Birth Control Available Through No Drama

IUD non-hormonal

IUD non-hormonal

IUD non-hormonal

Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

99%

Lasts Up To

10 Years

How it Works
  • Placed into uterus by provider
  • Releases copper ions
  • Makes it difficult for sperm to move
  • Prevents sperm from meeting and fertilizing an egg
  • Removed by provider when you want to become pregnant, switch birth control method or when it is time to be removed
  • Can be used as Emergency Contraception if placed within 5 days of unprotected sex
  • In-person visit needed
Pros
  • Safe and highly effective
  • High satisfaction rates
  • No hormones and no hormonal side effects
  • Easy to use and totally private — place it and forget it
  • Protects against endometrial and cervical cancer
  • Can be used while breastfeeding
Cons
  • Insertion can be uncomfortable
  • Spotting or heavier periods
  • Does not protect against STIs
Possible Side Effects
  • Longer, heavier periods with more cramps that should subside over time, returning to your regular period

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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IUD hormonal

IUD hormonal

IUD hormonal

Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

99%

 
Lasts Up To

3-8 Years

based on IUD selected
How it Works
  • Placed into uterus by provider
  • Releases the hormone progestin
  • Thickens cervical mucus and prevents sperm from reaching the egg
  • May also prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs
  • Makes it harder for sperm to move
  • Removed by provider when you want to become pregnant, switch birth control method or when it is time to be removed
  • In-person visit needed

Note: No Drama covers the cost for Kyleena, Liletta and Skyla IUDs. The program does not cover the cost of the Mirena IUD.

Pros
  • Safe and highly effective
  • High satisfaction rates
  • Easy to use and totally private — place it and forget it
  • Reduces cramps and makes periods lighter or stops them completely
  • Protects against endometrial cancer
  • Can be used while breastfeeding
Cons
  • Insertion can be uncomfortable
  • Irregular bleeding or spotting in the first 3–6 months
  • Does not protect against STIs
Possible Side Effects

Side effects are most common during the first 3 months of use and usually go away.
You may experience some or none of the following:

  • Cramps
  • Back pain
  • Breast tenderness
  • Headache
  • Mood changes
  • Nausea
  • Acne

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you. 
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Implant

Implant

Implant

Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

99%

Lasts Up To

5 Years

How it Works
  • Releases the hormone progestin
  • Prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs
  • Thickens cervical mucus and prevents sperm from reaching the egg
  • Removed by provider when you want to become pregnant, switch birth control method or when it is time to be removed
  • Placed in arm by provider
  • In-person visit needed
Pros
  • Easy to use and totally private – place it and forget it
  • Safe and highly effective
  • Fewer, lighter periods
  • Can be used while breastfeeding
Cons
  • Bruising or tenderness at insertion site
  • Irregular bleeding that can be unpredictable
  • Does not protect against STIs
Possible Side Effects

Side effects are most common during the first 3 months of use and usually go away.
You may experience some or none of the following:

  • Irregular bleeding or no period at all
  • Acne
  • Headache
  • Sore breasts
  • Cramping
  • Mood changes
  • Weight gain

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you. 
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Shot

Shot

Shot

Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

96%

Perfect Use: 99%
Lasts Up To

3 months

How it Works
  • Receive shot in upper arm or buttocks
  • Releases hormones to prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs
  • Thickens cervical mucus and prevents sperm from reaching the egg
  • In-person visit needed
  • 1 shot covered by No Drama
Pros
  • Totally private
  • Shorter, lighter periods or no period at all
  • Reduces menstrual cramps and PMS
  • Can be used while breastfeeding
Cons
  • Must return to provider for shot every 3 months
  • Unpredictable, irregular bleeding or spotting
  • Weight gain in some women
  • May be a delay in return to regular cycle and fertility after last shot (average of 10 months)
  • Does not protect against STIs
Possible Side Effects
  • Irregular bleeding
  • Weight gain
  • Bloating
  • Headaches
  • Breast tenderness
  • Mood swings
  • Tiredness
  • Irreversible bone thinning with long-term use
  • Rare risk of allergic reaction

