Figuring out which birth control is the best option can seem like a daunting task. Because this is such a subjective and individualized process, many women are either overwhelmed with their options, or aren’t sure how or where to start researching. While there are a wide variety of choices for birth control that aren’t listed below, hopefully this guide can help people better understand what to look for when analyzing their options.
Condoms
The typical male condoms are possibly the most well known and abundant form of birth control. Condoms act as a physical barrier between sperm and the vagina, and they are also effective against STDs. It is important to note, however, that while latex and plastic condoms protect against STDs, lambskin condoms will not, so be sure to check the labels when you buy them! Condoms are efficient because they do not require a prescription, unlike many of the other forms of birth control on this list. That being said, there are some disadvantages of condoms as well. Condoms require continuous use, you need to remember to use them every single time you have sexual intercourse if this is the only method of birth control that you will be using. It is also important to add that the efficacy rate of condoms is 98% with perfect use, meaning wearing the condom correctly and the entire time, and 85% effective with typical use.
Birth Control Pills
There are two main types of birth control pills: combination and progestin. Combination birth control pills contain estrogen and progestin. Although doctors recommend taking the combination pill at the same time every day in order to remember it, as long as you take it once every day, you will be protected against pregnancy. Unlike the combination pill, the progestin-only pill (or mini pill), contains only progestin and must be taken within the same three hours every day, otherwise you will be at risk for pregnancy. Some advantages of birth control pills are that they have been known to prevent or lessen acne and PMS. That being said, there are some negative aspects of birth control pills. With perfect use, birth control pills are 99% effective, and with typical use that number drops down to 91%. Extreme temperature, vomiting and diarrhea, and certain herbs and antibiotics can all affect the efficacy of birth control pills. These outside factors, as well as the importance of remembering to continuously take it every day at around the same time can deter many people from pills.
Implant
The birth control implant, or Nexplanon, is a small stick that is placed under the skin on your arm that continuously releases hormones in order to prevent pregnancy. The implant releases the hormone progestin, which simultaneously thickens the mucus in the cervix to stop sperm from being able to reach the egg, and can also stop ovulation completely. The implant is effective for up to 5 years after it has been put in and, like the pills and IUDs, once it is removed, it has no effect on future fertility. Some disadvantages of the implant include common side-effects such as irregular bleeding, as well as it’s inability to prevent STDs. That being said, the birth control implant is extremely effective (over 99%!) since there is no responsibility on the individual after it is placed in your arm. Many people refer to this as get-it-and-forget-it birth control since there is no option for user error.
IUD
IUDs, or Intrauterine Devices, are small objects placed in the uterus in order to prevent pregnancy. The two main types of IUDs are hormonal and non-hormonal. The hormonal IUD, much like the implant, releases progestin into the body in order to stop ovulation as well as thicken cervical mucus. Different brands of hormonal IUDs will last for different periods of time, with the longest being up to 7 years. The non-hormonal IUD uses copper to prevent pregnancy. Copper affects the movement of sperm cells and blocks them off from the egg. Non hormonal IUDs will prevent pregnancy for up to 12 years. Both hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs are over 99% effective, and are extremely convenient methods of birth control.
Hopefully this list has shed a little light on the complicated subject of birth control. For more in-depth descriptions of birth control options, check out planned parenthood’s website , and stay safe!