5 Most Effective Birth Control Options

Learn how the various techniques operate, how effective they are, how much they cost,
and some of the pros and cons of each option before deciding on the best birth
control method for you.

The effectiveness of birth control is determined by the type of birth control used and if it is
used correctly. Any contraceptive method must be used regularly and correctly in order to
be effective.

Short-acting hormonal contraception

Hormonal birth control entails modifying your body's natural estrogen and/or progestin
levels to reduce the likelihood of conception. Birth control pills that you daily, a patch that
you replace every week, a vaginal ring that you change every month, or a shot that your
doctor gives you every three months are all common options. All of these procedures
necessitate a prescription. If you're curious about how they differ, such as the effectiveness
of birth control pills versus patches, here's what you should know: All of the measures we
have mentioned are roughly 91-95 percent successful at preventing pregnancy in most
women.

Prolonged contraception

Long-term contraception can be a suitable option if you want effective, long-term birth
control that doesn't require a lot of upkeep. Two options are an implant implanted into
your arm or an intrauterine device (IUD) inserted into your uterus. These procedures are
100% effective in preventing pregnancy. Depending on the method you choose, they will
last 3–10 years.

Contraception with a one-time barrier

Barrier birth control methods include condoms, sponges, diaphragms, cervical caps, and
spermicide. They all act differently, but during sex, they all generate a sperm "barrier" to
prevent sperm from reaching an egg physically. Barrier contraceptive methods do not
require a prescription and can be purchased in a variety of places or online. Condoms are
also the only birth control option that protects against STIs.

Prolonged contraception

Tubal ligation (for women) and vasectomy (for men) are simple surgical procedures used
to prevent pregnancy. They are nearly 100% effective at preventing conception. They're an
excellent option to consider if you're certain you don't want to have children in the future.

Emergency contraception

If you have sex without taking birth control – or if your birth control fails – emergency
contraception can help you avoid becoming pregnant. If you require emergency birth
control, two types of tablets are available. Whatever technique you choose, you should use emergency contraception as quickly as possible for it to be effective.

One form of tablet commonly referred to as "Plan B," is available without a prescription
from most pharmacies and can prevent pregnancy for up to three days after sex. The
more effective pill commonly referred to as "Ella," requires a prescription but can prevent
pregnancy for up to five days after sex. Copper IUDs also necessitate a visit to the doctor,
although they are nearly 100 percent effective when inserted within five days of
intercourse.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.