Contraception options - types, finding the best birth control for you

Birth control (also called contraception) is how you prevent pregnancy. Using contraception (birth control) allows people to have penis-in-vagina sex while preventing an unplanned pregnancy. Many different methods of contraception are available. Pregnancy can happen when sperm released during penis-in-vagina sex fertilises an egg, which then implants in your uterus (womb). Birth control only works when you use it correctly.

How does birth control work?

Each form of birth control works slightly different. Some of the ways it works include:

• Preventing sperm from reaching an egg.
• Preventing your ovary from releasing an egg.
• Damaging sperm so it can’t swim to an egg.
• Thickening your cervical mucus so sperm can’t swim through it.
• Changing the thickness of your uterine lining so an egg can’t implant.

Types of birth control available

There are many different types of birth control available, ranging from short-acting medications to permanent procedures.

Barrier methods

Barrier methods block sperm from getting into your uterus. You use a barrier method each time you have sex. Some types also help protect you from STIs. These options don’t require medication or hormones to be effective.

• Male condom: A thin rubber or plastic covering worn on the penis during sex. Condoms are the only contraceptive method that also help prevent STIs.
• Female condom: Inserted into the vagina before sex.
• Diaphragm: A soft, reusable silicone cap placed in the vagina before sex to cover the cervix. It prevents pregnancy by stopping sperm from entering the uterus.
• Cervical cap: About 71%-86% effective at stopping pregnancy.

Hormonal contraception

These methods use hormones to prevent ovulation or change the conditions in your uterus and cervix.

• The combined oral contraceptive pill: Also known as ‘the pill’ or OCP, is a tablet taken daily to prevent pregnancy.
• The vaginal ring: A flexible plastic ring inserted high into the vagina. It contains the same hormones as the pill and works in the same way.
• The contraceptive injection: A hormone injection given every 3 months.
• The contraceptive implant: A small plastic rod that can be inserted under the skin of your upper arm. It releases a hormone over 3 years to prevent pregnancy.

Intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs)

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small device that is placed inside your uterus (womb) to prevent pregnancy. There are 2 types of IUD:

• The hormonal IUD: A long-term progestin-based device that thickens your cervical mucus to stop sperm from entering your uterus.
• The copper IUD: Offers protection against pregnancy for about 10 years without medication or hormones.

Lifestyle and Natural methods

Lifestyle methods of birth control offer a way to avoid pregnancy without the need for medication or hormones. These methods mean making conscious choices and careful planning, but they don’t protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

• Natural family planning: This method involves tracking ovulation. When you know the days you’re ovulating and fertile, you avoid having sex to prevent pregnancy.
• Withdrawal: Sometimes called the pull-out method, involves the man ejaculating away from the vagina.
• Abstinence: Refraining from sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy. This method is the only way to have 100% protection from pregnancy.

Permanent methods

Permanent methods of birth control, like vasectomy and tubal ligation, prevent any possible pregnancies in the future. These methods, referred to as sterilization, are extremely effective, providing nearly 100% protection from pregnancy.

Effectiveness and Comparison

No form of birth control is 100% effective, but some methods are more effective than others. Based on the provided data, here is the effectiveness of various methods:

• Abstinence: 100% effective.
• Sterilization: Nearly 100% effective.
• Diaphragm: Up to 88% effective.
• Natural family planning: 76%-88% effective.
• Male condoms: Up to 85% effective.
• Withdrawal: About 80% effective.
• Female condoms: Up to 79% effective.
• Sponges: About 76%-88% effective.

Choosing the best birth control for you

By learning more about birth control options, you can decide which method is best for you and your partner. Consider the following factors when making your decision:

• Ease of use or comfort level using the method.
• Effectiveness at preventing pregnancy (with correct use).
• Protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• Your age and overall health.
• Side effects or risks.
• How frequently you have sex or how many partners you have.

Discuss contraception with a new partner before having sex, so you can choose a method that works for you. Your doctor can help you understand the benefits and risks of each type of birth control.