What’s the Best Kind of Birth Control For You?

If you have sex, using birth control + a condom is the best way to prevent pregnancy. Bonus: condoms help protect you from STDs, too!

What’s the best way to prevent pregnancy?

The only 100% certain way to avoid pregnancy is to not have penis-in-vagina sex, or do any sexual stuff where sperm can get on a vulva or in a vagina (this is called abstinence).

But if you’re going to have vaginal sex, the best way to prevent pregnancy is to use a very effective birth control method (like the IUD or implant) plus a condom.

Some types of birth control work better than others. The kinds of birth control that work the best to prevent pregnancy are the implant and IUDs — they’re also the most convenient to use, and the most foolproof.

Other birth control methods, like the pill, ring, patch, and shot, are also really good at preventing pregnancy if you use them perfectly. But people aren’t perfect, and these methods are easier to mess up than implants and IUDs.

It’s super important to make sure you use your birth control the right way. This means you can’t forget to take your pill, change your ring, or get your shot on time — or you’ll be at risk for pregnancy. So the best method of birth control for you is the one you’ll always use correctly. Take our birth control quiz to find out which methods might be best for you.

No matter what method you choose, you can get extra pregnancy prevention power by using birth control and a condom together.

Condoms + Birth Control = Extra Protection

Condoms are your safer sex superhero: they’re the only way to get protection from pregnancy and STDs during vaginal sex.

No birth control method is perfect. So using condoms with another type of birth control (like the implant, IUD, or pill) gives you backup protection in case either method fails. And condoms seriously lower your chances of getting all kinds of sexually transmitted infections, like HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and herpes.

Another great thing about condoms is that you can get them almost anywhere, like drugstores, grocery stores, convenience stores, and gas stations. Condoms don’t cost a lot of money, and sometimes they’re even free at community clinics, school health centers, or Planned Parenthood health centers.

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Which method of contraception suits me?

There are a range of different contraceptive options currently available in the UK. The type that works best for you will depend on your health and circumstances.

There are several issues to consider when deciding which method of contraception is right for you.

Once you have read this information, you can go to your GP or local contraceptive (or family planning) clinic to discuss your choices.

Remember, the only way to protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is to use a condom every time you have sex.

Other methods of contraception prevent pregnancy, but they do not protect against STIs.

Answer the questions on this page to help you decide which method is most suitable for you.

Contraception choices tool

The Contraception choices tool can help you find out which methods of contraception:

• may be best for you
• are most effective at preventing pregnancy

The Contraception tool infographic shows you how many women may get pregnant in a year using each method.

Sexual health charities Brook and FPA also have a contraception tool:

How effective are the different methods?

The list below shows how effective each of the 15 different methods are, and how often you need to use them or think about them (frequency of use).

The effectiveness of each method is worked out by calculating how many women get pregnant if 100 women use the method for a year.

For example, if a particular contraceptive method is 99% effective, 1 woman out of every 100 who uses it will get pregnant in a year.

Some methods listed below, such as the pill, include the phrase “if used correctly”.

This is because people who use these methods have to use them every time they have sex, or remember to take or apply them every day, week or month.

If the method is not used correctly, it will not be as effective.

Contraceptives that are more than 99% effective:

Contraceptives that are more than 99% effective if always used correctly, but generally less than 95% effective with typical use:

Contraceptives that are 99% effective if used according to teaching instructions:

Contraceptives that are 98% effective if used correctly:

Contraceptives that are 95% effective if used correctly:

Contraceptives that are 92 to 96% effective if used correctly:

Can you make contraception part of your daily routine?

If you’re a well-organised person with a reasonably regular routine, you have a wide choice of contraception.

This is because you’re less likely to forget about your contraception by forgetting to take a pill or reapply a patch, for example.

You may want to use a method that you only need to use when you have sex, such as the male or female condom, or you may prefer a method that you need to take every day, such as the pill.

Or you may want to consider methods like the patch, injection or implant, which you do not need to use every day or each time you have sex.

The list below shows how often you need to use, replace or take each contraceptive method.

Once you have looked at the list, ask your GP or a doctor or nurse at your local clinic for more details.

Methods used each time you have sex:

Methods taken on a daily basis:

Methods replaced every week:

Methods replaced every month:

Methods renewed every 2 to 3 months:

Methods renewed up to every 3 years:

Methods renewed up to every 5 to 10 years:

Would you prefer contraception you do not have to remember every day?

Not all contraceptives have to be taken every day or each time you have sex.

You do not have to think about some contraceptives for months or years.

These methods need to be inserted by a health professional into your uterus (IUD or IUS) or arm (the implant):

The contraceptive injection can be given 1 of 2 ways: either by an intramuscular injection into the buttock, or as a subcutaneous injection into the thigh or abdomen.

This is given every 8 weeks or every 12 weeks, depending on the type. 

The subcutaneous injection can be given by a health professional, or you can be shown how to inject it yourself.

Other contraceptives that need to be changed or replaced every month or week are:

Other contraceptives used or inserted just before sex are:

Ask your GP or a doctor or nurse at your local contraceptive clinic for more details.

Are you comfortable inserting contraceptives into your vagina?

If you’re a woman, are you comfortable inserting contraceptives into your own vagina?

If so, you could consider using:

If you’d like a method that’s longer term and you do not mind a health professional putting a contraceptive into your uterus through your vagina, you could consider using:

Do you mind if your periods change?

Some contraceptives can affect your periods. Some may make your periods lighter or more infrequent. Others may make your periods heavier or more irregular.

Ask your GP or a doctor or nurse at your local clinic for more details.

Contraceptives that can make your periods lighter include:

Do you smoke?

Smokers can use most types of contraception. But if you’re a smoker and over 35 years old, some contraceptives (such as the combined pill, patch or the vaginal ring) might not be suitable for you.

Ask your GP or a doctor or nurse at your local clinic for more details.

If you’re over 35 and smoke, you can consider the following types of contraceptive:

Find out how to stop smoking

Are you overweight?

Your weight will not affect most types of contraception, and most contraception will not make you put on weight.

But the contraceptive injection has been linked to a small amount of weight gain if used for 2 years or more.

Find out how to lose weight

What if you cannot use hormonal contraceptives?

Some contraceptives work by using hormones that are similar to the hormones women produce naturally. These hormones are oestrogen and progestogen.

Contraceptives that contain these hormones aren’t suitable for some women, such as those who have medical conditions like breast cancer.

Not all contraceptive methods use hormones. Some work in other ways, including:

What if you cannot use contraceptives that contain oestrogen?

Contraceptives that contain oestrogen are not suitable for women who:

• are over 35 and who smoke
• are very overweight 
• take certain medicines 
• have certain medical conditions, such as problems with blood circulation or migraines with aura

If you cannot use contraceptives that contain oestrogen, there are plenty of other options, including:

Are you taking medicines for other conditions?

Some contraceptives can be affected if you’re taking other medicines, but there are plenty of options.

Ask your GP, nurse or your local clinic for more details.

Contraceptives that are not affected by other medicines are:

Do you want to get pregnant in the near future?

All methods of contraception can be stopped if you want to have a baby.  You can get pregnant as soon as you stop using contraception.

A woman’s fertility usually returns to normal within the first month after stopping the combined pill, vaginal ring or contraceptive patch. 

If you want your fertility to return to normal quickly after you stop using contraception, consider these methods:

Your fertility may take longer to return to normal after stopping the contraceptive injection.

Most women’s fertility will return in a few months, but it can take up to a year for fertility to return to normal. 

Find out about getting pregnant

Page last reviewed: 3 January 2019

Next review due: 3 January 2022

Types, Effectiveness, and How It Works

What’s the Best Birth Control?

The best birth control is the one that most effectively prevents pregnancy and fits with your lifestyle. Generally, a male condom plus another form of birth control is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy.

What’s “best” among birth control methods differs from person to person. What’s right for you may not be right for everyone. And your needs may change over time.

