Which birth control is right for me?
Which birth control is right for me?
If you’re having sex and don’t want to get pregnant, figuring out the right birth control can feel like… a lot. There are tons of options out there, some with hormones, some without, some you use only during sex, and others you barely have to think about for years. This guide walks you through the major questions to help you narrow down what actually fits your body and your lifestyle. From long-term methods to on-the-spot protection, consider this your simple, step-by-step way to understand your choices. Everyone’s body, health history, and preferences are unique, discussing with a doctor can help you sort through the safest and most effective option for you.
Follow the flow chart to find the right birth control method for you
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Learn more about each birth control method
These pills are taken daily. They can provide relief of period cramps, blood loss, hormonal acne, and PMS and may be used for period suppression. When used perfectly, it has a 99.7% efficacy.
These pills are taken daily and are an option when someone needs to avoid estrogen. Depending on the formulation, individuals may lose their period. When used perfectly, it has a 98% efficacy.
This is a T-shaped device that must be inserted into the cervix by a trained provider. There are many types, including three-year, five-year and eight-year variants and those for people who have never had children. When used perfectly, it has a >99.4% efficacy.
This is a T-shaped device that must be inserted into the cervix by a trained provider. There are two variants, one that lasts for three years and one for ten. Side effects include worsened period bleeding and pain for six months after insertion. When used perfectly, it has a 99.4% efficacy.
This is a medicated implant that is inserted by a healthcare provider under the skin of your upper arm. It lasts up to three years. When used perfectly, it has a 99.9% efficacy.
This shot is administered by a healthcare provider every 13 weeks. Most people ultimately lose their period while on Depo, so it’s a great solution for heavy, painful bleeding. When used perfectly, it has a 99.8% efficacy.
These are small patches placed somewhere on the midsection. You must change patch and position weekly. It's less effective for BMI over 30. When used perfectly, it has a 99.7% efficacy.
Most common form is a disposable ring inserted into the vaginal canal and left in place for 3 weeks, then removed for a week to allow for withdrawal bleeding. When used perfectly, it has a 99.7% efficacy.
Latex, polyurethane, or polyisoprene coverings for the penis that come in a variety of textures and sizes. When used perfectly, it has a 98% efficacy.
A diaphragm is inserted into the vagina (similar to a menstrual disc) before sex and can be removed six hours after sex. It must be used with spermicide for maximum efficacy. When used perfectly, it has a 94% efficacy.
Spermicide or Contraceptive Gel
Though significantly less effective when used alone, both work by killing sperm and blocking the cervical entrance. When used perfectly, spermicide has a 83% efficacy and contraceptive gel has a 94% efficacy.
This requires close tracking of your menstrual cycle. Avoid penetrative vaginal sex or use a condom during your fertile window for best results. When used perfectly, it has a 94% efficacy.
These are considered permanent forms of contraception and are very effective. While it is possible for the procedure to be reversed, this is not a reliable option. When used perfectly, it has a 99.5-99.9% efficacy.
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