Sonoma State University

Types of Birth Control Available at the SHC

No prescription required:

  • Condoms (male $1.50 per 10, and female $3 per 3):  more effective at pregnancy prevention when used with spermicide. Help protect against sexually transmitted infections.
  • Spermicides (foam, jelly, film- $10.75/box): prevent sperm from reaching and fertilizing egg. Best used in conjuction with condoms.

Prescription required:

  • Birth Control Pills ($7-10/month):  reversible and generally safe and reliable when used correctly; have non-contraceptive benefits; possible side effects; must be taken at the same time each day. No protection agains STIs.
  • Nuva Ring (vaginal ring, $100/ring without insurance):  similar to combined birth control pills in effectiveness, action, and side effects. Less theoretical chance of nausea and no daily pill taking required. No protection agains STIs.
  • Depo Provera (injection, $50 every 12 weeks):  convenient, 99% effective without the need to remember a daily pill; contains no estrogen so avoids estrogen-related side effects; reduced menses, menstrual cramps, anemia, spotting, irregular menses may occur; possible progestin related side effects may occur (e.g. acne, fluid retention, weight gain, depression).
  • Counseling can be provided on IUDs (Paraguard, Mirena, Skyla, etc) and Nexplanon (arm implant), including guidance on where to go if you would like to start one of these methods.
  • For more information visit https://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/health-conditions-and-diseases/hiv-and-other-stds/choose-the-right-birth-control.

*Prices subject to change, please see SHC Pharmacy for current pricing.