Here’s what to think about when choosing a kind of birth control:

• How fail-proof do you need your protection plan to be?
• How much does the cost matter?
• How important is your privacy?
• Do you have a regular partner whose needs you care about?
• Do you need to protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
• How much effort do you want to make to prevent a pregnancy?
• If you’re a woman, does it matter if your period is affected?
• Will you someday want to have a child?

How Birth Control Works

You can compare facts about birth control methods in the sections below, including the basic ways they work. The types of methods are:

• Behavior. This is something you and your partner decide to do to avoid pregnancy. For example, you could bar sexual intercourse altogether (abstinence), or avoid it at points in a woman’s cycle when she is likely to get pregnant (fertility awareness), or remove the penis from the vagina before ejaculation (withdrawal).
• Barrier. This type goes on or in your body before you have sex to block sperm from getting to the egg.
• Hormonal. This type changes a woman’s body chemistry. (Depending on the hormones, it stops ovaries from releasing eggs, thickens the mucus around your cervix to keep sperm from reaching the egg, or thins the lining of the uterus.)
• Medical. This is a procedure that changes your body.

Birth Control Effectiveness

When doctors talk about how effective a birth control method is, there are different rates when it’s used “ideally” (exactly the way it was designed) or “typically” (by the average person in real life). “Typical” use takes into account that people can’t or don’t always use birth control correctly or consistently.

Keep in mind that out of every 100 women who don’t use any birth control, about 85 will get pregnant within a year.

Birth Control Methods

The various kinds of birth control, from most effective to least effective, are:

Abstinence

Type: Behavior

How it works: Some people consider abstinence to mean zero sexual contact (complete abstinence). Others say it’s when the penis does not have contact with the vagina (contraceptive abstinence).

Number of pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = 0
• Typical use = unknown

How long it lasts: As long as you abstain

STD protection? Yes, when you practice complete abstinence; no, if you practice only contraceptive abstinence.

Need to see a doctor? No

Pros: Highly effective when used correctly. No side effects. No cost.

Cons: Giving up sex for a long time may be very hard. You might also have trouble saying “no” or “stop” while you’re enjoying other sex play.

Sterilization surgery for women

Type: Medical

How it works: A doctor blocks, ties, clamps, seals, or cuts the two fallopian tubes that connect a woman’s ovaries and uterus. It’s also known as a tubal ligation or “getting your tubes tied.”

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = less than 1
• Typical use = less than 1

How long it lasts: Permanent

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: It’s a one-time procedure.

Cons: You’ll have to go to the hospital, and you’ll need general anesthesia for the surgery. Risks of pain, bleeding, infection, and ectopic pregnancy afterward. Not meant to be reversed.

Sterilization surgery for men

Type: Medical

How it works: The tubes from the testes to other glands are blocked so the semen no longer has sperm.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = less than 1
• Typical use = less than 1

How long it lasts: Ongoing

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: One-time procedure. Needs only local anesthesia.

Cons: Risks of pain, bleeding, and infection. Waiting period before it’s effective. Not meant to be reversed.

Birth control implant

Type: Hormonal

How it works: Using a needle, a doctor puts a matchstick-sized rod with progestin under the skin on your arm.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = less than 1
• Typical use = less than 1

How long it lasts: Up to 3 years

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: Long-term protection against pregnancy. Can be reversed easily if you want to get pregnant.

Cons: May cause weight gain and changes in your bleeding pattern. Possible breast and stomach pain.

Progestin IUD (Kyleena, Liletta, Mirena, Skyla)

Type: Hormonal

How it works: A small T-shaped device that has progestin goes into your uterus.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = less than 1
• Typical use = less than 1

How long it lasts: Up to 3-5 years

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: There’s nothing to do right before having sex. Once it’s removed, you can get pregnant. Can be used while breastfeeding. May cause lighter periods or no periods.

Cons: May cause irregular periods, pain, or ovarian cysts. In some unusual cases, can make pelvic infections worse. Rarely, the IUD may get stuck in or on your uterus or cause a serious infection.

Copper IUD

Type: Medical

How it works: A small T-shaped device with copper goes into your uterus. It keeps sperm from reaching or fertilizing the egg. It may keep the egg from attaching to the lining of your uterus.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = less than 1
• Typical use = less than 1

How long it lasts: Up to 10 years

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: There’s nothing to do right before having sex. Once removed, it’s possible to conceive. Can be used while breastfeeding.

Cons: May cause cramps or bleeding. In some unusual cases, can make pelvic infections worse. Rarely, the IUD could get stuck in or on your uterus or cause a serious infection.

Birth control shot (Depo-Provera)

Type: Hormonal

How it works: Your doctor gives you a shot of progestin.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = less than 1
• Typical use = 6

How long it lasts: 3 months

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: There’s nothing to do right before having sex. Birth control protection starts with the first shot. Reversible. Can use while breastfeeding.

Cons: Must get repeat injections on time. You may lose bone density when you get shots for more than 2 years in a row. May cause bleeding between periods, headaches, weight gain, nervousness, or belly discomfort. You may not ovulate for up to a year after a shot.

Vaginal ring (NuvaRing)

Type: Hormonal

How it works: You put a flexible plastic ring into your vagina. It releases progestin and estrogen.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = less than 1
• Typical use = 9

How long it lasts: 1 month for each ring

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: Easy to use. Nothing to do right before having sex.

Cons: Must keep the ring in place, and change it on schedule. May cause vaginal discharge and mild discomfort. Higher risks of heart attack and stroke. Can come out of place.

Vaginal Gel (Phexxi)

Type: Non-Hormonal

How it works: You insert the gel into your vagina via applicator immediately before or up to one hour before sex.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = 10
• Typical use = 16

How long it lasts: One act of intercourse

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? yes

Hormones? No

Pros: Easy to insert. Lubricates vagina.

Cons: Must be put inside the vagina immediately before or up to one hour  sex. If you have sex more than once within the hour, you must use another applicator. May cause irritation, allergic reactions, and infections.

Birth control patch

Type: Hormonal

How it works: You stick a square patch that’s about 2 inches across on your abdomen, buttocks, arm, or back. Your skin absorbs estrogen and progestin from it. Use it for 3 weeks, and then skip a week so you have a period.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = less than 1
• Typical use = 9

How long it lasts: 1 week per patch

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: Easy to use. Nothing to do right before sex.

Cons: Must be changed on time. May cause a skin reaction. Raises risks of blood clots and strokes.

Extended- or continuous-use birth control pill

Type: Hormonal

How it works: You take a pill with progestin and estrogen every day.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = less than 1
• Typical use = 9

How long it lasts: 3 months or 1 year, depending on your prescription

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: Nothing to do right before sex. Fewer or no periods. Makes menstrual cramps and acne less severe.

Cons: Must take a pill at the same time every day. May cause more spotting between periods than with regular birth control pills. Fewer or no periods makes it harder to know if you’re pregnant. May cause changes in your period, nausea, breast tenderness, headache, high blood pressure risks, and higher chances of blood clots, heart attacks, and stroke.

Birth control pill

Type: Hormonal

How it works: You take a pill with progestin and estrogen every day.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = less than 1
• Typical use = 9

How long it lasts: 1 month per package

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: Nothing to do right before sex. Makes periods more regular and lighter. Makes menstrual cramps and acne less severe.

Cons: Must take a pill at the same time every day. May cause changes in your period, nausea, breast tenderness, or headache. You may have high blood pressure. Brings higher risks of blood clots, heart attacks, and stroke.

Birth control “mini-pill”

Type: Hormonal

How it works: You take a pill with progestin every day.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = less than 1
• Typical use = 9

How long it lasts: 1 month per package

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: Nothing to do right before sex. Can be used while breastfeeding. Makes periods lighter. Makes menstrual cramps less severe. May be used if you can’t take the regular birth control pill because of high blood pressure, blood clots, migraines, and smoking over age 35.

