Copper IUD (Paragard)
A long-lasting, hormone-free IUD that provides over 99% effective pregnancy prevention for up to 12 years.
Compare Birth Control Methods
How to use this page
Use the filters to narrow the list. You can turn on one filter at a time. Choose All to see every method again. Methods are grouped by how a breast cancer history affects their use. The green and red notes explain what each group means.
Compare methods
Select the checkbox on up to three methods. You need at least two selected before Compare Methods will open. The comparison shows those methods side by side. Talk with your health care provider about which option is right for you.
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*BC = birth control **STI = sexually transmitted infections
Showing of 19 methods
Select up to 3 methods
Safe to use
This means that your breast cancer history does not limit use of this method. You may have other health conditions that would limit use, so please check with your health care provider.
Avoid; may be considered in special situations
This means that you should generally avoid these methods. After at least 5 years of cancer remission (cancer free), these methods might be used with caution if the expected benefits are greater than risks for you. This decision should be made with a clinician.
Safe to use
Diaphragm
A flexible, internal barrier used with spermicide to prevent sperm from reaching the cervix.
Outer Condom (Penile)
A barrier worn on the penis that helps prevent pregnancy and protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
Inner Condom (Vaginal)
A condom worn inside the vagina to block sperm and protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
Cervical Cap
A reusable, hormone-free cap that covers the cervix, used with spermicide to block sperm from entering the cervix.
Fertility Awareness Methods
A hormone-free method that tracks signs of ovulation to predict fertile days.
Vaginal Gel (Phexxi)
A hormone-free gel inserted before sex that lowers vaginal pH to prevent sperm from reaching the egg.
Spermicides
An over-the-counter, hormone-free product that kills sperm before they can reach the egg.
Withdrawal (Pull Out)
A method where the penis is withdrawn before ejaculation, requiring partner cooperation.
Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)
Breastfeeding as birth control for the first six months after giving birth.
Emergency Contraception Pill
A hormone pill taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. Works best within 72 hours.
Permanent Birth Control
A permanent surgical procedure that ties or cuts the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy.
Avoid; may be considered in special situations
Progestin IUDs
A long-lasting, hormone-releasing IUD that is inserted into the uterus, blocking sperm and can lighten or stop periods.
Implant (Nexplanon)
A hormone-releasing implant inserted in the arm that works for up to 5 years and may lighten or stop periods.
The Pill (Combo Pill)
A daily pill that uses hormones (estrogen and progestin) to prevent pregnancy.
Mini-Pills (Progestin‑Only)
A daily progestin-only pill that prevents pregnancy without estrogen.
Patch
A weekly, hormone-releasing patch worn on the skin that prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation.
Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing/Annovera)
A monthly or yearly flexible ring inserted in the vagina that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.
Shot (Depo‑Provera/Depo‑SubQ)
An injection given every 3 months that uses hormones to prevent pregnancy.
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