Hormonal birth control methods release hormones similar to the ones made in a female's body. No hormonal method will protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).  Hormonal methods, when used properly, have up to a 99% effectiveness rate.  Most of these methods require a prescription from a doctor. Hormonal methods do three things to a female's body:

1. Stop an egg from being released
2. Thicken the cervical mucus, so it's harder for sperm to get into the uterus
3. Thin the lining of the uterus, so if an egg is fertilized, it can't attach itself

What is the BIRTH CONTROL PILL?
Birth control pills help prevent pregnancy; they must be taken every day at the same time for them to be the most effective.

What is the BIRTH CONTROL PATCH?
The patch looks similar to a Band-Aid, and is placed on your skin and changed weekly for three weeks. The fourth week is a patch-free week, for your menstrual cycle. After the fourth week a new patch must be used and begin the monthly process over. The patch can be put on the upper buttocks, lower abdomen, upper arm, or shoulders.

What is the NUVA RING?
The ring is a flexible ring that is inserted into the vaginal canal and is left inside the vagina for three weeks. During that time, the ring releases a dose of hormones to the body. After the third week the ring is removed for a week to continue the menstrual cycle.

What is the DEPO SHOT?
The shot contains hormones that are injected into your arm by a health care provider every three months.

What is ECP?
The Emergency Contraception Pill (ECP) can prevent pregnancy up to 120 hours (or five days) after unprotected intercourse. The sooner you take it after unprotected sex, the better the effectiveness. In most pharmacies in the state of California you do not need a prescription for ECP, though they might cost you some money. ECP can be up to 89% effective.

What types of birth control does The Saban Free Clinic offer?
At The Saban Free Clinic we offer a variety of birth control options. We offer the birth control pills, the OrthroEvra birth control patch, the Nuva Ring and the Depo-Provera shot. We also offer ECP, the Emergency Contraceptive Pill. Abortions are not performed at The Saban Free Clinic, but our staff is available to talk with you and provide you with an appropriate referral for the option of your choice.

How do I get a birth control method?
Most hormonal birth control methods require you to see a health care provider (with the exception of ECP). You can simply schedule an appointment at The Saban Free Clinic, where you can discuss with a doctor the best method for you. You can pick up all your prescriptions at our clinic.

If you are not sure which birth control method is right for you, there are counselors available to talk to prior to seeing the doctor.

Do I need to see the doctor before I get ECP?
There are pharmacies that offer ECP without a prescription. You can call: 1-800-NOT-2-LATE for the pharmacy nearest you.
 
You can also go to The Saban Free Clinic and get ECP for free. You would have to see a doctor to get a pregnancy test to make sure you are not already pregnant. If the test is negative, you can get ECP. If the pregnancy test is positive, the doctor will not authorize you to get ECP.