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Birth Control (Contraception)

Birth control (also known as contraception) is a way to prevent pregnancy when you do not want to have a baby. HPSM’s Medi-Cal, CareAdvantage and HealthWorx plans cover all forms of birth control approved by the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at no cost to members.   

Types of birth control

You have many birth control options, such as:

  • Abstinence: Not having sex.
  • Barrier methods: These stop sperm from reaching an egg. They include condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, sponges and spermicidal gel. 
  • IUD (intrauterine device): A small, T-shaped object that a healthcare provider places inside the uterus.
  • Hormonal methods: Most methods work to prevent an egg from being released each month. These include shots, a patch on the skin, a ring placed in the vagina and birth control pills.
  • Fertility awareness-based methods: These are based on not having sex on days that pregnancy is most likely.
  • Emergency contraception: Can prevent pregnancy if taken within five days after having sex. 
  • Permanent birth control (sterilization): There are two types: vasectomy (for men) and tubal ligation (for women). 

Learn more about the types of birth control available.

How to get birth control

You can get some birth control methods by prescription or through a healthcare provider. You can get other birth control methods like condoms and emergency contraception pills at pharmacies and other stores without a prescription. 

Learn more about how to get birth control.

Choosing a birth control method

Each type of birth control method:

  • Is used differently.
  • Has a different success rate (that is, how well it works to prevent pregnancy).
  • Has pros and cons, such as:
  • Being easier for you to get and/or use. 
  • Protection from sexually transmitted infections (STI). 

According to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, answering these questions can help you think about what’s important to you when choosing a birth control method:

  • How often do you have sex?
  • How many sex partners do you have?
  • Will you be able to use it correctly every time?
  • Do you also need protection from HIV and other STI?
  • Do you want to have children someday? How soon?
  • How well does the birth control method work?
  • Do you have any health conditions?
  • Are there any side effects?

Your primary care provider (PCP) or other trusted health care professional, such as your Obstetric (OB) provider, can also answer any questions you have about birth control.

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