Contraceptive comparison: which birth control fits your life?
Choosing birth control feels messy. This quick, practical comparison breaks down the most common options—how well they work, main side effects, what to expect, and who they suit. Read the short summaries, then use the checklist at the end to narrow choices.
Top methods at a glance
IUD (hormonal): 99% effective. Inserted by a clinician, works 3–7 years depending on type. Pros: nearly hands-off, great for long term. Cons: irregular spotting at first, possible cramping at insertion.
IUD (copper): 99% effective. Non-hormonal, can be used as emergency contraception if within 5 days. Pros: hormone-free, long-lasting. Cons: heavier periods, cramps for some users.
Implant: 99% effective. A small rod under the arm that lasts about 3 years. Pros: low-maintenance, reversible. Cons: irregular bleeding for many, minor procedure to insert/remove.
Combined pill: 91% typical use, 99% perfect use. Daily pill with estrogen and progestin. Pros: predictable cycles, reduced cramps for some. Cons: missed pills lower effectiveness, interacts with some meds, not for smokers over 35.
Progestin-only pill: 91% typical use. Good if you can't take estrogen. Pros: safe for breastfeeding. Cons: must be taken at the same time daily for best effect.
Shot (Depo-Provera): 94% typical use. Injection every 12–13 weeks. Pros: private, no daily routine. Cons: weight gain for some, fertility can take months to return.
Patch & ring: 91% typical use. Weekly patch or monthly vaginal ring. Pros: less daily hassle. Cons: skin irritation (patch) or vaginal discomfort (ring); similar side effect profile to combined pill.
Condoms: 85% typical use. Only method that protects against STIs. Pros: accessible, no prescription. Cons: lower pregnancy protection than long-acting methods; avoid oil-based lubricants with latex.
Fertility awareness: 76% typical use. Tracks cycle to avoid sex on fertile days. Pros: no hormones, low cost. Cons: needs daily attention and reliable cycles; higher failure rate.
How to pick the right one
Match method to your priorities: do you want no daily tasks, no hormones, or STI protection? Check medical limits: smokers over 35 usually avoid combined hormonal methods; some meds like certain anticonvulsants reduce pill effectiveness. Think about future plans—how soon you want to get pregnant matters.
Talk to a clinician about insertion options and quick starts. If cost or access is a worry, public clinics and many pharmacies offer options at low or no cost. Emergency contraception (levonorgestrel or copper IUD) is available if you need it after unprotected sex.
Quick checklist: 1) Do you need STI protection? 2) How long do you want it to last? 3) Any medical issues or meds? 4) How do you feel about hormones? 5) Can you commit to a daily or timed method?
Want a short next step? Make a list of your must-haves and bring it to your appointment. A good clinician will help match a method to your body and lifestyle—not push one option only.
Not sure? Try a short-term method, track how you feel for a few months, then switch if it doesn't fit at all.