Cons: Must take a pill at the same time every day. Can cause irregular bleeding, headache, breast tenderness, nausea, and dizziness.

Diaphragm with spermicide

Type: Barrier

How it works: You load a dome-shaped disk with sperm-killing jelly (nonoxynol-9) and put it into your vagina to cover your cervix.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = 6
• Typical use = 12

How long it lasts: Up to 2 hours

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: Works immediately. Neither you nor your partner can feel it. Can be used while breastfeeding. No hormonal changes. Can be inserted hours before having sex. Can be left inside the vagina for up to 24 hours, as long as you add spermicide each time you have sex and then every 2 hours afterward.

Cons: Must be fitted to your size and refitted often. Can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or infections. Spermicides with nonoxynol-9 can increase risks of HIV. Must leave diaphragm in for at least 6 hours after sex. More than 24 hours of use raises risks of toxic shock syndrome.

Male condom

Type: Barrier

How it works: You put a thin sheath over your erect penis right before sex and take it off before the penis gets soft.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = 2
• Typical use = 18

How long it lasts: One act of intercourse

STD protection? Yes

Need to see a doctor? No

Pros: Widely available, easy to carry, and disposable. Latex condoms are the best protection against STDs other than abstinence.

Cons: Must be used every time you have sex. Makes sex less spontaneous, since you need to put the condom on the right way. May cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Female condom

Type: Barrier

How it works: You put a thin pouch into your vagina before sex.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = 5
• Typical use = 21

How long it lasts: One act of intercourse

STD protection? Yes

Need to see a doctor? No

Pros: Can be inserted before sex. Less decrease in sensation for men than with a male condom. Stronger than latex.

Cons: Can slip while using. May be hard to insert or remove. Not easy to find. Costs more than male condoms.

Withdrawal

Type: Behavior

How it works: Men take their penis out of the vagina before they ejaculate.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = 4
• Typical use = 22

How long it lasts: One act of intercourse

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? No

Pros: Free. Can be used with other forms of birth control.

Cons: The man may not pull out in time. Pre-ejaculate can still contain sperm.

Fertility awareness

Type: Behavior

How it works: Women track their fertility to figure out which days to abstain from sex or use a barrier method.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = up to 5
• Typical use = 24

How long it lasts: As long as it’s practiced

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? No

Pros: May be OK for some religious practices. Inexpensive. Helps you understand your body better.

Cons: Requires careful record-keeping. You can’t be sexually spontaneous during fertile periods. Not useful if your menstrual cycle lasts fewer than 26 or more than 32 days.

Sponge with spermicide

Type: Barrier

How it works: You put a disk with sperm-killing jelly (nonoxynol-9) into the vagina before having sex.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = 9-12 (Pregnancy is more likely if you’ve already had a baby.)
• Typical use = 20-24

How long it lasts: Up to 24 hours

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? No

Pros: Works right away. Can have sex more than once while inserted, with no need to add more spermicide.

Cons: May not fit well for women who’ve had a baby. Can cause irritation or allergic reactions or be difficult to remove from vagina. Spermicides with nonoxynol-9 can increase risks of HIV. Must leave sponge in for at least 6 hours after sex. More than 24 to 30 hours of use raises risk of toxic shock syndrome.

Cervical cap with spermicide

Type: Barrier

How it works: You put a soft cup loaded with sperm-killing jelly (nonoxynol-9) inside your vagina to fit snugly over your cervix.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = 14
• Typical use = 17-23

How long it lasts: Up to 42 hours

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Hormones? No

Pros: Smaller and uses less spermicide than a diaphragm. Reusable. Can be put in up to 6 hours before sex. Can have sex more than once while it’s in, with no need to add more spermicide.

Cons: May not fit well for women who’ve had a baby. May need to be resized. May cause irritation, allergic reactions, or unusual Pap smears. Spermicides with nonoxynol-9 can increase risks of HIV. Must be left in for at least 6 hours after sex. More than 48 hours of use raises risks of toxic shock syndrome.

Spermicide

Type: Barrier

How it works: Women put a foam, cream, jelly, film, or tablet containing sperm-killing nonoxynol-9 into their vagina.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = 18
• Typical use = 28

How long it lasts: One act of intercourse

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? No

Hormones? No

Pros: Easy to insert. Lubricates vagina.

Cons: Must be put in 5 to 90 minutes before sex and left inside for at least 6 to 8 hours after. May cause irritation, allergic reactions, and infections. Can increase risks of HIV.

Vaginal Gel (Phexxi)

Type: Non-Hormonal

How it works: You insert the gel into your vagina via applicator immediately before or up to 1 hour before sex.

Pregnancies per 100 women:

• Ideal use = 10
• Typical use = 16

How long it lasts: One act of intercourse

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? yes

Hormones? No

Pros: Easy to insert. Lubricates vagina.

Cons: Must be put inside the vagina 15-60 minutes before sex. If you have sex more than once within the hour, you must use another applicator. May cause irritation, allergic reactions, and infections.

Morning-after pill (Next Choice, Plan B, Plan B One-Step)

Type: Emergency hormonal

How it works: Stops an egg from leaving the ovary. May also prevent an egg from getting fertilized or attaching to the uterus lining.

Effectiveness: Prevents pregnancy in 7 out of 8 women who would have otherwise gotten pregnant.

When it works: Up to 3 days after having unprotected sex or birth control failure

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? No, if you’re 18 or older; maybe, if you’re not

Pros: You can buy Plan B One-Step without a prescription. Next Choice and Plan B are available over-the-counter if you’re 17 or older.

Cons: Not meant for regular birth control. If you’re under 17, you may need a prescription. May cause nausea, vomiting, belly pain, fatigue, and headache.

Ella (ulipristal acetate)

Type: Emergency hormonal

How it works: Blocks a hormone to stop or delay the ovaries from releasing an egg. May also prevent the egg from attaching to the uterus lining.

Effectiveness: Prevents pregnancy in 6 or 7 out of every 10 women who would have otherwise gotten pregnant.

When it works: Within 5 days of having unprotected sex or birth control failure

STD protection? No

Need to see a doctor? Yes

Pros: Can be taken later than other forms of emergency contraception. May be more effective than other emergency contraception if you’re overweight.

Cons: Not meant for regular birth control. Requires a prescription. May cause headache, nausea, belly pain, menstrual cramps, fatigue, or dizziness. Use only birth control methods without hormones for the next 5 days.

6 Most Effective Methods of Birth Control, Ranked

3. LARCs

A more effective option than the shot is a Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive, or, a LARC. LARCs include IUDs and hormonal implants, both of which are surgically implanted into the body. LARCs are 99% effective, and some of them last for up to ten years. While they are a low-maintenance option, they are more expensive than a pill, patch, or vaginal ring, and their insertion requires a doctor’s visit.

2. Sterilization

Coming in second place on the list is sterilization, surgical procedures that permanently disrupt the Fallopian tubes (“getting your tubes tied”),  preventing the egg and sperm from meeting. Without insurance coverage, these surgeries may cost up to $6,000 and should not be thought of as reversible. Like abstinence, sterilization is a life choice. Unlike abstinence, sterilization is essentially permanent. While sterilization is 99% effective, it is not a decision one should make lightly.

1. Abstinence

This might seem obvious, but the most effective way to prevent pregnancy is to abstain from sex. That’s right, abstinence is still the best form of birth control—that is, if it’s a lifestyle you choose to maintain.

If you’re interested in trying the pill, patch or ring—great news: you can now skip the hassle of the doctor’s office visit and get your birth control prescribed online. With SimpleHealth, you’ll get your prescription online and your refills delivered to your door—for free—right when you need them. Check out our easy, doctor-designed consultation and make your birth control process easier (and more affordable) than it’s ever been.

Try it now and we’ll waive your consultation fee (regularly $20)! If you have insurance, you can likely get your birth control—including regular shipping to your door—with a $0 copay. No insurance? No problem. Get birth control delivered for just $15/month.

