Contraception is all about giving you control over your reproductive health, allowing you to decide when (or if) you want to become pregnant. There are many different methods available, from medications and devices to medical procedures, each with its own benefits and considerations.
This guide will walk you through the different birth control options, focusing on medications, devices, and procedures. While barrier methods (like condoms) and behavioral approaches (like tracking your cycle) are available, we’ll be focusing on the most effective medical options.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Contraceptive
When choosing a contraceptive method, it’s important to think about:
- Effectiveness – How well does it prevent pregnancy?
- Safety – Are there any health risks?
- Convenience – How easy is it to use?
- Cost & Accessibility – Is it affordable and available to you?
Talking to a healthcare provider can help you find the best option based on your lifestyle, health history, and personal preferences.
How Different Types of Birth Control Work
Birth control methods work in a few different ways:
- Preventing ovulation – Hormonal methods (like the pill, patch, or ring) stop your body from releasing an egg.
- Blocking sperm – Methods like IUDs, diaphragms, or sterilization prevent sperm from reaching the egg.
- Preventing implantation – Some IUDs create an environment where a fertilized egg can’t attach to the uterus.
Here’s a breakdown of the most effective options, starting from the most reliable.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) – Over 99% Effective
These are the most effective forms of birth control, with a failure rate of less than 1% per year.
- Implant (Nexplanon) – A tiny rod inserted under the skin that releases hormones for up to 3 years.
- Hormonal IUD (Mirena, Kyleena, etc.) – A small device placed in the uterus that releases hormones for 3-8 years.
- Copper IUD (Paragard) – A non-hormonal option that prevents pregnancy for up to 10 years.
Permanent Birth Control (Sterilization) – Over 99% Effective
For those who are sure they don’t want children (or don’t want more), sterilization is an option.
- Tubal ligation (“getting your tubes tied”) – A surgical procedure that blocks the fallopian tubes.
- Vasectomy (for male partners) – A minor procedure that prevents sperm from leaving the body.
Hormonal Methods – 91-94% Effective (When Used Correctly)
These methods contain hormones to regulate your cycle and prevent pregnancy.
- Birth Control Pills – Taken daily; can also help with acne, cramps, and PMS.
- Birth Control Patch – A small patch worn on the skin, replaced weekly.
- Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing) – A flexible ring inserted into the vagina monthly.
- Birth Control Shot (Depo-Provera) – An injection every 3 months; can cause irregular bleeding at first.
Other Options – Varying Effectiveness
- The Mini-Pill – A progestin-only pill for those who can’t take estrogen.
- Lactational Amenorrhea (for breastfeeding mothers) – Can be effective for up to 6 months if exclusively breastfeeding.
Emergency Contraception (For Backup Protection)
If you ever have unprotected sex or a birth control failure (like a condom breaking), emergency contraception can help prevent pregnancy.
- Morning-after pill (Plan B, Ella) – Works best when taken ASAP after unprotected sex.
- Copper IUD – The most effective emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days.
Potential Side Effects & Concerns
While birth control is generally safe, some methods come with potential risks or side effects, including:
- Hormonal side effects – Some women experience mood changes, headaches, or weight fluctuations.
- Irregular bleeding – Common with IUDs and the shot, but often improves over time.
- Blood clot risks – The pill, patch, and ring slightly increase the risk of blood clots, especially for smokers or those over 35.
One ongoing discussion is whether hormonal birth control slightly increases the risk of breast cancer. Some studies suggest a small increase in risk, but the overall likelihood remains low. It’s always best to talk to your doctor about what’s safest for you.
Other Benefits of Contraception
Beyond preventing pregnancy, hormonal birth control can also help with:
- Acne
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
- Heavy periods (menorrhagia)
- Endometriosis symptoms
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right birth control method is a personal decision, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The most important thing is to find an option that works best for your body, lifestyle, and future plans.
If you’re unsure which method is right for you, a healthcare provider can help guide you through your options. Whatever you choose, birth control is about having the freedom to plan your future on your terms.
Bansode OM, Sarao MS, Cooper DB. Contraception. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536949/
