It’s 2019 and there have never been more contraceptive options available for individuals looking to avoid pregnancy. Below is a list of the birth control options currently available and their respective efficiency.
CONDOMS
What are they?
Condoms are thin pouches made of latex (rubber), plastic (polyurethane, nitrile, or polyisoprene) or lambskin that cover the penis during sex and prevent semen from entering the vagina. Note: condoms made of lambskin do not prevent STIs, but they’re still effective for reducing the risk for pregnancy.
Internal condoms are pouches made out of nitrile (soft plastic) that you put inside of your vagina or anus to act as a barrier so sperm cannot enter. Internal condoms also prevent STIs.
Condoms are an accessible form of birth control that you can find in your local drug stores, college campus, Planned Parenthood health centers, doctor’s office, or supermarket. There is no age restriction to buy condoms, and no prescription is needed.
Do they protect against STIs?
Yes, condoms reduce your chances of getting a sexually transmitted infection during oral, anal, and vaginal sex.
How often do I have to switch it?
You should use a new condom every time you have sex. Make sure to replace condoms if you’re switching between anal and vaginal sex to prevent bacterial infections.
How effective are condoms?
Condoms used for penises are 85% effective, while condoms for vaginas are 79% effective.
Benefits?
- Inexpensive
- Do not need a prescription
- Protect against STIs
- Can be used with other birth control methods
- Disposable
- Convenient
Considerations?
- Condom size does matter, so make sure you are using a condom that fits securely and comfortably.
- Condoms have an expiration date.
- Do not use a male and female condom at the same time or two male condoms.
- Play around with different brands and types of condoms to see which type fits and feels best.
“THE PILL”
What is it?
The birth control pill is an oral contraceptive that uses hormones estrogen and progestin to prevent pregnancy. These hormones stop ovulation so the sperm and egg can’t fertilize, which stops pregnancy from happening. These hormones also thicken the mucus on the cervix, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg. The pill continues to work through the month, even when you are taking placebo pills so that additional forms of contraception aren’t needed.
A prescription is needed to get the pill. There are many different brands, so talk to your healthcare provider if you think it’s right for you.
Do they protect against STIs?
No, the pill does not prevent STIs. You should still use condoms while you’re on the pill to protect you and your partner from infections.
How often do I have to take it?
The pill is meant to be taken once every day. You should take it at the same time every day to make it as effective as possible. To remind yourself to take it, set an alarm and keep your pill pack in a convenient place.
How effective is the pill?
The pill is 91% effective when taken at the same time, every day.
Benefits?
- A convenient form of contraception.
- May lead to lighter or more regular periods.
- Can decrease menstrual cramps.
- The pill can help time your period.
- Allows for sexual spontaneity.
Side effects? (Most will go away by the second or third month of use – as your body adjusts to the hormones)
- Headaches.
- Nausea.
- Spotting between periods.
- Decreasing libido.
- Breast tenderness.
IUD (Intrauterine Device)
What is it?
An IUD is a small, T-shaped contraceptive that sits in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUDs: copper (ParaGard) and hormonal (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla). The copper IUD has no hormones, and the copper itself is what prevents sperm from getting to an egg. The hormonal IUDs use a hormone called progestin, which thickens the cervical mucus to trap the sperm, and sometimes stops ovulation altogether.
How often do I have to switch it?
ParaGard can protect you for up to 12 years. Mirena and Liletta work for up to 7 years, Kyleena works for up to 5 years, and Skyla works for up to 3 years. If you prefer a birth control with little maintenance, IUDs may be a good choice.
Do they protect against STIs?
No, IUDs do not lower your risk of getting STIs.
How effective are they?
IUDs are 99% effective. Copper IUDs can also be used as emergency contraception, and if inserted within 5 days after unprotected sex, it’s more than 99.9% effective.
Benefits?
- REALLY convenient (You barely have to think about it).
- Discreet.
- Does not require daily dosing.
- You can get pregnant after you have it removed.
- Can reduce cramps.
- Can make your period lighter or no period at all.
- The copper IUD has no hormones.
Side effects?
- Spotting between periods.
- Cramping.
- Irregular periods.
