Birth Control Options

Find the birth control option that fits you best.

Everyone weighs birth control choices differently. Use this page to compare your options. Each card gives a quick overview; the fact sheets cover the details.

Need birth control? We can help!

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English: (616) 396-5266 | Spanish: (616) 393-5780

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If you call us when we are closed and need to make an appointment, fill out this form (English or Spanish). We will get back to you as soon as we can during regular business hours. For emergencies, call 9-1-1.

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Most birth control methods do not protect against STIs. You can use condoms along with another method to help protect against STIs and HIV. Order free condoms by mail or pick up at a participating location with the Wear One program.

Birth Control Pill

(Combined Oral Contraceptive)

You take it yourself.
Needs a prescription.

A daily pill that helps prevent pregnancy and can make periods more predictable. It works best if you take it at the same time every day.

Fact Sheet
English Spanish

Birth Control Ring

(Vaginal Ring)

Needs a prescription.
About 91% effective.

A small, bendable ring. You place it in your vagina for 3 weeks, then remove it for the 4th week. Staying on schedule keeps it effective.

Fact Sheet
English Spanish

External Condom

No prescription needed.
Either partner can pick them up.

Worn on the penis during sex, a condom can help protect against pregnancy, STIs, and HIV. It works only when used every time. Get Free Condoms

Fact Sheet
English Spanish

Internal Condom

No prescription needed.
Prevents pregnancy about 79% of the time.

You place an internal condom inside the vagina before sex. It has no hormones.

Fact Sheet
English Spanish

Emergency Contraception

(Morning-After Pill)

Some types need a prescription.

Lowers the chance of pregnancy after unprotected sex. It works best the sooner you take it. It is not for regular birth control.

Fact Sheet
English Spanish

A healthcare provider places or gives these

Copper IUD

A provider inserts and removes it.

A provider places this hormone-free intrauterine device (IUD) in your uterus. It works right away and lasts up to 10 years. Once it is in, you do not have to do anything daily or monthly.

Fact Sheet
English Spanish

Hormonal IUD

A provider inserts and removes it.
Over 99% effective.

A provider places this small IUD in your uterus. It releases a hormone (progestin) and lasts up to 8 years.

Fact Sheet
English Spanish

Birth Control Implant

(Progestin-Only)

A provider inserts and removes it.
Over 99% effective.

A provider places a thin, flexible rod under the skin of your upper arm. It lasts up to 5 years.

Fact Sheet
English Spanish

Depo Shot

(Depo-Provera)

A provider gives the shot.
When used on schedule, over 96% effective.

A shot of hormones that stops your ovaries from releasing eggs. A provider gives it every 3 months.

Fact Sheet
English Spanish

Contact Us

Department of Public Health

Holland

12251 James St
Holland, MI 49424
Directions

Monday – Friday
8:00am – 5:00pm

Clinic Closed Daily
12:15pm – 1:15pm

Grand Haven

1207 South Beechtree St
Suite B
Grand Haven, MI 49417
Directions

By appointment only.

Hudsonville

3100 Port Sheldon Rd
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Directions

By appointment only.

Phone: (616) 396-5266

Español: (616) 393-5780

Clinic Fax: (616) 393-5659

Environmental Health Fax:
(616) 393-5643

Media Contact
Alison Clark
aclark@miottawa.org
(616) 494-5597

Have a question or concern?

Submit public health concerns or questions to the Ottawa County Department of Public Health.

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