Birth Control Methods: How Well Do They Work? (for Teens)

Some Methods Work Better Than Others

Some birth control methods work better than others. The chart on the following page compares how well different birth control methods work.

The most effective way to prevent pregnancy is 

abstinence. However, within the first year of committing to abstinence, many couples become pregnant because they have sex anyway but don’t use protection. So it’s a good idea even for people who don’t plan to have sex to be informed about birth control.

Couples who do have sex need to use birth control properly and every time to prevent pregnancy. For example, the birth control pill can be effective in preventing pregnancy. But if a girl forgets to take her pills, this isn’t an effective method for her. Condoms can be an effective form of birth control, too. But if a guy forgets to use a condom or doesn’t use it correctly, it’s not an effective way for him to prevent pregnancy.

For every 100 couples using each type of birth control, the chart shows how many of these couples will get pregnant within a year. The information shown is for all couples, not just teenage couples. Some birth control methods may be less effective for teen users. For example, teenage girls who use fertility awareness (also called the rhythm method) may have an even greater chance of getting pregnant than adult women because their bodies have not yet settled into a regular menstrual cycle.

We list the effectiveness of different birth control methods based on their typical use rates. Typical use refers to how the average person uses that method of birth control (compared with “perfect” use, which means no mistakes are made in using that method).

A birth control method that is rated:

• completely effective means that no couples will become pregnant while using that method
• very effective means that between 1 and 2 out of 100 couples become pregnant while using that method
• effective means that 2 to 12 out of 100 couples become pregnant while using that method
• moderately effective means that 13 to 20 out of 100 couples become pregnant while using that method
• less effective means that 21 to 40 out of 100 couples become pregnant while using that method
• not effective means that more than 40 out of 100 couples become pregnant while using that method

In addition to preventing pregnancy, abstinence and condoms provide some protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). However, most other birth control methods do not provide much protection against STDs, so condoms should also be used.

Page Two

Birth Control Methods: Comparison Chart

Things to consider when choosing contraception – Contraception

There are 15 different methods of contraception currently available in the UK. The type that works best for you will depend on your health and circumstances.

There are several issues to consider when deciding which method of contraception is right for you.

Once you’ve read this information, you can go to your GP or local contraceptive (or family planning) clinic to discuss your choices.

Remember, the only way to protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is to use a condom every time you have sex. Other methods of contraception prevent pregnancy, but they don’t protect against STIs.

The following questions can help you decide which method is most suitable for you:

How effective are the different methods? 

Can you make contraception part of your daily routine?

Would you prefer contraception that you don’t have to remember every day? 

Are you comfortable inserting contraceptives into your vagina? 

Do you mind if your periods change? 

Do you smoke? 

Are you overweight? 

What if you can’t use hormonal contraceptives? 

What if you can’t use contraceptives that contain oestrogen? 

Are you taking medicines for other conditions? 

Do you want to get pregnant in the near future?

The ‘My contraception’ tool

Sexual health charities Brook and FPA have developed an interactive tool that can help you find out which methods of contraception may be best for you.

The tool asks questions about your health, lifestyle and contraceptive preferences. All your answers are completely confidential and can’t be traced back to you.

The tool is available on both charities’ websites: 

How effective are the different methods?

The list below shows how effective each of the 15 different methods are, and how often you need to use them or think about them (frequency of use).

The effectiveness of each method is worked out by calculating how many women get pregnant if 100 women use the method for a year. For example, if a particular contraceptive method is 99% effective, one woman out of every 100 who uses it will get pregnant in a year.

Some methods listed below, such as the pill, include the phrase “if used correctly”. This is because people who use these methods have to use them every time they have sex, or remember to take or apply them every day, week or month. If the method isn’t used correctly, it won’t be as effective.

Contraceptives that are more than 99% effective if used correctly:

Contraceptives that are more than 99% effective if always used correctly, but generally less than 95% effective with typical use:

Contraceptives that are 99% effective if used according to teaching instructions:

Contraceptives that are 98% effective if used correctly:

Contraceptives that are 95% effective if used correctly:

Contraceptives that are 92-96% effective if used correctly:

• diaphragm with spermicide (every time you have sex)
• cap with spermicide (every time you have sex)

Can you make contraception part of your daily routine?

If you’re a well-organised person with a reasonably regular routine, you have a wide choice of contraception. This is because you’re less likely to forget about your contraception – for example, forgetting to take a pill or reapplying a patch.

You may want to use a method that you only need to use when you have sex, such as the male or female condom, or you may prefer a method that you need to take every day, such as the pill.

Or you may want to consider methods such as the patch, injection or implant, which you don’t need to use every day or each time you have sex.

The list below shows how often you need to use, replace or take each contraceptive method. Once you’ve looked at the list, ask your GP, or a doctor or nurse at your local clinic for more details.

Methods that are used each time you have sex:

Methods that are taken every day:

Methods that are replaced every week:

Methods that are replaced every month:

Methods that are renewed every two to three months:

Methods that are renewed up to every three years:

Methods that are renewed up to every five to 10 years:

Would you prefer contraception that you don’t have to remember every day?

Not all contraceptives have to be taken every day or each time you have sex.

You don’t have to think about some contraceptives for months or years. These methods need to be inserted by a health professional into your uterus (IUD or IUS) or arm (the implant):

The contraceptive injection can be given one of two ways: either by an intramuscular injection into the buttock, or as a subcutaneous injection into the thigh or abdomen. This is given every eight weeks or every 12 weeks, depending on the type. 

The subcutaneous injection can be given by a health professional, or you can be shown how to inject it yourself.

Other contraceptives that need to be changed or replaced every month or week are:

Other contraceptives used or inserted just before sex are:

Ask your GP or a doctor or nurse at your local contraceptive clinic for more details.

Are you comfortable inserting contraceptives into your vagina?

If you’re a woman, are you comfortable inserting contraceptives into your own vagina? If so, you could consider using:

If you’d like a method that’s longer-term and you don’t mind a health professional putting a contraceptive into your uterus through your vagina, you could consider using:

Do you mind if your periods change?

Some contraceptives can affect your periods. Some may make your periods lighter or more infrequent. Others may make your periods heavier or more irregular. Ask your GP or a doctor or nurse at your local clinic for more details.

Contraceptives that can make your periods lighter include:

Do you smoke?

Smokers can use most types of contraception. But if you’re a smoker and over 35 years old, some contraceptives (such as the combined pill, patch or the vaginal ring) might not be suitable for you. Ask your GP or a doctor or nurse at your local clinic for more details.

If you’re over 35 and smoke, you can consider the following types of contraceptive:

Find out ways to stop smoking.

Are you overweight?

Your weight won’t affect most types of contraception, and most contraception won’t make you put on weight. However, the contraceptive injection has been linked to a small amount of weight gain if used for two years or more.

What if you can’t use hormonal contraceptives?

Some contraceptives work by using hormones that are similar to the hormones that women produce naturally. These hormones are oestrogen and progestogen.

Contraceptives that contain these hormones aren’t suitable for some women, such as those who have medical conditions, including breast cancer.

Not all contraceptive methods use hormones. Some work in other ways, including:

What if you can’t use contraceptives that contain oestrogen?

Contraceptives that contain oestrogen aren’t suitable for women who:

• are over 35 and who smoke
• are very overweight 
• take certain medicines 
• have certain medical conditions, such as problems with blood circulation, or migraines with aura

If you can’t use contraceptives that contain oestrogen, there are plenty of other options, including:

Are you taking medicines for other conditions?

Some contraceptives can be affected if you’re taking other medicines, but there are plenty of options. Ask your GP, nurse or your local clinic for more details.

Contraceptives that are not affected by other medicines are:

Do you want to get pregnant in the near future?

All methods of contraception can be stopped if you want to have a baby.  You can get pregnant as soon as you stop using contraception.

