-Pill)
- How it works: Chiefly thickens mucus to block sperm; may sometimes stop ovulation.
- Who it's for: those sensitive to estrogen.
- Key Difference: Estrogen-free; requires strict 3-hour daily consistency.
The IUD: Long-Term Reliability
What is an IUD?
An Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped contraceptive device that a healthcare provider inserts into your uterus. It is one of the most effective forms of reversible birth control available today. There are two types - hormonal and nonhormonal (copper IUD).
How does it work?
Hormonal IUDs work by changing the way sperm cells move so they can't get to an egg. They also thicken cervical mucus to block sperm and thin the uterine lining.
Nonhormonal or copper IUDs do not use hormones. Instead, they damage sperm and create an immune response in the body that stops the development of healthy eggs.
The Contraceptive Implant and Injection
The birth control implant is a small, rod-like device that a clinician places under the skin of the upper arm. It is more than 99% effective, making it one of the most reliable options.
The birth control injection, also known as Depo Provera, is a shot given every 12-13 weeks (4x per year). Similar to oral contraception, it is important to receive each dose on time to prevent pregnancy.
As of 2026, Depo Provera is under lawsuit for allegedly increasing the risk of developing meningiomas (brain tumors).
How do they work?
Both the implant and the injection release progestin, which prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus. This makes it significantly more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. The implant works continuously for up to 5 years, while the injection works continuously for 12-14 weeks. Both methods can be removed or stopped at any time.
Patches and Vaginal Rings
Patches and vaginal rings are both hormonal methods of birth control. The patch is worn on the skin, while the ring is placed inside the vagina. Both slowly release hormones to help prevent pregnancy when used correctly.
How do they work?
These methods release hormones (usually estrogen and progestin) into the body to stop ovulation, thicken cervical mucus so sperm can’t move easily, and thin the lining of the uterus. The patch is replaced weekly, and the ring is usually worn for three weeks and then removed for one week.
Both of these methods are easy to use and are very effective when used correctly.
They can also help make periods lighter and more regular. However, both can cause adverse side effects, like nausea and spotting.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception is a pill taken as a backup method after unprotected sex or when a regular birth control method fails (for example, when a condom breaks or pills are missed). It helps reduce the chance of pregnancy if taken as soon as possible by preventing or delaying ovulation. Options such as Plan B One-Step are available over the counter, while others, like ella, require a prescription.
The copper IUD can also be used as emergency contraception and can be inserted up to 5 days after intercourse.
Emergency contraception does not cause abortion and cannot affect an existing pregnancy.
Natural Methods
Natural methods of birth control rely on tracking signs of fertility, like cycle days, body temperature, and cervical mucus, and planning sex to avoid the most fertile days. They are hormone‑free but require careful learning and very consistent use. This method includes:
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Calendar (rhythm) method
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Basal body temperature tracking
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Cervical mucus method
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Withdrawal (pull‑out)
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Lactational amenorrhea method (for people who recently gave birth)
These methods do not protect against STIs and usually have higher typical‑use failure rates than other birth control methods.
Permanent Methods (Sterilization)
Sterilization is a permanent form of birth control for people who are sure they do not want a future pregnancy. For women and people with a uterus, this is usually done with a procedure called tubal ligation that blocks or seals the fallopian tubes.
A vasectomy, on the other hand, blocks the tubes that carry sperm. Sterilization is more than 99% effective and works continuously without needing ongoing action. Because it is intended to be permanent, reversal is not guaranteed and can be complex and costly.
Sterilization does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so condoms may still be recommended for STI prevention.