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you. 
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Ring

Ring

Ring

Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

93%

Perfect Use: 99%
Lasts Up To

4 weeks

How it Works
  • Inserted into the vagina
  • Releases hormones to prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs
  • Thickens cervical mucus and prevents sperm from reaching the egg
  • In-person or virtual visit needed
  • 3-month supply covered by No Drama
Pros
  • Reduces menstrual cramps and PMS
  • Shorter, lighter periods
  • May be removed for up to 3 hours
  • Latex free
Cons
  • Increased risk of blood clots, especially for smokers or women with other cardiovascular risk factors
  • Does not protect against STIs
  • Must replace ring every month
Possible Side Effects

Side effects are most common during the first 3 months of use and usually go away.
You may experience some or none of the following:

  • Increased vaginal discharge
  • Headache
  • Sore breasts
  • Nausea
  • Mood changes
  • Irregular spotting or bleeding

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you. 
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Patch

Patch

Patch

Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

93%

Perfect Use: 99%
Lasts Up To

1 Week

How it Works
  • Sticks on skin like a band aid
  • Releases hormones to prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs
  • Thickens cervical mucus and prevents sperm from reaching the egg
  • In-person or virtual visit needed
  • 3-month supply covered by No Drama
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Does not fall off easily
  • Reduces menstrual cramps and PMS
  • Shorter, lighter periods
Cons
  • Increased risk of blood clots, especially for smokers or women with other cardiovascular risk factors
  • Must replace patch every 7 days
  • Does not protect against STIs
  • May be less effective for women who weigh more than 195 lbs.
Possible Side Effects

Side effects are most common during the first 3 months of use and usually go away.
You may experience some or none of the following:

  • Skin irritation
  • Irregular spotting or bleeding
  • Headache
  • Sore breasts
  • Nausea
  • Mood changes

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you. 
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Pill

Pill

Pill

Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

93%

Perfect Use: 99%
Lasts Up To

1 Day

How it Works
  • Take a pill by mouth every day
  • Releases hormones to prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs
  • Thickens cervical mucus and prevents sperm from reaching the egg
  • In-person or virtual visit needed
  • 3-month supply covered by No Drama
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Reduces menstrual cramps and PMS
  • Shorter, lighter periods
  • Decreased risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers
  • Clears up acne
Cons
  • Must take a pill every day
  • May be difficult to remember to take on time
  • Increased risk of blood clots, especially for smokers or women with other cardiovascular risk factors
  • Does not protect against STIs
Possible Side Effects

Side effects are most common during the first 3 months of use and usually go away.
You may experience some or none of the following:

  • Irregular bleeding, especially with missed pills
  • Headache
  • Sore breasts
  • Nausea
  • Mood changes

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you. 
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Diaphragm

Diaphragm

Diaphragm

Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

83%

Perfect Use: 84%
Lasts Up To

1 Use

How it Works
  • Inserted into vagina
  • Must be used with spermicide
  • Keeps sperm out of the uterus by blocking the cervix
  • Spermicide kills sperm
  • In-person visit needed
  • Must be inserted in vagina before sex
Pros
  • No hormones
  • Can be inserted hours before sex
  • Comfortable for both partners
  • Latex free
  • Reusable
  • Easy to clean
  • Some protection from STIs
Cons
  • Must be inserted before sex
  • May be difficult to insert
  • Can move out of place during sex
  • Must remove within 24 hours after sex and clean
  • Does not protect against STIs
Possible Side Effects
  • Temporary skin irritation due to spermicide
  • May cause urinary tract infections
  • May cause reaction for those allergic to silicone or spermicide

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you. 
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Vasectomy male sterilization

