FNP certification cheat sheet
Contraception: quick reference
Method comparison, estrogen contraindications and emergency contraception.
Reviewed by a licensed nurse · 2 November 2026
Methods at a glance
| Method | Duration | Estrogen | Key point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copper IUD | Up to 10 years | No | Also works as emergency contraception |
| Levonorgestrel IUD | 3 to 8 years by product | No | Reduces menstrual bleeding |
| Implant | Up to 3 years | No | Irregular bleeding is common |
| DMPA injection | 3 months | No | Bone density effect, delayed return of fertility |
| Combined pill, patch, ring | Daily, weekly, monthly | Yes | Avoid with aura, thrombosis, smoking at 35 or older |
| Progestin-only pill | Daily | No | Strict timing, a 3-hour window for norethindrone |
Emergency contraception
- ·Copper IUD: most effective, within 5 days.
- ·Ulipristal: within 5 days.
- ·Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg: best within 72 hours and works up to 5 days with lower efficacy.
- ·Reduced effect of oral options at higher body weight, so consider an IUD.
Educational content for exam preparation. It is not clinical guidance and does not replace your facility's policies, current professional guidelines or the advice of a qualified clinician.
boardreadynurse.com · CDC: U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use