A woman’s fertility usually returns to normal within the first month after stopping the combined pill, vaginal ring or contraceptive patch. If you want your fertility to return to normal quickly after you stop using contraception, consider these methods:

Your fertility may take longer to return to normal after stopping the contraceptive injection. Most women’s fertility will return in a few months, but it can take up to a year for fertility to return to normal. 

Find out about getting pregnant.

Contraception Methods – Family Planning

Different types of contraception are available in Aotearoa New Zealand.

methods of contraception:

There are different methods of contraception, including:

What is long-acting reversible contraception?

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) lasts for a long time.

There are two types of LARC. 

Once you have a LARC put in, you don’t need to remember to take contraception every day or every month.

LARCs are the most effective types of contraception. They are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

What are hormonal contraceptives?

These contraceptives use hormones to prevent pregnancy.

Hormonal contraceptives include the Pill and the Depo Provera injection.

There are two types of pill:

You take one pill each day. If you take the pill correctly, it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

The Depo Provera injection is an injection you get every three months. If you get your injections on time, Depo Provera is more than 99% effective.  

What are barrier methods?

Barrier methods stop sperm from entering the vagina. The two barrier methods are:

Condoms protect against sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and from unintended pregnancy.

You can buy internal condoms from our website and from some pharmacies.

You can get a prescription for condoms from Family Planning or your doctor, or you can buy them from this website, pharmacies, supermarkets, and other shops.  

What is emergency contraception?

There are two options for emergency contraception: the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) or a copper IUD.

ECP can be taken up to three days after unprotected sex. If you are an average weight, the ECP is 98% effective. If you weigh more than 70kg, the ECP is less effective and a copper IUD is recommended. If you weigh more than 70kg and you choose to take ECP, you should ask if taking a double dose is the right option for you.

The copper IUD can be inserted up to five days after unprotected sex, and is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Emergency contraception can be used to prevent pregnancy if:

• you haven’t used protection
• your normal contraception fails e.g. condom splits
• you have missed more than one contraceptive pill
• you have been vomiting or had diarrhoea while on the pill
• you have missed your injection
• you have been forced to have sex without contraception.

It is not a good idea to use ECP as your regular method of contraception – it is less effective than if you were using a LARC or hormonal method. 

WHAT IS FERTILITY AWARENESS?

Fertility awareness is learning the signs of fertility in your menstrual cycle to help you plan or avoid a pregnancy. 

What is permanent contraception?

Permanent contraception, sometimes called sterilisation, prevents all future pregnancies. It is very difficult or impossible to reverse. Permanent contraception is either a vasectomy or a tubal ligation. 

90,000 What is the most effective method of contraception?

30 August 2018

Photo by Getty Images

Deciding on the right contraception is not easy to make, especially when there are plenty to choose from.

There are 15 methods of contraception approved by the UK National Health Service (NHS), but none are 100% reliable.

The Advertising Standards Administration banned Facebook ads for the Natural Cycles app after it found it was misleading.

The app is touted as “very accurate” and “clinically tested”, but this “exaggerates” its effectiveness.

While some contraceptives are 99% effective, others are less than 71% effective.

The effectiveness of contraception depends on the type you use, as well as on the correct use.

The NHS advises that contraceptive use guidelines be followed closely to ensure that they are as effective as possible.

Natural Family Planning

Photo Credit, Natural Cycles

Photo Signature,

Natural Cycles Facebook App Promises Accurate Results

Natural Family Planning is the process of monitoring various fertility signals throughout the menstrual cycle to predict if when can you get pregnant.

If done correctly, this method can be 99% effective, but “regular use” reduces the efficiency to about 76%.

There are no physical side effects from this method, but it is less effective if you do not follow clear instructions.

Condoms

There are two types of condoms: male condoms (worn over the penis) and female condoms (inserted into the vagina).

Condoms are the only type of contraception that can protect against genital infections and prevent pregnancy.

Photo by Getty Images

Male condoms are 98% effective and made from very thin latex, polyisoprene or polyurethane.

There are several factors that can reduce the effectiveness of male condoms, such as oily substances, creams, or damage.

Photo by Getty Images

Female condoms are 95% effective when placed inside the vagina.

Their effectiveness is reduced if they are damaged, or when the penis accidentally enters past the condom.

Tablets

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Combination tablets are more than 99% effective when used correctly, but are reduced to 91% in “typical use”.

The most common way is to drink one tablet daily for 21 days and stop using it during your period.

There are risks of getting pregnant if you do not take pills regularly, if you miss a dose, or if you have severe diarrhea or vomiting.

Certain antibiotics also reduce the effectiveness of the tablets.

Contraceptives containing only progesterone are more than 99% effective when used correctly. These tablets should be taken daily without interruption.

They are 92% efficient in typical use. However, they do not contain the hormone estrogen.

Contraceptive injection

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The injection is 99% effective and lasts from eight to 13 weeks depending on the drug.

In typical use, its efficiency is about 94%.

This method of contraception is not affected by other medications, but it can lead to irregular cycles in a woman.

After the injection stops, it may take up to a year before fertility returns to normal.

Contraceptive Patch

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The patch is 99% effective when used perfectly correctly and drops to 91% with typical use.

From it, hormones are released into the body that prevent pregnancy and act for one week.

The patch should be changed weekly for three weeks, then skip the week.

Vaginal Ring

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A vaginal ring is also 99% effective when used correctly, and is 91% effective in typical use.

It is placed inside the vagina, hormones enter the bloodstream and provide contraception for a month.

With this ring you can have sex without vomiting or diarrhea. But remember to change it monthly.

Contraceptive implant

Photo author, Getty Images

This method of contraception is 99% effective and works for three years.

This is a small plastic rod that is placed under the skin of the hand, where it releases hormones.

However, certain antibiotics and medications may affect its effectiveness.

Intrauterine system

This method of contraception is 99% effective. Moreover, he works from three to five years, depending on the type.

The device releases the hormone progestogen.

NHS describes it as one of the most effective forms of contraception available in the UK.At the same time, it is cautioned that after installing it, there is a small risk of infection.

Intrauterine device

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The intrauterine device (or “spiral”) is highly effective and can be used for five to ten years depending on the type.

It is similar to an intrauterine system, but the device secretes copper to prevent pregnancy.

There is a small risk that your body may reject the coil, and this method may not be suitable for those with previous pelvic infections.

Contraceptive Diaphragms and Caps

When used correctly with spermicides, diaphragms or caps are 92-96% effective.

Efficiency in typical applications is about 71-88%. Therefore, this method is not as effective as other types of contraception.

The diaphragm is made of silicone and inserted into the vagina before intercourse.

After sex, she must remain inside for at least six hours.

The most effective methods of contraception – a brief overview – Dobrobut clinic

Contraceptives – an overview of the most popular and effective ones

Prevention of unwanted conception is the main task of sexual partners, which must be solved by both.Unfortunately, it is often women who purchase contraception – they are provided in pharmacies, each has its own characteristics. The best option is to consult a doctor about choosing a specific method of contraception, but everyone needs to know the main features of contraceptives.

Barrier contraception

This is the most reliable way of protecting against unwanted pregnancy, and if we are talking about a male condom, then against almost all genital infections. Types of barrier contraception:

• male and female condoms;
• uterine cap;
• vaginal diaphragm.

The male condom is familiar to everyone, but few have ever heard of the female condom. It is a polyurethane bag that is inserted into the vagina and held there with special rings. The effectiveness of this method is high – it prevents unwanted pregnancies in 98% of cases. In addition, both types of condoms are reliable contraception for men and women, which protects against the penetration of a genital infection into the body. The only thing worth worrying about is a low-quality product that breaks.

The cap and diaphragm do not protect against infection, but they do prevent unwanted pregnancy. Their use is an option for safe contraception after childbirth and during breastfeeding. The problem with caps and diaphragms is that they are placed directly on the cervix, which not every woman can do. There is confirmed evidence of a strong allergic reaction to latex, from which female barrier contraceptives are made.

