Birth Control

Choosing a Birth Control Method

With so many options to choose from, selecting a birth control method can be an overwhelming task, Student Health providers are here to assist you. Consider the following questions as you decide on the method that is the best for you. 

You can make an appointment with a medical provider at Student Health Services to review your health status and discuss the birth control options that are right for you.

• Does the method you choose have enough sexually transmitted infection (STI) and pregnancy protection for you?
• Will this method fit your lifestyle and budget?
• Are you comfortable with touching your genitals?
• What level of involvement does your partner(s) have when making birth control decisions?

Birth Control Method Fact Sheets

The following birth control method fact sheets are provided by the Reproductive Health Access Project.

• Intrauterine Device (IUD): English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Birth Control Implant: English (PDF) |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Birth Control Shot: English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Birth Control Pill: English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Birth Control Mini Pill (Progestin-Only Pill): English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Birth Control Patch: English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish  
• Birth Control Vaginal Ring: English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Diaphragm: English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• External (Male) Condom: English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Internal (Female) Condom: English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Fertility Awareness Methods, including Abstinence: English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Withdrawal: This method involves pulling the penis out of the vagina before ejaculation. Withdrawal is approximately 76% effective in preventing pregnancy.
• Birth Control Choices Chart: English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Birth Control for Men Chart: English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Non-Prescription Birth Control Methods Chart: English (PDF)  |  Chinese  |  Spanish
• Birth Control Across the Gender Spectrum English (PDF)  |  Spanish

UC San Diego Resources

• Bedsider Birth Control Support Network
• Condom Concierge
• Live Well Be Well Podcast on STIs
• Sexual Health Education (ucsd.edu)
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)