Women Veterans Health Care

Birth Control

Birth control refers to methods a person can use to avoid unintended pregnancy. There are many forms of birth control to choose from.

While there is no one "best" method of birth control, there is probably a best choice for you and your needs. VA can help you decide which method is right for you. Things to think about when choosing a birth control method include:

• Future pregnancy plans, if any
• Convenience
• How effective the method is at preventing pregnancy
• How often the method is taken or used
• Possible side effects
• Non-contraceptive benefits (such as fewer or lighter periods)
• Expected menstrual changes
• Privacy
• Your medical health conditions and medications

It is important to discuss your medical history with your provider, as certain conditions or medications may make some birth control methods better options than others.

If your contraception fails or you have unprotected intercourse, VA offers emergency contraception options to reduce your risk for an unplanned pregnancy.

What services does VA provide for birth control?

VA provides comprehensive contraception care services and offers a wide range of birth control options for Veterans. These include:

• Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs): Contraceptive Implant, Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
• Hormonal Methods: Pill, Patch, Ring, Injection
• Barrier Methods: Condoms, Sponges, Cervical Cap, Spermicides
• Same-Day Emergency Contraception
• Sterilization: Tubal Ligation, Bilateral Salpingectomy (removal of both fallopian tubes)

Talk with your VA primary care provider or Women's Health Clinical Pharmacist to decide what form of birth control is right for you. For IUD insertions or implants, you may be referred to a gynecologist.

How do I access services for birth control at VA?

All Veterans enrolled in VA health care are eligible to receive contraception care and prescriptions. The first step to access contraception care services and birth control is to schedule an appointment with your VA primary care provider. They will discuss options for birth control and help you decide which method is right for you at the appointment. If you are currently using prescription birth control that you want to continue, it is helpful to bring your prescription with you so that your provider can help you choose the same or similar method. Most types of birth control found in the community are also offered by VA. Depending on your preference, VA's pharmacy can provide your prescriptions on-site or by mail order. For many Veterans, the cost of contraception is fully covered by VA.

Where can I find more information, help, and resources on birth control?

• Check out information on contraception from the CDC.*
• Birth control options available through VA
• VA Reproductive Services brochure

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The Women Veterans Call Center is your guide to women's health

If you have questions or can't find what you're looking for, you can call, text, or chat online with the Women Veterans Call Center (WVCC) at 855-829-6636 to get help and find available resources and services in your area. Trained women representatives can also:

• Provide you with information on enrolling in VA health care if you have not already
• Provide you with information on setting up a medical appointment in your area
• Provide you with information about your eligibility (including questions about disability ratings) and other VA benefits like employment, education, and home loans
• Connect you with your local VA Medical Center or local women's health contact who can assist in coordinating all the services you need

WVCC representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.

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