Types of Birth Control Available at the SHC

The SHC Pharmacy charges a nominal fee for contraceptive products and prescriptions. 

No prescription required:

• Condoms (male and female):  more effective at pregnancy prevention when used with spermicide. Help protect against sexually transmitted infections.
• Spermicides (foam, jelly, film): prevent sperm from reaching and fertilizing egg. Best used in conjunction with condoms.

Prescription required:

• Birth Control Pills:  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 against STIs.
• Nuva Ring:  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 against STIs.
• Depo Provera:  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 MyHealthfinder Choose the Right Birth Control