Oral contraception

These are hormonal pills that must be taken regularly and at the same time. Skipping one or two receptions is fraught with instant conception. Oral contraceptive drugs have some disadvantages:

• the selection of funds is carried out exclusively by the doctor, taking into account all the nuances;
• a large list of diseases-contraindications;
• inconvenient appointment schedule.

In addition, oral contraceptives can lead to disruptions in the endocrine and cardiovascular systems.The selection of hormonal contraception for women should be performed by a gynecologist.

Coils

Quite popular contraceptive, which is installed in the cervix and performs its functions for 3-5 years. Its second name is vaginal spiral. It is installed only for women who have given birth and if there are no pathological changes in the cervix and directly in the hollow organ.

There are also problems with such contraception:

• the already installed spiral can be rejected by the body, then the inflammatory process begins, accompanied by the formation of pus at the points of contact of the spiral with the tissues;
• menses may become longer and heavier;
• spiral in some cases simply falls out.

In addition, the inserted intrauterine device does not guarantee protection against unwanted pregnancy. Medicine knows cases when conception occurred in the presence of such a contraceptive.

Postcoital contraception

Emergency contraception after intercourse can only be used if it was not possible to take care of purchasing a condom. Postinor is the most famous drug in this category.A woman needs to take one tablet immediately after intercourse.

Postcoital contraception should be perceived as first aid, used no more than twice a month. Otherwise, the woman may develop life-threatening bleeding.

Calendar method

This is a dubious method of preventing unwanted pregnancies, but still popular. Its essence lies in determining the “dangerous” days when ovulation occurs.The likelihood of conception these days is incredibly high.

The problem lies not only in the unstable menstrual cycle, but also in the fact that ovulation can vary and occur a day later or earlier. In addition, the calendar method of contraception does not protect against genital infections.

What else is known about contraception

The best way to choose a method of contraception is to visit a gynecologist (for a woman) or an andrologist (for a man). You should not take the word for a miraculous “interrupted act” or douching with Coca-Cola – it is unreliable and absurd.

If it is not possible to seek advice from specialists, then you can safely use a condom – this is the best method of contraception during pregnancy, which is suitable for absolutely everyone and has a high level of reliability.

Full information on methods of contraception can be obtained from experienced doctors, and you can make an appointment with them on the pages of the Dobrobut.com website. Specialists will not only conduct an examination, but also give recommendations on modern methods of male contraception.

Related services:

Gynecological Check-up
Colposcopy

13 effective methods of contraception

3Vasectomy

Type of male sterilization. During the operation, a part of the vas deferens is bandaged or removed from a man so that sperm do not enter the ejaculate.

FOR Relatively simple operation; local anesthesia; libido, erection, ejaculation, sex drive, orgasm do not change.

AGAINST It is necessary to carefully consider your decision, since the reconstructive operation is much more complicated, expensive and success is not guaranteed. Does not protect against genital infections.

PEARL INDEX 0.4 pregnancies per 100 women.

4 Intrauterine device

The spiral is a fairly common method of contraception for women 25-30 years old. This is a small device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent conception. Today there are about 50 types of spirals: round, spiral, T-shaped, copper or silver, hormonal, etc.e. The IUD prevents the implantation of an egg into the wall of the uterus, has a detrimental effect on sperm (copper-containing spirals), affects their ability to pass through the cervix (hormonal). Average term of use is 2-5 years.

FOR High protection against unwanted pregnancy. Using the IUD, you can forget about other methods of protection for several years. The coil does not affect lactation, can be easily removed by a doctor and is inexpensive.

VS In some women, heavy menstruation can be provoked.Long-term presence of a foreign body in the body reduces immunity, and can also cause inflammatory processes. The spiral is not recommended for nulliparous girls.

PEARL INDEX 1 pregnancy per 100 women.

Hormonal contraception

5Hormonal implants and capsules

This type of contraception is a small plastic stick (the size of a match) or a thin capsule filled with hormones and injected subcutaneously, usually on the inner side of the left forearm.Once inserted, the implants regularly release a hormone that prevents ovulation and also changes the lining of the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to pass through. In 2018, a new progressive product is expected on the American market – a hormonal contraceptive chip, which will be implanted under the patient’s skin and controlled using a smartphone and a special application.

FOR No need for frequent implant replacement. The effect lasts approximately 5 years. The operation is quite simple and painless.

AGAINST Side effects: nausea, headaches and possible allergic reactions. Implants are not widely represented on the Russian market, hence the high cost. In addition, gynecologists do not recommend installing implants for girls who have not yet given birth.

PEARL INDEX 0.3 pregnancies per year per 100 women.

Other methods of contraception – Postinor

There are different methods of contraception with their own characteristics and characteristics.Gynecologists say that every woman has her own contraceptive.

• Birth control pills.
• Condom.
• Interrupted intercourse.
• Calendar method.
• Intrauterine device.
• Spermicides.
• Method of lactational amenorrhea.
• Sterilization.

CONTRACEPTIVE TABLETS OR COMBINED ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES.

The pill is the safest form of contraception.When used correctly, this method is 100% effective. Modern drugs contain a dose of hormones 100 times less than the first hormonal drugs that appeared in the middle of the last century and which our mothers remember well. These “ancient” drugs have given rise to the terrible myth “HORMONES!”
Hormones are often associated with something very harmful, hormonal disruptions, inability to get pregnant, sick children, mustache and weight gain. In fact, for a long time already everything is completely different! In terms of the reliability / safety ratio, COCs (combined oral contraceptives) surpass even such a popular condom.
Modern contraceptives contain female sex hormones that are as close as possible to natural effects in very low doses. This type of contraception is absolutely reversible, the recovery rate after stopping the pills, as a rule, is about a month and depends on the initial hormonal background and the duration of administration. If you want to get pregnant, it is enough to stop taking COCs.

CONDOM

This method has both advantages and disadvantages. The main and indisputable advantage (and even purpose!) Is that a condom is the most effective means of preventing sexually transmitted diseases.Clear statistics: according to an American study, of all people infected with sexually transmitted diseases, 20% never use a condom, and 50% use it incorrectly! It must also be recognized that condoms are convenient for occasional contact and are widely available.

Condoms, contrary to popular belief, are moderately effective methods of contraception. Thus, 25 out of 100 couples using a condom as a method of contraception face an unwanted pregnancy.Following this, there is also the problem of a woman’s fear of a possible unwanted pregnancy.

It would seem, how can you use a condom incorrectly? However, statistics stubbornly show that one of the main reasons for the low effectiveness of a condom is improper use or storage. By the way, keep in mind that long-term storage condoms deteriorate.

INTERRUPTED SEXUAL ACT

This method is probably the most ancient contraceptive – even in the Bible it is described how Onan poured out his semen on the earth, which angered God.The principle of this method is to remove the penis from the vagina before ejaculation begins.
Coitus interruptus is one of the most ineffective contraceptive methods. According to statistics, out of 100 couples using this method, about 25 of them face unwanted pregnancies. Firstly, not every man is able to control himself at the moment of orgasm (this is especially true for adolescents). Secondly, a certain amount of sperm is secreted at the very beginning of intercourse along with natural lubrication.According to some reports, this is the “vanguard”, consisting of the most mobile and viable spermatozoa, which, accordingly, makes the likelihood of conception very high. In addition, with repeated intercourse, sperm that remains after the first orgasm can enter the vagina. In addition to the unreliability of this method, it should be noted that it is harmful from a psychological and neurological point of view – the need to remove the penis disrupts the sensation of orgasm, both in men and women, which can lead to dissatisfaction with intercourse.And the lack of stimulation of the glans penis during orgasm can cause a violation of its mechanisms, leading to the development of various disorders.
Our verdict: very unpleasant, very difficult psychologically (for both men and women) and ineffective.

