Understanding the Different Types of Birth Control Methods: A Comprehensive Guide
Using contraception (birth control) allows people to have penis-in-vagina sex while preventing an unplanned pregnancy. Pregnancy can happen when sperm released during penis-in-vagina sex fertilises an egg, which then implants in your uterus (womb). There are many different forms of contraception available, and your doctor can help you understand the benefits and risks of each type of birth control.
What should I think about when choosing contraception?
No form of birth control is 100% effective, but some methods are more effective than others. Aside from preventing pregnancy, some — but not all — methods of contraception can also help prevent transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It’s important to discuss contraception with a new partner before you decide to have sex. Contraception affects both you and your partner, so you are both responsible for it. Your choice of contraception might be an individual one, or a decision you make with your partner.
Types of contraception available
There are many different types of birth control available, including barrier, hormonal, and permanent options.
Barrier methods
- Male condom: A male condom is a thin rubber or plastic covering worn on the penis during sex.
- Female condom: A female condom is 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.
Condoms are the only contraceptive method that also help prevent STIs. You can use condoms together with other forms of contraception to prevent pregnancy and STIs.
Hormonal contraception for females
- The combined oral contraceptive pill: Also known as ‘the pill’ or OCP, is a tablet taken daily to prevent pregnancy. It contains a combination of hormones.
- 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 progestogen-only pill: A tablet you take daily to prevent pregnancy. It contains the hormone progestogen.
- 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 (IUD)
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 and the copper IUD. An IUD needs to be put in place by a trained doctor or nurse. It can be left in place for 5 to 10 years.
Categorizing contraceptive methods by efficacy
One common way of categorizing contraceptive methods is by looking at how often you need to remember to take or use them, for example, there are short-term contraceptives and long-acting reversible contraception methods.
| Category | Methods (Ranked by Efficacy) |
|---|---|
| Long-acting methods | Contraceptive Implant, Hormonal Coil (IUS), Copper Coil (IUD) |
| Short-acting methods | Contraceptive Injection, The Pill, Contraceptive Patch, Contraceptive Ring, External (male) Condom, Diaphragm, Internal (female) Condom, Sponge, Cervical Cap, Spermicides |
| Other options | Sterilization, Natural Family Planning, Pull-Out (Withdrawal) Method, Emergency Contraception |
Which type of contraception is best for me?
To find a suitable contraceptive method, it helps you gauge their effectiveness, side effects, and suitability for your lifestyle, ensuring an informed decision on planning your sexual and reproductive health. You can use a guide when you need a quick reference on various birth control methods. Finally, consult your doctor to get answers to open questions and help you understand the benefits and risks of each type.