The two types of barrier methods are condoms and diaphragms. However, condoms are the only method of birth control that actually prevent sexually transmitted infections.

A diaphragm is a bendable cup that sits in your cervix. While they don’t prevent STIs like condoms do, they do however, prevent sperm from reaching an egg.

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) is a T-shaped, flexible plastic device that’s placed at the bottom of the uterus. As a long-acting reversible contraception, it’s known for its efficacy and ease of use. It can also be used for emergency contraception if inserted within five days of unprotected sex.

To keep ovaries from releasing an egg, hormonal contraceptives use two hormones; estrogen and progestin. Because the hormones thicken the cervical lining, sperm is blocked from swimming up the cervix. For some women, the estrogen in some hormonal contraceptives can increase the risk of stroke, blood clots, and high blood pressure. And the risk increases when combined with factors like being over age 35 or smoking.

When it comes to the pill, there are a plethora of different options, but they fall into two categories; progestin-only pills, and combination pills. Combination pills which contain both estrogen and progestin, are the most common. But our San Antonio birth control counseling team will help you determine which version is right for you.

Even though the pill can reduce menstrual cramps and regulate your menstrual cycle, it offers no protection for STIs.

The two types of birth control patches approved by the FDA are Twirla and Xulane. And similar to the pill, patches contain hormones that keep you from ovulating. Patches can be worn on the buttocks, arm, or belly, and release hormones into your skin.

Throughout one menstrual cycle, you wear three different patches. This means you swap out the old one for a fresh patch every week, and then have a period during the fourth week.