CALENDAR METHOD

The general principle of the calendar method is to determine the period in which the fertility is highest. Having calculated the “dangerous” period, you have to impose a taboo on sex these days. It should also be remembered that the relatively successful application of these methods requires self-discipline and careful record-keeping.Using these methods, you will have to solve arithmetic problems or conduct laboratory work every day, as in school time.
The disadvantages of natural methods are quite serious:

• determining the phase in which conception is most likely to be difficult for a woman / couple;
• women are forced to keep records on a daily basis;
• it takes up to three months (!) Of instruction and consultation for the records to be maintained correctly;
• there is an annoying need to abstain or interrupt the act during the “dangerous” phase;
• no protection against sexually transmitted diseases;
• due to uncertainty about the effectiveness of the methods, the woman feels psychological stress.

Our verdict: if there is any point in using this method, then only for the opposite purpose, that is, to calculate especially favorable days for conception.

INTRAUTERINE DEVICE (IUD)

An intrauterine device (IUD), commonly called a coil, is a small device that the doctor places into the uterus. Intrauterine devices prevent pregnancy, but oddly enough, no one still knows exactly how this happens!
Advantages and disadvantages. The spiral is a relatively effective method of contraception, but its use is very limited due to the possible development of complications. Among these possible complications are cervical rupture, bleeding, pain, frequent development of inflammatory diseases, ectopic pregnancy, infertility … All in all – a fairly serious list. That is why the spiral is not recommended for use, for example, by women under the age of 25 who do not yet have children. The inconvenience of the spiral is that only a doctor can install and remove this tool after a medical examination.Moreover, if you decide to have a child, it is not known how long you will have to wait after removing the spiral – in most women, the ability to become pregnant is restored within 1 year. The relative advantage of the spiral is the long term of its possible use – 5 years.

IRIS

This is a typical “feminine thing”. It looks like a domed latex or rubber cup. It is inserted into the vagina before intercourse, closing the cervix, and serves as a container for a cream that suppresses the activity of spermatozoa. Its purpose is the same as the purpose of the condom – to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.

For the correct use of the diaphragm, a number of conditions must be observed that can be considered inconvenient.

The rules are as follows:

• To install the diaphragm, you first need to empty your bladder (and, of course, wash your hands after that!).
• A rule that will remind you of the “heavy male lobe”: when going to use the diaphragm, check for holes in it. To do this, stretch the rubber and look at the light or fill it with water.
• The diaphragm is inserted into the vagina no earlier than six hours before intercourse. The technology of inserting the diaphragm itself, although compared to a condom, is actually a little more complicated. If your romantic plans change and the onset of the perfect moment is delayed for more than six hours, then you will have to add spermicidal cream.
• The introduction of an additional dose of cream or gel will also be required if your loved one pleases you again . ..
• Within six hours after intercourse, the diaphragm can be left in place, but not more than a day.

Our verdict is that the contraceptive effect leaves much to be desired – 30 out of 100 couples using this method, as a result, do not know what to do with an unwanted pregnancy.

SPERMICIDES

Spermicides belong to the class of chemical contraceptives. They contain an active ingredient that destroys sperm within a few seconds. In addition to the active substance, the spermicide contains its carrier – a means that provides the enveloping effect of the active substance in the vagina.Thanks to these properties of spermicides, a kind of barrier is created around the cervix, preventing the penetration of spermatozoa into the “dangerous” places of the female body. The contraceptive effect of spermicides is also very low – up to 30 pregnancies per 100 women.
Spermicides come in the form of cream, jelly, suppositories and tablets, films and foams.
The verdict was made by life itself: given the not very high contraceptive effect, the possibility of an allergic reaction, itching, burning sensation in the external genital area, unaesthetic, decreased spontaneity of sexual relations, spermicides were not widely used in practical life.

IMPLANTS AND INJECTIONS

Long-term contraception continues to attract attention. The most studied injectable drug is Depo Provera. The injection stops ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary), and also leads to changes in mucus in the cervical canal, the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity, in which the development of pregnancy is impossible. The contraceptive effect lasts three months.
Advantages and disadvantages. This method has several serious disadvantages.First, there are bleeding problems, such as irregular menstruation, spotting at different periods of the cycle, too heavy or no menstruation. In half of women using this method, bleeding will normalize only after the third injection. Secondly, some women gain up to 2 kg in weight by the end of the first year of use. This is mainly due to increased appetite. Swelling may also appear. 3. Mood swings, such as depression and irritability, decreased sex drive, headaches.Thirdly, with prolonged use of this method, bone tissue destruction occurs. And, fourthly, it should be borne in mind that a quick cancellation of this method is impossible. Given the complications described, this method is suitable for therapeutic use.

Lactational amenorrhea method

Lactational amenorrhea method (LAM) is a natural method of contraception, based on the use of the non-ovulation period during exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months after the birth of the baby.
For breastfeeding to be an effective method of contraception, it is necessary that the mother only breastfeeds the baby (exclusively breastfeeding) or, in extreme cases, breastfeeds the baby for almost all feedings (you can occasionally give juice or water).
The method has the advantage of encouraging breastfeeding, with all the ensuing benefits.
The disadvantages of this method include a sharp decrease in efficiency with the introduction of supplements and an increase in the intervals between feedings.

STERILIZATION

Female sterilization

Sterilization is a method of irreversible contraception leading to complete infertility.
True, even here we cannot speak of 100% reliability, since there is always a small probability that the operation will not give the desired result. Therefore, you can resort to it only if you are absolutely sure that you do not want to have a child. Female sterilization takes place in a hospital setting, consists in cutting, ligating or creating another artificial obstruction of the fallopian tubes (reference to the structure of the reproductive system).The end result is the same – because the fallopian tubes are impassable, the egg cannot meet with the sperm. This will keep your natural menstrual cycle going as it did before your surgery.
Advantages and disadvantages. As with any surgery, there is always a risk of complications such as infections, bleeding, adhesions. If, for some reason, a woman suddenly wanted to have a child, then in this case, pregnancy can occur only as a result of IVF (in vitro fertilization, “test tube baby”).One thing is clear – before deciding on sterilization, carefully consider all the consequences. Remember, this decision is made for life!

Male sterilization

Male sterilization (vasectomy) is a simple surgical procedure that involves cutting and ligating both vas deferens. This stops the flow of sperm into the seminal fluid, while the sex drive and orgasm remain the same.

Myths and Reality – National Health

Contraception: myths and reality

We continue our conversation with the Deputy Chief Physician of the Health of the Nation Medical Center, Candidate of Medical Sciences, Member of the Russian Association of Gynecologists-Endocrinologists, obstetrician-gynecologist of the highest qualification category Tatyana Petrovna Chernyavskaya.This time the topic of conversation: Contraception.

• Tatyana Petrovna, I would like to know about contraception, tell us where is the truth? After all, there are many myths that need to be dispelled.
• I want to start with the fact that you need to understand that no contraceptive can guarantee a 100% effect in preventing pregnancy! Pregnancy will not come only with complete abstinence from sexual activity. In all other cases, you need to make a compromise depending on the preferences or characteristics of the situation of a particular couple.
  As for the myths about contraception, there are a great many of them: you cannot tell about all of them. I will dwell on some of the most common ones. So,

Myth One: If you have sex during your period, the chances of getting pregnant are zero.

There is an opinion that unprotected sex during menstruation is the most reliable method of contraception in which pregnancy will not occur. In fact, the likelihood of conception exists during any period of the menstrual cycle. Here you can talk about another fact that every woman should know: sperm retain their fertilizing ability for up to 5 days.

Myth two: A man can interrupt intercourse before ejaculation, so pregnancy will not occur.

This is probably the most common misconception women believe in. A small amount of lubricant containing semen is released before ejaculation, so you can get pregnant even if your partner uses this precaution.

Myth Three: Birth control pills protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
The truth is, birth control pills are an effective method of contraception when used correctly.However, birth control pills are completely powerless against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases. The only 100% effective protection against unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases is sexual abstinence.

Myth Four: If you take a vaginal shower after sex, it will protect you from pregnancy.

