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Part 1: Contraceptives 

Considerations When Choosing Contraceptives

  • Cost 
  • Is this contraceptive covered by insurance?
  • Will your location affect the cost? 


  • Availability & Accessibility
  • Do you need a prescription? How often does that prescription need to be renewed? 
  • Are you able to purchase this contraceptive where your tour is going? 


  • Reliability 
  • Is the contraceptive(s) supporting your  needs (pregnancy prevention, STI prevention, acne/helping with periods)? 
  • Could it's efficacy affected by a dynamic work schedule? 


  • Frequency of Use/Renewal 
  • Will time zones, work schedules, or access to privacy affect your ability to effectively use this contraceptive?
  • Do you need to pre-order & bring a certain quantity for your normal length of time on the road? 

Some, but not all, Birth Control Options 

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Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) 

LARCs offer roadies reliable birth control without the worry of refilling prescriptions, remembering to take medication at a certain time. LARCs do not prevent against STIs. 


Hormonal IUDs &  Non-Hormonal IUDs

  • 99% Effective
  • Can cost $0 to $1,800
  • Lasts Up To 3-12 years


Implant

  • 99% Effective
  • Can cost $0 to $2,300
  • Lasts Up To 5 years


Shot, Ring, Patch & Pill 

These birth control methods  offer roadies convenient options. However, they need to be taken/used on a regular cadence to be effective which can be challenging with by tour schedules & changing time zones. These BC methods do not prevent against STIs. 

 

The Shot

  • 96% Effective
  • Can cost $0 to $150
  • Get every 13-15 weeks


The Ring

  • 93% Effective
  • Can cost $0 to $200
  • Replace every 1 month to 1 year (depending on brand)


The Patch

  • 93% Effective
  • Can cost $0 to $150
  • Replace weekly


The Pill

  • 93% Effective
  • Can cost $0 to $50
  • Take daily


External & Internal Condoms

Condoms are an effective way to prevent STIs & pregnancy when used correctly. Condoms come in a variety of materials and are fairly accessible. Keep in mind expiration dates, lube compatibility & allergies when selecting a condom. 


External Condom (for people with penises)

  • 87% Effective
  • Can cost $0 to $2
  • Use every time


Internal Condom (for people with vulvas) 

  • 79% Effective
  • Can cost $0 to $3
  • Use every time


Planned Parenthood 

Emergency Contraceptives 

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EC Pills "Morning After Pills"

Can be taken within 5 days (120 hours) after having unprotected sex but are most effective when used as soon as possible.


"Ella" or ulipristal acetate pill 

  • Most effective morning after pill
  • You will need a prescription 
  • But many online providers can offer virtual consultation, prescription & next day shipping. 
  • Less effective for people over 195 lbs. 

"Plan B" or levonorgestrel pill

  • Available over-the-counter at most drug stores
  • Most effective if taken within 3 days (72 Hours) 
  • May not work  for people over 165 lbs


Intrauterine Device (IUD) 

IUDs can be used as emergency contraception

  • Just as effective if placed on Day 1 or Day 5 after having unprotected sex.
  • Efficacy is not affected by weight 
  • You will need to see a provider to get an IUD
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