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Home > Drugs > Treatments > Birth Control

Medications for Birth Control

Contraception is the deliberate use of a medicine, device, or a technique to prevent pregnancy that has the potential to happen during sexual intercourse. Contraception may also be called birth control. A contraceptive is the name given to any medicine or device used for contraception.

What are Contraceptives Used For?

Contraceptives are mostly used for contraception (to help prevent women from becoming pregnant). However, sometimes hormonal contraceptives may also be prescribed to:

  • Help with acne control
  • Help regulate periods
  • Prevent ovulation and pregnancy in women with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI)
  • Reduce pain and cramping during menstruation
  • Reduce the symptoms of endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premenstrual syndrome or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Emergency contraceptives are contraceptives that are taken (or inserted if an IUD) within a few days after unprotected sex to help prevent implantation of a fertilized egg and possible resulting pregnancy.

Condoms are contraceptives that may be used to reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted infections, although protection is not 100%.

What are the Differences Between Contraceptives?

There are several differences between contraceptives. The main difference is that some contain hormones whereas others do not. Hormone-containing contraceptives have more side effects than nonhormonal contraceptives. Some combined hormonal contraceptives also contain supplements such as iron or folic acid.

The following are different types of contraceptives:

  • Combined oral contraceptives (COCs): These contain an estrogen and a progestin to prevent ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary), thin the uterine lining, and thicken cervical mucus making it impenetrable to sperm
  • Progestin-only contraceptives (POPs): These contain just one hormone, progestin. Most work by thickening cervical mucus, preventing sperm from entering the uterus. POPs must be taken within the same three hours every day
  • Hormonal contraceptive patch:One patch is applied each week for every three weeks, then usually followed by a patch-free week
  • Hormonal contraceptive rings: One ring is inserted into the vagina and remains in place continuously for three weeks, then removed for a one week break before a new ring is inserted
  • Hormonal shot/injection: An injection is administered under the skin once every 3 months (12 to 14 weeks)
  • Intrauterine devices (IUD): Small, T-shaped device that is inserted through the vagina into the uterus to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg. Lasts 3 to 10 years depending on the type
  • Implantable rods: Small rod the size of a matchstick that is implanted under the skin of the upper arm. Lasts up to 3 years
  • Female condom: Must be used every time that sex occurs. Provides some protection against STIs
  • Male condom: Contain either latex, polyurethane, or polyisoprene. Must be used every time that sex occurs. Provide some protection against STIs
  • Cervical cap/diaphragm with spermicide: A soft silicone cup that covers the cervix and is inserted before sex. May irritate, cause allergic reactions, and increase the risk of an abnormal Pap test
  • Sponge with spermicide: Soft polyurethane sponge that is inserted before sex and kept in place for six hours after sex
  • Spermicide alone: Must be used every time that sex occurs. Not very reliable. May irritate, cause allergic reactions, and increase the risk of STIs and UTIs.

Emergency hormonal contraception

The emergency contraceptive pill (ECP), sometimes called the ‘morning-after pill’ may be taken to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, contraceptive failure, or after a sexual assault. Levonorgestrel ECPs work best if taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex; however, they are still moderately effective if used within five days of unprotected sex. The ulipristal ECP can be used within five days of unprotected sex.

Is Contraception Safe?

Some types of contraception may not be suitable for some people.

Hormonal contraceptives are not recommended in women with certain types of cancer, at higher risk of clotting or strokes, liver disease, severe headaches, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, uncontrolled high blood pressure or heart disease. Nonhormonal methods of contraception are more suitable for these women. Women who are pregnant who still wish to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections should use barrier methods of contraception (such as condoms).

Serious side effects associated with hormonal contraceptives include:

  • Blurred vision
  • Chest pain and an increased risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke
  • Leg pain or swelling
  • A severe headache
  • Severe stomach pain

Smoking increases the risk of serious heart side effects with COCs (includes the hormonal ring or patch). COCs should NOT be used in women aged over 35 years who smoke because they are at higher risk of serious side effects such as heart attack, blood clots, or stroke.

