Contraception
Birth control methods are not one-size-fits-all. A method that’s perfect for one woman may not be right for another. Picking a birth control method that fits your life is the key. You may prefer to use a hormonal contraceptive, a barrier method, or a combination of the two! Only you can decide what is best for you. But sometimes figuring out which method to use can be a bit overwhelming. Our staff is here to help you with that process.
Hormonal Contraception
The Pill
The birth control pill is safe and effective for preventing unintended pregnancy. However, birth control pills, like all hormonal methods of contraception, do not protect you from HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). For more information on the birth control pill, click here.
The Patch
The birth control patch (Ortho Evra) is an adhesive patch that contains both Estrogen and Progesterone. One patch is applied on the body and it stays on for one week. For more information on the patch, click here.
The Ring
The Vaginal Ring (Nuva Ring) is a vaginal contraceptive ring. One ring is placed in the vagina and remains in place for three weeks. At the end of the third week, the ring is removed and thrown away. For more information on the ring, click here.
Barrier Methods of Contraception
Condoms
Latex condoms and spermicide are very effective against sexually transmitted infection transmission during vaginal or anal intercourse. It is strongly recommend that condoms always be used with additional lubricant (even if your condom is prelubricated with a spermicide), giving about a 99% effectiveness rate against pregnancy, when both are used correctly every time. For more information click here.
Condoms can be obtained for FREE at the University Health Center Health Promotion front desk on the ground floor. For special or bulk pack requests for student groups, please contact Jenna Beckwith at jbeckwith@health.umd.edu or 301-314-8130.
Dental Dams
A dental dam is a small sheet of latex, which acts as a barrier between the vagina or anus and the mouth. Dental dams get their name because they are used during dental surgery such as root canals. Due to the possible infectious secretions from both the vagina and anus, the dental dam is becoming a more popular safer sex tool. For more information click here.
The Diaphragm
The diaphragm is a soft rubber or latex cup which is inserted into the vagina and fits over the cervix. This prescription barrier method of birth control is 82%-94% effectiveness for preventing unintended pregnancy. A diaphragm does not however, protect you from HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
For individuals interested in IUDs, the University Health Center has compiled a list of local referrals. Click here to view the list.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency Contraceptive Pills are birth control pills taken within 72 hours of an episode of unprotected intercourse to reduce the chance of pregnancy. Examples of unprotected intercourse include: no birth control method used, broken condom, other method failure or misuse, or sexual assault.
The emergency contraceptive pill (Plan B) is available on a walk-in basis during all University Health Center hours of operation. Please note that the ECP are most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse.
The decision to use Emergency Contraceptive Pills is a very personal decision. If you have unanswered questions or concerns regarding the use of the ECPs please discuss the matter further with your practitioner. For questions you can call Women’s Health at (301) 314-8190.
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