Birth Control
There are many types of birth control, and choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to figure it out alone—SHOP is here to help you explore your options and find what works best for your body, goals, and lifestyle.
Already know what you need?
Request birth control through the Student Health Center’s secure online system. It’s fast, confidential, and convenient.
Birth Control Patrol
Birth Control Patrol (BCP) is a peer-led program that can help you:
- Learn about different birth control methods
- Understand how to make informed choices
- Navigate appointments, prescriptions, and insurance
Our trained Slug Love peer educators are here to support you–with real info and zero judgment.
Want to talk through your options? Fill out our appointment request form to meet with a Birth Cantrol Patrol peer educator—available in person or on Zoom.
If you have a health concern, please call the free nurse advice line 24/7 at (831) 459-2591 or CAPS at (831) 459-2628.
Understanding birth control effectiveness
Choosing a birth control method is a personal decision—and understanding how well each option works can help you find the method that’s right for you. Here’s a breakdown of common options, grouped by how effective they are at preventing pregnancy in typical use.
Note: Content adapted from Bedsider, a trusted, student-friendly resource that breaks down all the available birth control options in one place.
Really, really effective (fewer than 1 in 100 get pregnant each year)
These methods are the most effective and don’t require daily or frequent action after being placed:
- Implant – lasts up to 5 years
- Hormonal IUD – lasts up to 8 years
- Copper IUD – lasts up to 12 years
- Sterilization – permanent
Really effective (6–9 in 100 get pregnant each year, depending on method)
These methods work well when used consistently and correctly:
- Pill – take every day
- Patch – replace every week
- Vaginal Ring – insert monthly
- Shot – get every 3 months
Pretty effective (12–24 in 100 get pregnant each year)
These methods require use every time you have sex and are more prone to human error:
- Pulling Out
- Fertility Awareness (tracking fertile days)
- Internal Condom
- External Condom
Note: Internal and external condoms also offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
No method (more than 85 in 100 get pregnant each year)
Without any form of birth control, the majority of people will become pregnant within one year of regular sexual activity.
Choosing the right birth control for you
Not all birth control works the same for everyone—and that’s okay! To find the method that best fits your life, think about:
- How often you’re sexually active
- Whether you want a long-term or short-term option
- Your ability or interest in remembering to use a method regularly
- Whether STI protection is a factor
Need help sorting through the options? Use Bedsider’s comparison tool to explore methods side-by-side—comparing effectiveness, side effects, convenience, and more.
You can also talk with a healthcare provider or reproductive health counselor. They can walk you through your options and help you make a decision that’s right for you.