When considering which birth control option to use, women have a wide range of options to consider. Birth control comes in many forms: pills, patches, injections, and intrauterine devices. When determining the right birth control options for you, take into consideration several factors, including your desire to become pregnant, the nature of your relationships (i.e., fully monogamous or non-monogamous), your personal preference, and your medical history.
When taken correctly, most forms of birth control are highly effective at preventing pregnancy.
What to Consider When Choosing Birth Control?
The following factors are items to consider when choosing the birth control method that will best suit your needs. This includes:
- How long you intend to use birth control
- Your ability to take pills on a routine and regular basis
- A preference for short-acting, long-acting, or permanent birth control methods
Short-Acting Methods
Include birth control pills, patches, or injections that are used on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.
Long-Acting Methods
Include the copper IUD, hormonal IUD, or implant. Long-acting methods last for 3-10 years after insertion (depending on the device) or until you decide to have the device removed.
Permanent Methods
Include tubal ligation, where the fallopian tubes are cut, tied, or blocked to prevent pregnancy permanently.
Alongside your personal preference, your doctor will also consider other factors when recommending birth control, such as your current and past medical history.
Brief Overview of Different Birth Control Options
Birth Control Pills
Pills are a highly effective option for birth control. With typical use, they are greater than 91% effective. Birth control pills must be taken daily and consistently. The first three weeks of pills contain a combination of estrogen and progesterone, and the fourth week’s pills are inactive. The inactive pills allow your menstrual period to begin.
Patch
An adhesive patch is placed inconspicuously on the skin for one week at a time. Hormones are delivered transdermally (from the patch to the skin). The patch is replaced on the same day each week and then removed the fourth week to allow the menstrual cycle to begin. With typical use, the patch is around 91% effective.
Injection
The contraceptive injection is another hormonal birth control option. It involves one injection that lasts three months, making it another low-maintenance choice. An injection is needed every three months, usually given at a doctor’s office. This method of contraception is about 94% effective.
Barrier Methods
A diaphragm is a round piece of flexible rubber with a rigid rim. The diaphragm is placed in the vagina and against the cervix. The diaphragm prevents semen from entering the womb. Spermicide must be used with a diaphragm.
Implant
A long-acting type of birth control. With this form of birth control, a matchstick-sized implant is inserted in the upper arm. The implant slowly releases contraceptive hormones for up to three years. It can be removed at any time. The implant is one of the more low-maintenance birth control methods available. The Nexplanon implant is almost 100% effective.
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
The IUD is a small, t-shaped device placed into the uterus and lasts 3-12 years (depending on the brand). IUDs are 99% effective. Once the IUD has been inserted, women do not need to take any further steps to prevent pregnancy. The IUD can be removed at any time, and pregnancy may happen quickly after.
Vaginal Ring
A vaginal ring is placed in the vagina near the cervix and slow-releases contraceptive hormones for three weeks at a time. It is then removed for one week to allow the menstrual period to begin. Vaginal rings need to be replaced monthly and can be 91% effective.
Tubal Ligation
Tubal ligation is a form of permanent sterilization. It is usually recommended for women who have completed their families and no longer wish to have more children. It may also be recommended in rare cases where a potential pregnancy might significantly harm the life of a mother or impair her well-being. The procedure itself involves the fallopian tubes (the connection between the ovaries and uterus) being cut, tied, or blocked to prevent pregnancy permanently.
Ultimately, the best method of birth control for you is one that works well for you. It should be safe and comfortable to use. Additionally, if a short-acting birth control method is chosen, it is important that you are able to take it regularly and consistently. Birth control is only effective if used properly.
References
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/birth-control/in-depth/birth-control-options/art-20045571
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/how-effective-contraception/
