Birth Control and Contraception

Contraception is much more than just condoms. The pill? The patch? An IUD? How can you choose the right birth control method for your needs? Our providers can offer the education you need to make the best decision for your lifestyle.

The Pill

We provide prescriptions for oral contraceptive pills, which can be filled at the University Health Center Pharmacy or another pharmacy of your choosing.

Emergency Contraception

This pill can stop a pregnancy before it starts. Emergency contraception is available at the health center pharmacy; no prescription is needed.

Condoms

The Women's Center and LGBTQA+ Resource Center provide free safer sex kits with external condoms and lubricant. These kits can be picked up at various locations across campus, including the University Health Center. External condoms are also available for purchase at the University Health Center Pharmacy. Free internal condoms, dental dams, flavored condoms and flavored lube are available by request through the Women's Center and LGBTQA+ Resource Center.

Intrauterine Device

An IUD is a small, flexible contraceptive device that is inserted into the uterus. We provide prescriptions and insertions for IUD, such as Mirena, Skyla and more. Click here for more information.

The Implant

The implant, sometimes referred to as Nexplanon, is small, thin and flexible and can be placed discreetly under the skin of your inner upper arm. We can prescribe and insert Nexplanon at the health center. Click here for more information.

Injectable Hormones (Depo Provera Injection)

This shot can be given every three months and is available at the health center. Click here for more information.

The Ring

The ring, sometimes referred to as NuvaRing, is a small, flexible ring that can be inserted into the vagina for three weeks to prevent your ovaries from releasing eggs. Click here for more information.

If there are any contraceptive services we do not offer, or if you cannot afford contraceptive services at the health center, we can refer you to community resources that can assist you.

Contraception eLearning module

Before you arrive for your contraception/birth control appointment at the University Health Center, it is best to know which method you prefer so that you can make the most of your time with the provider. We have partnered with the UNMC College of Nursing-Lincoln Division to offer a free educational eLearning module to help you explore your birth control options. The survey module should take no more than 15 minutes to complete

Once completed, you are ready for your appointment. If you still aren't sure which method is best for you and your lifestyle, that is OK. Write down any questions you have and share them during your appointment. Your provider is happy to give you the information you need to make an informed decision. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m ready to start my first birth control pill pack. What do I need to know? 
 

View our oral contraceptive pills handout for more information.

I forgot to take my pill. What do I do? 
 

It’s important to take the pill at the same time every day, but sometimes things don’t always go according to plan. If you miss one pill, take it as soon as you remember and continue your regular pill schedule. If you miss two pills in a row, take two pills daily for two days, then finish the pack. If you miss three or more pills, start a new pill pack and expect breakthrough bleeding until your period starts. Use backup contraception.

What if I don’t like my birth control pills or want to switch to another type of contraception? 
 

Unless your provider has told you otherwise, finish the package of pills before discontinuing them. If you have unpleasant side effects, message your provider in your One Chart patient portal or call 402-472-5000 to speak to a nurse. You can usually switch to a different birth control method at the end of your pack without any loss in contraceptive protection.

How do I get emergency contraception? 
 

Emergency contraception (Plan B) is available for purchase at the University Health Center Pharmacy. The sooner the medication can be taken, the more effective it is. If the health center pharmacy is closed or if you are out of town, most pharmacies carry Plan B.