The right or best birth control method differs from person to person. The right birth control is the one that most fits into your lifestyle and most effectively prevents pregnancy for you
What should you consider?
There are several factors to consider when choosing the “right” birth control. Some of them include:
Degree on Effectiveness
More than 99% effective
- Contraceptive implants
- Hormonal and copper intrauterine device (IUD)
- Female sterilization
- Male sterilization
More than 99% effective if used correctly, but less than 95% effective with typical use
- Contraceptive injection
- Oral pills (either combined pill or progestin-only pill)
- Contraceptive patch
- Vaginal ring
98% effective if used correctly
- Male condom
95% effective if used correctly
- Female condom
92-96% effective if used correctly
- Diaphragm or cap
Frequency of use
Permanent
- Male sterilization
- Female sterilization
Long-acting
- Contraceptive implant (every three years)
- Hormonal IUD (every five years)
- Copper IUD (every 5 to 10 years)
Every 2 to 3 months
- Contraceptive implant
Every month
- Vaginal month
Every week
- Contraceptive patch
Daily basis
- Oral contraceptive pill (the combined pills can be taken every day for three weeks with a week off each month).
Every time you have sex
- Male condom
- Female condom
- Diaphragm or cap
Will you need skilled help?
You will need a health professional to help you with the following birth control methods:
- Contraceptive implant
- Hormonal and copper IUD
Protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
If you want your birth control methods also to protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), you may be looking at:
- Male and female condoms
Other things to consider include:
- Mode of action
- Your weight
- If you smoke
- Partner(s)’ preferences
- Cost
- Side-effects
- Future plans for a child
You can talk to your doctor or health provider to provide details on whatever concerns you have about choosing the right birth control.
