How Well Does Birth Control Work?
Take a look at the table below to see how each preventative measure provides effective birth control.
| Most Effective | Sterilization Implants IUD | 99% Effective |
| Shot Pill Ring Patch | 92-97% Effective depending on the method | |
| Diaphragm Condoms (Internal / External) Sponge Cervical Cap | 78-82% Effective depending on the method | |
| Least Effective | Spermicide Fertility Awareness Withdrawl | 71-76% Effective depending on the method |
How to Get Birth Control
Once you decide which option might work best for you, here are some resources.
Condoms, spermicide, the sponge and emergency contraception:
Purchase over-the-counter at the Student Health and Counseling Services (SHCS) pharmacy or a local drugstore.
Other forms of contraception
Make an appointment to obtain a prescription by:
- Going through your Health-e-Messaging portal
- Calling the SHCS appointment desk at 530–752–2349
- Calling your insurance plan to find an in-network medical provider*
- Calling a local community health center
* Affordable Care Act ACA-compliant plans must cover all FDA-approved birth control methods with no out-of-pocket expense.
Sterilization
An effective birth control method, sterilization is a medical procedure that closes or blocks the fallopian tubes or the vas deferens.
Learn more about Sterilization
Implant
One of the most effective birth control methods, an implant is a thin, soft capsule inserted under the skin of the arm by a healthcare provider.
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
A small, flexible T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. Hormonal and non-hormonal options available. One of the most effective birth control methods.
Shot
Hormones administered by an injection.
Oral Contraceptives ("The Pill")
Hormonal pills that are taken daily with one week of hormone-free pills.
Learn more about Oral Contraceptives
Ring
A soft, flexible, circular shaped plastic ring that contains hormones and is inserted into the vagina by the user for three weeks followed by a ring-free week.
Patch
A small, square adhesive that is applied to the skin and releases hormones via the skin.
Diaphragm
A thin domed silicone device that is used with spermicide and is inserted into the vagina prior to intercourse and does not affect hormones.
Internal Condom or External Condom
A latex or latex-alternative sheath that is rolled down over the penis (external condom) or inserted into the vagina (internal condom) that also protect against STIs.
Sponge
A soft foam sponge, containing spermicide that is inserted into the vagina prior to intercourse.
Cerivcal Cap
A small, dome-shaped, silicone device that is used with spermicide and is inserted into the vagina prior to intercourse and does not affect hormones.
Learn more about Cervical Caps
Spermicide
Gels, foams and creams that impair sperm.
Fertility Awareness
Methods to track the ovulation cycle and including abstaining from sex on fertile days.
Learn more about Fertility Awareness
Withdrawal
The penis is removed from the vagina before ejaculation occurs.