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.

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