Birth control (contraception) is any method, medicine, or device used to prevent pregnancy. Women can choose from many different types of birth control. Some work better than others at preventing pregnancy. The type of birth control you use depends on your health, your desire to have children now or in the future, and your need to prevent sexually transmitted infections.

I can help you decide which type is best for you right now.

There is no “best” method of birth control for every woman. The birth control method that is right for you and your partner depends on many things, and may change over time.

Before choosing a birth control method, I’ll talk with you about:

  • Whether you want to get pregnant soon, in a few years, or never
  • How well each method works to prevent pregnancy
  • Possible side effects
  • The number of sex partners you have
  • Your overall health
  • How comfortable you are with using the method (For example, can you remember to take a pill every day? Will you have to ask your partner to put on a condom each time?)

Keep in mind that even the most effective birth control methods can fail. But your chances of getting pregnant are lower if you use a more effective method.

Types of Birth Control

Women can choose from many different types of birth control methods. These include, in order of most effective to least effective at preventing pregnancy:

  • Female sterilization (removal of the tubes). This surgical procedure prevents pregnancy for the rest of your life.
  • Long-acting reversible contraceptives or “LARC” methods (intrauterine devices, hormonal implants). LARC methods require a one-time insert so you do not have to remember to use birth control every day or month. LARCs last for 3 to 10 years, depending on the method. IUDs can be used by women of all ages and parity. Young women in their teens can use an IUD!
  • Short-acting hormonal methods (pill, mini pills, patch, injection, vaginal ring). This is prescribed birth control that you remember to take every day or month. The shot requires you to get an injection every 3 months.
  • Barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms, sponge, cervical cap). This is birth control you use each time you have sex.
  • Natural rhythm methods. Not using a type of birth control but instead avoiding sex and/or using birth control only on the days when you are most likely to get pregnant. An ovulation home test kit or a fertility monitor can help you find your most fertile days.