When people think about birth control, they most often think about pills and condoms. But there are many more methods available that you should know about. The type that works best for you will depend on your health and circumstances and what you feel comfortable using.
When choosing a method, there are a number of things to consider.
- Do you want a hormonal method, or a non-hormonal one?
- Do you want a method you don’t have to think about every day?
- Do you need to consider any personal health issues?
- Are you over 35?
- Do you smoke?
- What are the risks?
Visit the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada to learn about the methods and determine which might work best for you. You will have an opportunity to discuss your options at your Opal Clinic consult or you can talk to you own doctor.
Non-Hormonal Contraceptives
- Copper IUD can be inserted on the day of your procedure and left in for 5 to 10 years. Cost is $100.
- CAYA Diaphragm is a one-size-fits-most diaphragm to be used in conjunction with special contraceptive gel and can be used for up to 2 years. This product and the gel require a prescription and sometimes the gel can be difficult to obtain. Cost $140.
Hormonal Contraceptives
Below are links to some of the manufacturer’s pages for product and consumer information. For additional information, go to the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARC)
- Mirena/Kyleena IUS can be inserted after your procedure. The Mirena is effective for 8 years and the Kyleena for 5 years. The cost is $520.
- Nexplanon is a small rod implanted in your arm, effective for 3 years. The cost is $440.
Patch/Ring/Pill Options
- EVRA. If you don’t like taking a pill every day, “the patch” is one alternative. It must be changed weekly. The cost is $50/month.
- Nuva Ring is another hormonal contraceptive for those who don’t like taking a pill every day. It is inserted into the vagina and stays in for 3 weeks. It is then taken out for 7 days and a new one is then inserted for another cycle. The cost is $40/month.
- Depo-Provera is an injection that can be given at the time of your procedure. To continue using it, you must return to your doctor for additional shots every 12 weeks. The cost is $60 for 12 weeks.
- Oral Contraceptives. We can provide you with a prescription for any type of birth control pills and will give you a free sample pack to get started on, if available. The cost is $12/month.
- Emergency Contraception Plan B, can be obtained from pharmacies without a doctor’s prescription. Cost is $30.
Natural Methods
- Natural methods. A guide to natural birth control Taking Charge of Your Fertility has more information on how to avoid or achieve pregnancy.
Permanent Methods
- Tubal Ligation and Vasectomy. We can refer you for tubal ligation. Your partner can have a family physician refer him for a vasectomy.