Vasectomy male sterilization

Vasectomy male sterilization

Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

99%

Lasts Up To

Forever

How it Works
  • A minimally invasive procedure for men that divides the vas deferens tubes that carry sperm
  • Dividing the tubes prevents the egg and sperm from uniting
  • Vasectomy should be considered a permanent birth control method
  • Only get sterilized if you are 100% sure you do not want to have children in the future
  • In-person visit needed
Pros
  • Affordable & effective
  • Simple and safe procedure
  • Quick recovery
  • No effect on testosterone
  • Minimal chance of complications
Cons
  • Not immediately effective
  • Permanent birth control – unable to be reversed
  • Does not protect against STIs
  • Minor surgical procedure performed in doctor's office
Possible Side Effects

After the procedure:

  • Mild discomfort, swelling and/or bruising
  • Hematoma
  • Infection

To learn more about this method, visit myvasectomydoc.com.
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd Edition

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Compare These Methods

Other Birth Control Not Available Through No Drama

Abstinence

Abstinence

Abstinence

Not Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

100%

Lasts Up To

1 Time

How it Works
  • Choosing NOT TO HAVE vaginal sex to prevent pregnancy
Pros
  • No cost, no prescriptions, no devices
  • No side effects
  • 100% effective in preventing pregnancy
  • Also protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if ALL sexual contact is avoided (oral, vaginal and anal)
Cons
  • Requires strong personal commitment
  • Partner must be supportive of abstaining
  • May be difficult to maintain in long-term relationships or under peer/social pressure
  • Backup birth control method needed if decision changes spontaneously
Possible Side Effects
  • No physical side effects
  • Emotional or relational stress if partners have differing expectations

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you.
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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FABMs Fertility Awareness-Based Methods

FABMs Fertility Awareness-Based Methods

FABMs Fertility Awareness-Based Methods

Not Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

Varies By Method Type

Lasts Up To

1 Month

How it Works
  • You track physical signs like cervical mucus changes, body temperature and menstrual cycle days to identify when you are most likely to get pregnant (fertile days).
  • To prevent pregnancy during fertile days, DO NOT have sex.
Pros
  • There are various types of fertility awareness-based methods to choose from
  • Each method requires daily monitoring
  • Hormone-free and all natural
  • Increases your body awareness and understanding of the menstrual cycle
  • Partner is engaged and supportive
  • No medical appointments, procedures or prescriptions required.
Cons
  • You MUST track your physical signs daily
  • Physical signs of fertility can be impacted by stress, illness, travel, alcohol, or shift work
  • Less effective with irregular cycles, during the postpartum period, or if you have certain health conditions like Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
  • Learning curve to gain confidence in daily monitoring
  • Doesn't protect against STIs
  • Difficult to use if partner is not supportive
Possible Side Effects
  • No physical side effects
  • Emotional or mental stress from daily tracking or fear of error
  • Potential frustration if physical signs are hard to interpret
  • Risk of pregnancy if not used correctly or consistently

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you.
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Progestin-Only Pill

Progestin-Only Pill

Progestin-Only Pill

Not Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

93%

Perfect Use: 99%
Lasts Up To

1 Day

How it Works
  • Thickens cervical mucus and prevents sperm from reaching egg
  • Prevents ovaries from releasing eggs
  • Take a pill by mouth every day about the same time each day
Pros
  • Can be safely used by most
  • Has an over-the-counter formulation (Opill)
  • Reduces menstrual cramps
  • Can be used while breastfeeding
Cons
  • Must take a pill by mouth every day about the same time each day
  • Unpredictable, irregular bleeding or spotting
  • Weight gain in some women
  • Does not protect against STIs
Possible Side Effects
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Breast tenderness
  • Fatigue
  • Acne

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you.
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Spermicide