Certain medications and some supplements can make hormonal contraceptives less effective. Hormonal contraceptives do not offer any protection against STIs such as HIV or hepatitis. Male or female condoms should be used in combination with hormonal contraceptives if protection against STIs is needed.

What are Common Side Effects Associated With Contraception?

Hormonal contraceptives have been associated with several different side effects such as:

  • Acne
  • Appetite changes
  • Breast tenderness, enlargement or discharge
  • Changes to menstrual flow, bleeding or spotting between periods, painful or missed periods
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums)
  • Hair growth in unusual places
  • Mood changes
  • Nausea
  • Skin color changes (brown or black patches)
  • Stomach cramps or bloating
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Vaginal burning, discharge, irritation, itching, redness, or swelling
  • Vomiting.

Nonhormonal contraceptives may be associated with irritation, itching, redness, or discomfort during sex.

Drugs used to treat Birth Control

Name Drug Class Updated
Aubra eq Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Aubra Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Citric acid, lactic acid, and potassium bitartrate Miscellaneous vaginal agents 16-Aug-2023
Enpresse Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel (vaginal ring) Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and ethynodiol diacetate Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin (transdermal) Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel (transdermal) Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone (hrt) Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone (birth control) Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and norgestrel Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol-norethindrone and ferrous fumarate (21/7) (birth control) Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol and segesterone (vaginal ring) Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Ethinyl estradiol-norethindrone and ferrous fumarate (24/4) (birth control) Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Etonogestrel (implant) Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Levonest-28 Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Levonorgestrel intrauterine system Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Levonorgestrel emergency contraceptive Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Levora Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Tri-estarylla Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Tri femynor Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Tri-lo-sprintec Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Tri-lo-mili Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Tri-nymyo Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Tri-mili Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Tri-vylibra Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Tri-sprintec Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Altavera Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Trivora-28 Contraceptives 17-Aug-2023
Tyblume Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Tri-lo-estarylla Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Tri-linyah Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Mili Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Marlissa Contraceptives 16-Aug-2023
Jolivette Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Elinest Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Drospirenone, ethinyl estradiol, and levomefolate Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Drospirenone and estetrol Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Drospirenone Progestins 15-Aug-2023
Delyla Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Deblitane Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Chateal eq Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Chateal Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Afirmelle Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Vylibra Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Portia Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Nymyo Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Norlyroc Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Norlyda Contraceptives 15-Aug-2023
Lyza Contraceptives 14-Aug-2023
Lyleq Contraceptives 14-Aug-2023
Lutera Contraceptives 14-Aug-2023
Lessina Contraceptives 14-Aug-2023
Larissia Contraceptives 14-Aug-2023
Kelnor 1/50 Contraceptives 14-Aug-2023
Kurvelo Contraceptives 14-Aug-2023
Jencycla Contraceptives 14-Aug-2023
Incassia Contraceptives 14-Aug-2023
Heather Contraceptives 14-Aug-2023
Medroxyprogesterone (injection) Contraceptives 13-Aug-2023
Medroxyprogesterone Contraceptives 13-Aug-2023
Hailey (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Aug-2023
Dienogest and estradiol Contraceptives 13-Aug-2023
Ulipristal Progesterone receptor modulators 12-Aug-2023
Tarina fe 1/20 eq (birth control) Contraceptives 12-Aug-2023
Norethindrone Contraceptives 11-Aug-2023
Alyacen 7/7/7 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Alyacen 1/35 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Layolis fe (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Aurovela fe 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Simpesse (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Microgestin fe 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Larin fe 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Larin fe 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Hailey fe 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Depo-subq provera (injection) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Aurovela 24 fe (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Aurovela 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Taysofy (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Tarina 24 fe (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Setlakin (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Necon 0.5/35 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Microgestin fe 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Microgestin 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Merzee (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Larin 24 fe (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Larin 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Junel fe 24 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Junel fe 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Hailey fe 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Hailey 24 fe (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Gemmily (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Finzala (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Charlotte 24 fe (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Blisovi fe 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Blisovi fe 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Aurovela fe 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Aurovela 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Ashlyna (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Vyfemla (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Tarina fe 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Rivelsa (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Nylia 7/7/7 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Nylia 1/35 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Nortrel 7/7/7 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Nortrel 1/35 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Microgestin 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Mibelas 24 fe (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Lojaimiess (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Junel fe 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Junel 