- Heavier periods and worse cramps (copper IUD).
IMPLANT
What is it?
The birth control implant, also known as Nexplanon, is a matchstick-size device that’s inserted with a gun into the upper arm by a nurse or doctor to prevent pregnancy. The insertion process is similar to getting your ears pierced and it is removed with topical numbing cream and a quick incision. The implant releases the hormone progestin that works the same way as a hormonal IUD.
How often do I have to switch it?
The birth control implant last up to 3 years.
Do they protect against STIs?
No, the implant does not lower your risk of getting STIs.
How effective are they?
The implant is 99% effective.
Benefits?
- Discreet
- Does not require daily dosing
- Good option for those who can’t use estrogen contraceptive methods
- Fewer hormonal ups and downs due to the steady flow of hormones
Side effects?
The most common side effect is irregular menstrual bleeding. This is the most common reason for removal of Nexplanon. Other side effects can include weight gain, headaches, acne, and abdominal pain. However, it is a safe form of birth control for most women.
BIRTH CONTROL SHOT
What is it?
The birth control shot, also known as Depo-Provera, is an injection you get from a doctor or nurse that contains the hormone progestin. This hormone works the same way as a hormonal IUD or implant to prevent pregnancy.
How often to I have to get it?
In order to be effective, you must get the birth control shot every 12-13 weeks, or every 3 months. To make sure you don’t miss your appointments, add them to your calendar or have a friend or family member remind you.
Do they protect against STIs?
No, the shot does not lower your risk of getting STIs.
How effective is it?
The birth control shot is 94% effective when it’s injected every 12-13 weeks.
Benefits?
- Convenient and private (You get the shot at a doctor’s office).
- Does not require daily dosing.
- Can lighten or stop your period.
- It can help protect you from uterine cancer and ectopic pregnancy.
- The shot is temporary, you can get pregnant after you stop using it.
Side effects?
- You have to get the injection every 3 months.
- Change in your period.
- Weight gain.
- Headaches.
- Breast tenderness.
- It can take up to 10 months after stopping the shot to get pregnant.
BIRTH CONTROL PATCH
What is it?
The birth control patch is a transdermal [application of a medicine or drug through the skin] contraceptive that you can wear on your stomach, upper arm, butt, or back. The patch contains estrogen and progestin to help prevent pregnancy.
How often do I have to switch it?
Similar to the pill, you only wear the patch for three weeks, then you get a break for one week before putting on another.
Do they protect against STIs?
No, the patch does not lower your risk of contracting STIs.
How effective is it?
When used correctly, the birth control patch is 91% effective.
Benefits?
- Convenient.
- No daily dosing.
- Can make your period lighter and less cramping.
- Can regulate your period.
- Can reduce acne.
- You can get pregnant right away when you stop using it.Disadvantages?
- You have to change it on time.
- There can be negative side effects: bleeding between periods, nausea, headaches and more.
- Some side effects can be serious: these include heart attack, stroke, and blood clots. Talk to your doctor to see if you are a good canidate for the patch.
BIRTH CONTROL RING
What is it?
The birth control ring, also known as the NuvaRing, is a contraceptive that sits inside of the vagina. The vaginal lining absorbs the hormones estrogen and progestin which help prevent pregnancy. You need a prescription to get the NuvaRing.
How often do I have to switch it?
In order to be effective, you must change the ring once a month.
Does it protect against STIs?
No, the NuvaRing does not lower your risk of getting STIs.
How effective is it?
When used correctly, the NuvaRing is 91% effective.
Benefits?
- Convenient.
- No daily dosing.
- Makes your period regular.
- Can lighten your period and reduce cramps.
- Can reduce acne.
- You can get pregnant after using it.Disadvantages?
- Your partner can feel it during fingering, etc.
- You need to change it on time
- You can have spotting between periods.
- Extra vaginal wetness.
- Change in libido.
- Some side effects can be serious. Talk to your doctor to see if you are a good candidate.
Every medication and type of birth control has side effects. It’s best that you do your own research before settling on an option and, if available, consult with a medical professional.
Photos (in order of appearance) by @retro_fucking, unknown, Oliver Hadlee Pearch, and Petra Collins.