Spermicide

Spermicide

Not Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

79%

Perfect Use: 84%
Lasts Up To

1 Use

How it Works
  • Inserted into the vagina before sex
  • Contains N-9 which kills sperm
Pros
  • Can be purchased online or in stores
  • Comes in a gel, cream or suppository
  • Can be used with other methods as a back-up
Cons
  • Must be inserted immediately before or up to one hour before sex
  • Can be messy
Possible Side Effects
  • Allergic reaction
  • Vaginal irritation
  • Urinary tract infections

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you.
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Contraceptive Gel Phexxi

Contraceptive Gel Phexxi

Contraceptive Gel Phexxi

Not Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

79%

Perfect Use: 88%
Lasts Up To

1 Use

How it Works
  • Inserted into the vagina before sex
  • The gel reduces the sperms’ ability to “swim” to the egg
Pros
  • Hormone free
  • Does not contain N-9
  • Comes in pre-filled, single use applicator
  • Provides additional lubrication
  • Can be used with other methods as a back-up
Cons
  • Must be inserted immediately before or up to one hour before sex
  • In-person or virtual visit needed
Possible Side Effects
  • Vaginal irritation

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you.
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Tubal Ligation female sterilization

Tubal Ligation female sterilization

Tubal Ligation female sterilization

Not Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

99%

Lasts Up To

Forever

How it Works
  • A procedure that blocks the fallopian tubes, preventing contact between the egg and sperm
  • Commonly referred to as “having your tubes tied”
  • Does not affect your menstrual cycle
  • Only get sterilized if you are 100% sure you do not want to have children in the future
Pros
  • Effective
  • Decreases risk of ovarian cancer
  • Hormone free
Cons
  • Does not protect against STIs
  • Permanent birth control – unable to be reversed
  • Surgical procedure
Possible Side Effects

After the procedure:

  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Gassiness or bloating
  • Shoulder pain

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about sterilization and if it is right for you.
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Condoms

Condoms

Condoms

Not Available Through No Drama
Effectiveness

87%

Perfect Use: 98%
Lasts Up To

1 Use

How it Works
  • The male condom is placed over the penis before sex
  • The female condom is placed inside the vagina before sex
  • Condoms catch semen and body fluids preventing sperm from reaching the uterus
  • Condoms are placed before sex and provide a barrier between partners
Types
  • Male or female condoms
  • With or without spermicide
  • Latex or non-latex
  • Non-latex types include polyurethane, polyisoprene and lambskin, which does not protect against HIV, HPV or Herpes
Pros
  • The only method to protect against STIs
  • Easy to find and affordable
  • Many types and sizes available
  • May help prolong intercourse for some men
Cons
  • Must be used perfectly, every time
  • May reduce sensitivity
  • May be inconvenient
Possible Side Effects
  • Possible allergies or irritation caused by certain types, brands or lubricants

Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about these methods and which is best for you. 
Source: Contraceptive Technology, 22nd edition

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Compare Methods
Available Through No Drama

  IUD(non-hormonal) IUD(hormonal) Implant Shot Ring Patch Pill Diaphragm
Effectiveness

99%

Perfect Use: 99%

99%

Perfect Use: 99%

99%

Perfect Use: 99%

96%

Perfect Use: 99%

93%

Perfect Use: 99%

93%

Perfect Use: 99%

93%

Perfect Use: 99%

83%

Perfect Use: 84%
Lasts Up To

10 Years

3-8 Years

5 Years

3 Months

4 Weeks

1 Week

1 Day

1 Use

STI Prevention Does not prevent STIs Does not prevent STIs Does not prevent STIs Does not prevent STIs Does not prevent STIs Does not prevent STIs Does not prevent STIs Does not prevent STIs
Hormone-Free Hormone-Free Not Hormone-Free Not Hormone-Free Not Hormone-Free Not Hormone-Free Not Hormone-Free Not Hormone-Free Hormone-Free
Appointment Type In Person

In Person

In Person

In Person

In Person or Virtual

In Person or Virtual

In Person or Virtual

In Person or Virtual

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