Many women of all ages believe in this myth. A vaginal shower, bath or any rinsing after intercourse does not affect a woman’s ability to become pregnant in any way, and a simple washing is not enough.
Tip: The vaginal shower does not prevent pregnancy in any way, it only maintains hygiene, and therefore is generally not a recognized method of contraception.

The fifth myth: After using hormonal contraceptives, it will be impossible to get pregnant for a long time.

Quite the opposite is true. According to the studies carried out, in the first month after drug withdrawal, the likelihood of getting pregnant increases several times. Often, doctors use this method of treatment for certain forms of infertility.

I think I will dwell on this, but we will definitely return to this conversation in our next materials. You can talk on this topic for hours …

• Tatyana Petrovna, how can we summarize our conversation, what can you tell our patients?

There are a lot of methods to protect yourself from an unplanned pregnancy in modern society, so it is better to think about it in advance in order to prevent such a physically and psychologically traumatizing procedure for the female body as a medical abortion.Abortion, as we said in our last conversation, quite seriously and negatively affects a woman’s reproductive health. And since the choice of contraceptives today is very large, it is better to consult a doctor. This can be done in our medical center “Health of the Nation”. I will say right away that you will have to undergo a gynecological examination and, possibly, an ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs. In our clinic, this procedure can be successfully carried out using the most modern equipment – a premium Philips Epiq 5 ultrasound machine.Also, several tests, such as a vaginal smear and, possibly, a study of the level of some hormones, will be taken care of by the specialists of the medical center. After that, it will be possible to confidently offer exactly the method of contraception that is suitable for our particular patient.

90,000 what is this? What contraceptives are most effective

Douching, interrupted act, hormonal drugs, calendar method – we analyze in the article all the subtleties of a topic that is somehow not accepted in Russia to discuss.

Reasonable contraception is needed even by couples who are going to have children. If folic acid can be taken up to the 12th week of pregnancy, then the rubella vaccine should be done at least a month before conception, so as not to harm the unborn child. That is why experts recommend protection during the entire planning time.

The ideal method of contraception does not yet exist, and even proven methods are ineffective if used incorrectly.The most authoritative indicator that determines the reliability of contraceptives is the Pearl index. It shows the number of women who become pregnant out of 100 using one or another method of contraception during the year. For example, if the Pearl Index for a vasectomy is <1, then less than one in 100 women become pregnant. Also, the index indicators differ with the correct and incorrect use of contraceptives. Consider the effectiveness of protection by different methods according to the Pearl index:

Pearl Index: 2-18.

Index of the most common method of contraception – condoms – from 2 to 18.That is, if used improperly, the risk of pregnancy is seriously increased. Moreover, two condoms at the same time will not help, but will break. But this method, when used correctly, is guaranteed to protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

• Coitus interruptus

Pearl Index: 4-22.

This method is not recommended by doctors at all due to its low effectiveness and lack of protection against STDs.

• Calendar method

Pearl Index: 0.4-24.

The calendar method can be much more effective than a condom. The Pearl Index when used correctly is only 0.4. The peculiarity of this method is in the countdown of five days before and three – after ovulation, when the probability of conception is maximum. But due to stress, climate change and disease, the date of ovulation can shift, leading to an unplanned pregnancy. Pearl’s index in this case reaches 24. The resistance of the method to STDs is also zero.

• Hormonal preparations

Pearl Index: 0.1-9.

The most effective method of female contraception is hormonal drugs. With the right approach, they almost 100% protect against pregnancy, since when they are used, ovulation does not occur. The action of the drugs is reversible, but it is recommended that you regularly see a specialist in order to prescribe a different medication if necessary. There are quite a few pills and other forms of hormonal contraception, but in no case should they be used without the appointment of a gynecologist. With proper use, the Pearl index of the method does not exceed 0.1, but due to the irregularity of admission and side effects, it can increase to 9.

• Injections, implants, intrauterine ring

Pearl Index: 0.1-3.

Some of the most powerful and effective methods of contraception are injections every few months, implants and intrauterine devices. For each of the methods, the Pearl index, when used correctly, does not exceed one.

One of the key knowledge that Pearl’s index gives us is that it is important not only to use contraceptives, but to use contraceptives correctly and strictly follow all instructions for drugs and other methods in order to avoid an unplanned pregnancy.

Contraception

Contraception: What to Choose?

Modern medicine can offer different methods of contraception, but there are no ideal ones. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Therefore, it is important to find what is right for you. And you should not search, experimenting with your health, solve this issue only together with specialists. Moreover, a lot depends on the method of contraception you choose, including the birth of your future children.

Hormones

The principle of their action is based on the fact that with the help of synthetic preparations of female sex hormones, the work of the ovaries is blocked, and they lose the ability to eject eggs, that is, they enter a state of complete physiological rest. Ovulation does not occur, and the likelihood of pregnancy is completely excluded.

Oral preparations

Many doctors believe that the most physiological, safe and effective method of preventing pregnancy is the contraceptive pill.They need to be taken daily for three weeks. Then – a week break (menstruation begins), after which the pills are taken again. Thus, the woman artificially creates 28-day cycles.

With proper administration and good tolerance of the drugs, pregnancy is impossible. Modern birth control pills contain a minimum amount of hormones and do not cause severe adverse reactions.

Only occasionally do some women experience depression, slight weight gain, which is easily controlled by diet.The benefits of pills include regulation of the menstrual cycle, painless menstruation, and improved skin condition.

Existing low-dose oral contraceptives are suitable for women of all ages in the absence of severe common diseases. You can use such funds for an unlimited amount of time. If the drug is well tolerated, the tablets should be taken regularly for several years, since frequent withdrawal or irregular use can cause ovarian failure.

Injection forms

These forms are very effective. There are drugs for injection every three months, as well as for monthly injections. The main side effects are unpredictable, irregular bleeding, heavier periods, weight gain, and depression. Sometimes there may be no menses at all. For repeated injections, you must contact the Clinic, depending on the type of drug, once every 28 days or every three months.

New hormonal contraceptives

Recently, vaginal rings have appeared, which gradually release a certain amount of hormones over three weeks, then, after removing, during a week’s break, the woman begins menstruation.

When using this method of contraception, it is possible to reduce the frequency of adverse reactions to a minimum.

Intrauterine devices

Until recently, many women preferred them. However, this is far from the safest method of contraception.

The principle of operation of the spiral is based on the creation of a constant inflammatory reaction in the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity, therefore, sometimes the spiral can become an additional factor in the development of inflammatory gynecological diseases, stimulate the growth of fibroids or the development of endometriosis.

This method is justified in women who have given birth in the absence of even the slightest gynecological pathology who have one permanent sexual partner, since when pathogens enter the genital tract of a woman, the risk of serious inflammatory diseases increases sharply, because in the uterine cavity there is a foreign body that supports the inflammatory reaction.

But for those women who have not yet given birth, but are interested in pregnancy in the future, this method of contraception should be abandoned.There are also intrauterine devices containing hormonal agents (as a spiral with levonorgestrel can have a therapeutic effect in certain gynecological diseases).

Barrier methods

Condoms. In terms of effectiveness, they are inferior to many other means, but they remain the main method that allows you to avoid contracting diseases through sexual contact. If your partner refuses to use condoms, female condoms can be used. There are also diaphragms, neck caps, spermicides.

The main disadvantage of the method is that it is necessary to use these funds correctly during intercourse, which is not always possible.

Individual selection of the cap and diaphragm requires a consultation with a specialist. The attractive side of the method is the low frequency of adverse reactions. Most often, this is just a minor allergic reaction. As for the use of spermicides, which must be injected into the vagina immediately before intercourse, this is a fairly effective method, especially when used simultaneously with a condom.This approach has established itself as an inexpensive, effective and safe method of contraception.

Emergency contraception

The essence of the method is that high doses of preparations of synthetic sex hormones are used immediately after intercourse (the next day).

Such means should be used only if you could not use another method of contraception, or if the condom breaks.