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Your guide to birth control

Using birth control gives you control over your health in many ways, including preventing pregnancy, and helping you have lighter periods, fewer cramps, and less acne. Plus, certain methods can help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs/STDs). And most Kaiser Permanente members can get certain types of birth control methods at low or no cost.

Birth control options

There are lots of birth control methods available. Which one you use depends on your personal preferences, medical history, and lifestyle. Will you remember to take a daily pill? Are you comfortable with hormones? Do you want something you don’t have to worry about for a few years? No matter your needs, there’s a birth control method for you.

  

  

Emergency contraception

Sometimes you need a birth control backup plan. Emergency contraception can be used within 5 days after unprotected sex, but it’s best to use it as soon as possible. Some are available without a prescription at drugstores and pharmacies — including Kaiser Permanente.
 

For teens

It’s your body and it’s up to you to take care of your sexual health. Get up to speed on birth control, how to get it (with your parent or on your own), and your right to confidential appointments. Plus, educate yourself on sexually transmitted infections (STIs/STDs), sex, and more.

Your right to privacy

You can get confidential health care for birth control, STIs/STDs, pregnancy, depression, and other mental health conditions, including drug and alcohol use. That means anything you and your provider talk about will stay between you and your health care team. Your privacy is protected by law. The only time your provider would break confidentiality is if you tell them you’re being abused or if you plan to hurt yourself or someone else — in those situations, they’re required to do so by law. If you have any issues you’d like to keep completely private, call the doctor’s office and ask to set up a confidential appointment.

Schedule a confidential visit


Birth control videos


Birth control myths

  

We're here to help

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Complete an E-visit for birth control

Complete an online consultation and receive medical advice or a treatment plan, including prescriptions if needed.

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Get advice

Call us 24/7 to talk with a licensed care provider about birth control questions or concerns.

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Email questions

Message your provider's office with any birth control questions or concerns.

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Make an appointment

Come in and talk with a provider about low- or no-cost birth control.

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