What are my options if I want something more effective than withdrawal, but don't want to visit a doctor?

I want something more effective, but still don't want to visit the doctor.

Nov 03, 2021 Updated: Aug 28, 2025

If you want to stick with a method that doesn’t require talking to a health care provider, condoms and the over-the-counter birth control pill are more effective at preventing pregnancy than withdrawal (a.k.a., the pull-out method) and available with a prescription.

Still not working?

You can also get emergency contraception without a prescription over the counter or online. Since over-the-counter EC pills are most effective at preventing pregnancy the sooner you take them after sex, it’s great to have on hand in case you need it in the future.

Want to learn more?

Select one of the related topics to find more.

how-to birth control withdrawal (pull out) method

Related methods

Dive in and learn all the details about these related birth control methods.

birth control
Withdrawal (pull-out method)
Very effective if you do it correctly (but that can be hard to do). Hormone-free, zero cost, zero side effects.
birth control
Emergency contraception
Emergency contraception (EC) provides the possibility of pregnancy prevention after the fact.
birth control
Condom
Very effective if you use them correctly, but not super effective the way most people use them. Hormone free, protect against STIs, and don't require a prescription, but they do require work.
birth control
Internal condom (FC2)
Very effective if you use them correctly, but not super effective the way most people use them. Hormone free, protect against STIs, and great for those with latex allergies.