Many people assume you always need to see a physician to access birth control, but that’s not always true. There are several effective birth control options you can use without a doctor’s visit, prescriptions, or in‑office procedures. These methods range from permanent options handled by outpatient providers, to temporary and over‑the‑counter methods you can manage yourself.
This guide reviews different types of birth control that do not require seeing a physician to start using them, how they work, how effective they are, and what to consider when choosing the right option for you.
Cervical Cap
A cervical cap (FemCap in the U.S.) is a silicone cup placed over the cervix. It must be used with spermicide.
How it works
- Blocks cervix
- Spermicide kills or slows sperm
Effectiveness
- Never given birth: 86% effective
- After childbirth: 71% effective
STI protection
- Does NOT protect against STIs
Risks
- Vaginal irritation from spermicide
- Increased risk of UTIs
- Rare risk of toxic shock syndrome if left in too long
Birth Control Sponge
The sponge is a soft, round device placed deep in the vagina before sex. It covers the cervix and contains spermicide.
How it works
- Physical barrier
- Releases spermicide
Effectiveness
Never pregnant:
- Perfect use: 91%
- Typical use: 86%
Previously pregnant:
- Perfect use: 80%
- Typical use: 78%
Using condoms with the sponge improves protection.
STI protection
- Does NOT protect against STIs
Risks
- Irritation from spermicide
- Very small risk of toxic shock syndrome
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a shallow silicone cup placed over the cervix and must be used with spermicide.
How it works
- Blocks sperm from entering cervix
- Spermicide kills or slows sperm
Effectiveness
- Perfect use: 94%
- Typical use: 83%
STI protection
- Does NOT protect against STIs
Risks
- Vaginal irritation
- Increased UTIs
- Rare toxic shock syndrome if left too long
Internal (Female) Condoms
Internal condoms are placed inside the vagina or anus. They are made of nitrile and are latex‑free.
How they work
- Physical barrier blocks sperm and bodily fluids
Effectiveness
- Perfect use: 95%
- Typical use: 79%
STI protection
- YES — protect against STIs
Tips
- Practice improves comfort
- Use extra lubricant
- Can be part of foreplay
External (Male) Condoms
Condoms are worn on the penis during sex and protect against pregnancy and STIs.
Types
Latex
- Use water‑based or silicone lube
- No oils
Non‑latex (polyurethane, nitrile, polyisoprene)
- For latex allergy
- Some allow oil‑based lube
Lambskin
- Prevent pregnancy
- Do NOT protect against STIs
How condoms protect
- Block sperm
- Reduce skin‑to‑skin contact
Pro tip: Condoms can be cut open and placed over the vulva for safer oral sex.
Effectiveness
- Perfect use: 98%
- Typical use: 87%
Side effects
- Rare latex irritation
- Switch to non‑latex if sensitive
Spermicide and Contraceptive Gel (Phexxi)
Spermicide
Spermicide is placed in the vagina before sex. It blocks the cervix and slows sperm.
Forms include:
- Creams
- Gels
- Foams
- Films
- Suppositories
It can be used alone or with condoms and is required when using a diaphragm or cervical cap.
Effectiveness (Spermicide)
- Perfect use: 82% effective
- Typical use: 79% effective
Best when combined with condoms or withdrawal.
Phexxi Contraceptive Gel
Phexxi is a prescription vaginal gel that lowers vaginal pH to prevent sperm from moving.
Effectiveness (Phexxi)
- Perfect use: 93% effective
- Typical use: 86% effective
Can be combined with condoms, withdrawal, diaphragm, or hormonal methods (not with vaginal ring).
STI protection
- Neither spermicide nor Phexxi protect against STIs
- Use condoms for STI protection
Side effects
- Vaginal irritation
- Burning with urination
- Itching or unusual discharge
Frequent use of nonoxynol‑9 spermicide may slightly increase STI risk due to irritation.
Fertility Awareness Methods (Natural Family Planning)
These methods track your menstrual cycle to avoid sex or use protection during fertile days.
What are fertile days?
These are days when ovulation may occur and sperm can fertilize an egg.
Tracking methods
Using all three together is most effective:
Temperature Method
- Track basal body temperature every morning
Cervical Mucus Method (Billings/Ovulation Method)
- Observe daily vaginal discharge changes
Calendar Method
- Chart cycles on paper
Standard Days Method (variation)
- If cycles are 26–32 days, avoid sex or use protection on days 8–19
Effectiveness
- 77–98% effective, depending on consistency and method accuracy
Less reliable if:
- Periods are irregular
- Only one tracking method is used
Withdrawal (Pull‑Out Method)
Withdrawal means removing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation.
How effective is withdrawal?
- 78% effective with typical use
Pre‑ejaculate can contain sperm, so pregnancy is still possible even with perfect timing.
STI protection
- Does NOT protect against STIs
Because of the higher failure rate, keeping emergency contraception available is strongly recommended if using this method.
Breastfeeding (Lactational Amenorrhea Method — LAM)
Breastfeeding can temporarily prevent pregnancy when done under very specific conditions. This method is called the Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM).
When you exclusively breastfeed, your body suppresses ovulation. Without ovulation, pregnancy cannot occur.
Requirements for LAM to work
All of the following must be true:
- Baby is under 6 months old
- You are exclusively breastfeeding (no formula, pumping, or solid foods)
- Baby feeds at least every 4 hours during the day and every 6 hours at night
- You have not had a return of your period
Effectiveness
- About 98% effective in the first 6 months when used correctly
How long does it work?
- Only during the first 6 months after birth and only if all criteria are met
Other birth control options while breastfeeding
Providers often recommend waiting at least 12 months before becoming pregnant again to reduce risks of short‑interval pregnancy.
Safe options while breastfeeding include:
Non‑hormonal
- Condoms
- Copper IUD (placed by provider)
Hormonal (progestin‑only)
- Shot
- Implant
- Hormonal IUD
- Progestin‑only pills (mini‑pill)
For the first 3 weeks after birth, avoid estrogen‑containing methods (combined pill, patch, ring). After 3 weeks, these may be started.
Permanent options include fallopian tube removal or partner vasectomy.
Final Thoughts
No single birth control method is perfect for everyone. Your best option depends on your health, relationship status, STI risk, desire for future pregnancy, and how comfortable you are using each method consistently.
If you want the highest pregnancy prevention, long‑acting methods like IUDs and implants are most effective, though they do require a healthcare visit. For many people, combining methods — such as condoms plus spermicide or fertility tracking — provides both flexibility and added protection.
If you ever experience persistent irritation, pain, unusual discharge, or symptoms of infection, contact a healthcare provider.
Please see these resources for more information: