---
title: Contraceptive Choices Poster
date: 2025-08-29T12:02:00-04:00
author: Jonese Austin
canonical_url: "https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/contraceptives-choices-poster"
section: Resources
---
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[Health & Sexuality Info](/health-info)# Contraceptive Choices Poster

This downloadable poster provides information on contraceptives, including emergency contraception. It details how to use different forms of birth control, key facts about each, and how effective they are.

[Download the poster ](https://www.reproductiveaccess.org/resource/birth-control-choices-poster/)

SOURCE: Reproductive Health Access Project • LAST UPDATED: April 16, 2024

![A marble table with contraceptive methods and a pregnancy test](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACAAAAAVCAIAAACor3u9AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAACgklEQVQ4jV2VUY7kOAxDH1O5/yFn5xYV8+2H7KruAYLAgWNRlGgqf/77qyrWtmu1yzWLts4mIBcJuZJZhEQQtbVt27Vc7bPaWq33Po4wC8CfSwQkIAQUIYFzFM9fDtz3LNzMj+JZzGYUiar5YBYuECsXYDj0rd90PKDe2sFQ2ZWSiqaqg0EgkJPeJuROrP35DCiK3toBs2onHZRKjVp3psHs5BK9dgVlp2XrUOkOh97thwFWWs47rTV21y5TLKleUM2uwxGJromudvpx96zYinFgUm2zPsiKRi6NXoN3GPCjttOOShkGa7rnrz1dZR1Cm0SNXm300tS42+B5yvxFtwJ3iaiWD77LXagl07r5jm2bmnaoUDIS+37RDz3udRhwAL481tT0tI6WrrRZ3QDddWOTiURSYjL34DDYACkfAM9tHIzSxVrpymq6NpXd55HYZS6JXG6Me7VACpLpxOjiiMF21LHooov1ZGDabC3v6HA5T5TLBO52O01+MDja+xKoXXbRhz7pk7Xoyj4AXHrBS15jAkYJ+Q3wQ3tburt4Lljw6INvfPRJ6yqd+lx4HQd4nc5c5l6n3Z/3V3hYPNF98IE3vvXBRxcWocGXvo7tKS8z/nW3hN8A2yA1FFZYYcGSFR55w/BYx3RypHYsDgwQubeB7txxdob2id4BCI88B+MNa5uz2dGn5RxlccE9LchYmMSMoU8SnehhwXPxyGMeeJsHnuPO1zf67wsO9z/zZg+VnYRNmjQsUrJbvRueNQKCS9gW1UuWpnsu3O6S/BpkZqevm0RhQXfQjbT4xJnLNRe0I8HhcH+GXsw0wC+fmQOYM1lyLsy+NoxE8rWC7cvVS8T/AZwQO+ikqVNbAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC) RFBSIP/Adobe Stock

![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)Topics

- [ contraception](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/subject-area/contraception)
- [ contraception methods & access](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/themes/birth-control-methods-access)
- [long acting reversible contraception (LARC)](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/long-acting-reversible-contraception-larc)
- [birth control pill](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/birth-control-pill)
- [condom (external)](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/condoms)
- [condom (internal)](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/female-condom)
- [IUD (intra-uterine device)](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/iud-intra-uterine-device)
- [sterilization](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/sterilization)

![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)### *Why You Can* **Trust Us** 

- We rigorously evaluate all content
- We embrace a reproductive justice framework
- We don’t accept ads or sell products
- We reject funding from the pharmaceutical industry
- We counter misinformation and disinformation
- We address the social, political, and economic factors that affect health and sexuality

[read more](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/why-you-can-trust-us)

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##### More to Explore

[ResourcesWatch

## A Conversation about Contraceptive Choice and Reproductive Autonomy with Dr. Kristyn Brandi

OBOS program associate Grace Koch hosts a crucial conversation with OB-GYN and Complex Family Planning Subspecialist Dr. Kristyn Brandi, about access to contraception, freedom of choice, and the impact of birth control on our reproductive autonomy.

![Video cover for interview with Dr. Kristyn Brandi](data:image/png;base64,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)

OBOS program associate Grace Koch hosts a crucial conversation with OB-GYN and Complex Family Planning Subspecialist Dr. Kristyn Brandi, about access to contraception, freedom of choice, and the impact of birth control on our reproductive autonomy.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/a-conversation-about-contraceptive-choice-and-reproductive-autonomy-with-dr-kristyn-brandi)

[ResourcesRead

## About Birth Control

This interactive page from Planned Parenthood helps you find birth control methods in line with your priorities.

![What's the contraceptive method of your choice?](data:image/png;base64,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)

This interactive page from Planned Parenthood helps you find birth control methods in line with your priorities.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/about-birth-control)

[ResourcesRead

## How to Get Birth Control: A State-by-State Guide

This state-by-state guide provides an overview of the laws and policies around contraception in each state and ways to secure birth control and emergency contraception.

![Birth Control scaled jpeg](data:image/png;base64,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)

This state-by-state guide provides an overview of the laws and policies around contraception in each state and ways to secure birth control and emergency contraception.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/how-to-get-birth-control-a-state-by-state-guide)

[ResourcesWatch

## Beyond the Pill: Birth Control For Your Life!

In this video, young women share their experiences of finding the birth control method that works best for them.

![Birth Control For Your Life](data:image/png;base64,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)

In this video, young women share their experiences of finding the birth control method that works best for them.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/beyond-the-pill-birth-control-for-your-life)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## Dealing with Contraception Side Effects

MT shares her experience using birth control to treat heavy, painful periods. She addresses problems with the first birth control pill that she tried.

![My Story- Dealing With Contraception Side Effects](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACAAAAAgCAIAAAD8GO2jAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAFP0lEQVRIiWVWwY5ktw2sovS6Zwzkmv+/5JirfyhGHMSLjbPe7XmSyKoc9Hp2NiYIQWi8riIpiSz+/Pe/RbAf7eV+e3m9/fR6f329v77e7/fjdhytRZC2q2qtNc55vp2Px9vj8Xh8ezwej/N8jHlmDiMZiu7e47hF79F6RGPHZfywufaG8dH8w94AYBvPHeD9q/3hswD5I/r19f7nXj6a/rRu+wi7ebf1HTJ34OYOyE8O2zJtyP7u2qukvUqy4dAm4jMuGOwEdxLe4ZtPaMigQNqy5JKrpFJJVU+XajNAgChafi8AjA4EQSA2h325LgKTkFzlKpeUpayqqr2+GyDAIehDzexniQDCcZXIkLYbIGFduMq81pWVWStzb6oKrAazRRMlWLZgohOB7xmETe3whSrYBq3yDnyV1oWba313KUkBiIIqLvRnBpvgiS5akFACZQGwJa3USq1Va+VcNVduX2uttaSMEMAIVJPKapZAPgm867OrL5QQMsohG6660GfWhT5zzDXnmnOtuewVYYDRoIoqt7LDuq6piX28V+xs5QoDFiGrSis3eo6VY+aY6/Ixcy17tWagRbC3pi6VFSbd/Y7+vfougbXfpW1l1Vo1V81Zc+aca8wcY53nHGPWGnC2DkKtMbN6qpojDLh/DP+9+lEGd4qWlam5as6cK8fMc64x5jnmGHOcM9ck8igQR2uRvWWqNUWYcLdpkKJMCSqoXGHDETYsVV6lr6s4I8+xzjHfzjHPUWsQqYMkeovee/WqpgjB7DKIHbsllLzDb5BEQ6V9ea6z3cd7jnWe8zzneBtaZ7BcEURvcfSevVoUGTD6fg6EKZTMcoRBGQHKcFWtrLlqzZozd/XHuc5znW9jPM5aZ2P53oLorR396D1btItAuhofywornCEDYYOwVarn9c8riZG7+udjnI+hdTamqzfi6H0eq/ejtU6mjV5lEgCKYpCxe59kgtcVylVr1Zq1Zl63aKzxNs+3+fbt1Hj0SNTRg/3ox3HMvlprBCX0KpG0CZIUyD0nIgBCrk2Qq3LlWk+OkeNc52Ocf5x1Pnos1K03Hkcfx6333qIB7PJHgu99r8EKgpaqqjIzV2VW7jY0c42c5xrf5vnft/zja28n6947j+M4jltvPaIBVKlXisR+FcA132zGkyB3a87MVbWqVuWsnLnONb/N8e9zffnc8OA6em/H7XYct9Z7RBio6j2zSES47QHBPfHoAGhdKVTtdpoXR82qs9aXNb48Bh4NiN/Wcf/tdv+RoNc7gYwAGmkgmuMi8PsoKOXVtZ2lVTWy/pMTj/NZ2v7L2/HT7/1+b0dnUHY/es9MkhG8JjwbYFhu3I1IVcryNSflklNY8pC+ZOLrCRggcAC3f306Xl/a0UjI6nm8ZxCACZMm2u5O5JOgSlUovbtLmDKqsE5gALszH1/QP/8SR983sB+3K4MWAgIMspEmAg0kbLnq6iHPQQqJJSwDMjCAP4AJHMAB9H8gXv6JsJz9duuVRcLBfQBBRLjg60ZZrh/Qd09ngbn1CSYAYACfnxzx60T7Rf5rv788M2gkzWgtUOGgDWJLAL2jG9pjD7Qjvc82nxrrK/CyCb6Cn0r+tb+89KoiCZNEBCrQwqIJxn7UEizYtLYEox0GhYAJ6IOi/ATc95j8BBH9L+d+yQAiCgq48QIkHaD9FAibw5dG25rsg+h8t8/ADQjAv+FY6JKCNCVBl6rgVk5blm75wUvY4uKAw5cm/D97A74BB0BAv6NbVoAbSx/FLHbDvmTmR7n9TvYn9G0P4Ken7P0fIrpelaWC+2gAAAAASUVORK5CYII=)

MT shares her experience using birth control to treat heavy, painful periods. She addresses problems with the first birth control pill that she tried.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-dealing-with-contraception-side-effects)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## Controlling My Period with the Pill

AB describes how birth control made it easier to predict when her period would start.

![My Story- Controlling My Period with the Pill](data:image/png;base64,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)

AB describes how birth control made it easier to predict when her period would start.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-controlling-my-period-with-the-pill)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## Wishing I Had Knowledge of Menstrual Cycles at a Younger Age

L discusses the taboo around birth and menstruation in her French culture and the process of learning to chart her menstrual cycle as an adult.

![Free Menstruation Stock Photo Gallery:When period blood turns into art- A photo gallery](data:image/png;base64,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)

L discusses the taboo around birth and menstruation in her French culture and the process of learning to chart her menstrual cycle as an adult.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-wishing-i-had-knowledge-of-menstrual-cycles-at-a-younger-age)

[ResourcesRead

## Contraception and Depression

How might hormonal contraception affect our mental health? Can it contribute to anxiety and depression?

![The back of a woman sitting on a bed in front of a window](data:image/png;base64,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)

How might hormonal contraception affect our mental health? Can it contribute to anxiety and depression?](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/contraception-and-depression)