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Jaimiess (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Iclevia (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Fayosim (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Balziva (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Wera (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Tilia fe (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Pirmella 7/7/7 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Pirmella 1/35 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Philith (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Nortrel 0.5/35 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Minastrin 24 fe (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Leena (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Generess fe (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Dasetta 7/7/7 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Dasetta 1/35 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Briellyn (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Larin 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Junel 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Aranelle (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Tri-legest fe (birth control) Contraceptives 07-Aug-2023
Provera Contraceptives 06-Aug-2023
Ortho-novum 7/7/7 Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Ortho-cyclen Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Ortho micronor Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Ortho evra Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Vestura Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Orsythia Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Alesse Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Simliya Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Lillow Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Levlen Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Apri Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Velivet Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Amethyst Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Amethia lo (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Caziant Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Amethia (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Skyla Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Kelnor Contraceptives 05-Aug-2023
Liletta Contraceptives 04-Aug-2023
Zovia 1/50 Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Zovia 1/35 Drugs 14-Jul-2023
Zenchent (birth control) Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Zarah Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Volnea Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Viorele Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Vienva Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Triphasil Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Trinessa Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Tri-norinyl (birth control) Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Tri-lo-marzia Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Taytulla (birth control) Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Syeda Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Sprintec Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Slynd Progestins 14-Jul-2023
Seasonique Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Seasonale Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Safyral Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Reclipsen Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Quasense (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Quartette (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Previfem Contraceptives 14-Jul-2023
Pimtrea Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Opill Progestins 13-Jul-2023
Ogestrel-28 Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Ocella Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Norinyl 1+35 (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Nora-be Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Nikki Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Nextstellis Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Natazia Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Mononessa Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Mono-linyah Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Mirena Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Mircette Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Microgestin 24 fe (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Lybrel Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Low-ogestrel Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Loseasonique Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Loryna Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Loestrin fe 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Loestrin fe 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Loestrin 24 fe Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Loestrin 21 1/20 (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Loestrin 21 1.5/30 (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Lo/ovral-28 Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Lo loestrin fe (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Kalliga Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Kaitlib fe (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Juleber Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Isibloom Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Introvale (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Implanon Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Gianvi Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Femynor Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Femcon fe (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Falmina Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Estrostep fe (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Estarylla Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Errin Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Enskyce Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Emoquette Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Desogen Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Depo-subq provera 104 Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Depo-provera contraceptive (injection) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Daysee (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Cyred eq Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Cyred Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Cryselle 28 Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Camrese (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Camrese lo (extended-cycle) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Camila Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Blisovi 24 fe (birth control) Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Beyaz Contraceptives 13-Jul-2023
Balcoltra Contraceptives 12-Jul-2023
Azurette Contraceptives 12-Jul-2023
Aviane Contraceptives 12-Jul-2023
Yaz Contraceptives 12-Jul-2023
Yasmin Contraceptives 12-Jul-2023
Xulane Contraceptives 12-Jul-2023
Twirla patch Contraceptives 12-Jul-2023
Phexxi Miscellaneous vaginal agents 11-Jul-2023
Paragard Miscellaneous vaginal agents 11-Jul-2023
Ortho tri-cyclen Contraceptives 11-Jul-2023
Nuvaring Contraceptives 11-Jul-2023
Nexplanon Contraceptives 11-Jul-2023
Lo loestrin fe Contraceptives 11-Jul-2023
Liletta Contraceptives 11-Jul-2023
Kyleena Contraceptives 11-Jul-2023
Kariva Contraceptives 11-Jul-2023
Jasmiel Contraceptives 11-Jul-2023
Depo-provera Contraceptives 10-Jul-2023
Annovera vaginal ring Contraceptives 10-Jul-2023
Loseasonique Contraceptives 05-Sep-2023
Loestrin 24 fe Contraceptives 05-Sep-2023
Seasonique Contraceptives 29-Sep-2023
Seasonale Contraceptives 29-Sep-2023
Nuvaring Contraceptives 02-Oct-2023
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