Pill Among Least Effective Birth Control Methods
Peipert, in an interview with Washington University’s Jeff Dryden, says it’s clear why LARC methods are the most effective forms of contraception. “One they are put in place, you don’t have to remember to change a ring or change a patch or take a pill everyday. Any method that relies on adherence or compliance is subject to failure.”
The U.S. National Institutes of Health estimates that 150 million women worldwide use the copper IUD, which is inexpensive and easily removed.
What is the best method of birth control (or contraception)?
There is no “best” method of birth control. Each method has its pros and cons.
All women and men can have control over when, and if, they become parents. Making choices about birth control, or contraception, isn’t easy. There are many things to think about. To get started, learn about birth control methods you or your partner can use to prevent pregnancy. You can also talk with your doctor about the choices.
Before choosing a birth control method, think about:
- Your overall health
- How often you have sex
- The number of sex partners you have
- If you want to have children someday
- How well each method works to prevent pregnancy
- Possible side effects
- Your comfort level with using the method
Keep in mind, even the most effective birth control methods can fail. But your chances of getting pregnant are lowest if the method you choose always is used correctly and every time you have sex.
An article comparing the effectiveness of long-acting to short-acting contraceptive methods is published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Types of birth control
Continuous abstinence
Natural family planning/rhythm method
Barrier methods
- Contraceptive sponge
- Diaphragm, cervical cap, and cervical shield
- Female condom
- Male condom
Hormonal methods
- Oral contraceptives — combined pill (“The pill”)
- Oral contraceptives — progestin-only pill (“Mini-pill”)
- The patch
- Shot/injection
- Vaginal ring
Implantable devices
- Implantable rods
- Intrauterine devices
Permanent birth control methods
- Sterilization implant
- Surgical sterilization
Emergency contraception
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Jessica Berman