Please remember that only condoms (external or internal) can
protect you from sexually
transmitted diseases (STDs). None of the other birth control options protect against
STDs. It’s not a bad idea to go with both—using a condom in combination with
another birth control method will protect against STDs and provide even greater
effectiveness against pregnancy.
The Pill
The pill is very effective, preventing pregnancies in up to 92–99%
of cases. The pill uses hormones—usually estrogen and progestin—that prevent
ovulation so fertilization cannot take place. Some women don’t tolerate
estrogen well, however, and in those cases, a non-estrogen alternative may be a
better choice.
To be effective, the pill must be taken every day at about the
same time and begins to lose its efficacy if you skip a dose or take it on an
erratic schedule. So, while it’s a convenient, at-home “do it yourself” option,
it does require diligence, consistency and a visit to your provider for a
prescription. The pill is an affordable option, with costs ranging from $0 to
$50 per month.
The Shot
The shot contains progestin but not estrogen, making it a good
option if you don’t tolerate estrogen well. Statistically, it’s just slightly
more effective than the pill, preventing pregnancy in up to 94–98% of cases
when taken on schedule. The injection must be administered by your provider and
re-administered every three months, which means making and keeping regular
medical appointments. The shot can cost from $0 to $150 per injection.
The Implant
The implant is a great birth control option, both for convenience
and effectiveness. This thin, matchstick-sized rod is implanted in your arm by
a doctor or nurse and then continues to do its job for up to three years, with an
amazing 99% effectiveness rate. Any side effects are usually temporary,
subsiding after a few months. Like the injection, the implant contains
progestin without estrogen. Your provider will have to remove and/or replace it
every few years, requiring an occasional visit. This can be a pricier option,
with costs ranging from $0 to $1,300 per implant.
The IUD
Short for “intrauterine device,” an IUD is a flexible plastic item
inserted by a doctor into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. The IUD is another “set
it and don’t sweat it” option, remaining effective for years after
implantation. It is also one of the most effective methods available,
preventing pregnancies in up to 99% of cases.
There are two types: copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs. Copper IUDs
don’t contain any hormones and protect against pregnancy for up to 12 years.
Hormonal IUDs, which steadily release small amounts of progestin into the
uterus, work for 3–8 years. Like the implant, the IUD can cost from $0 to $1,300
each.
The Patch
Worn on your belly, behind, back or (in some cases) arm, the patch
is a convenient and effective birth control method. It successfully prevents
pregnancy in up to 92% of cases, and while an initial visit to your provider is
required for a prescription, you can apply the patches yourself at home.
The flip side to this convenience is that you’ll need to be
vigilant about replacing your patches weekly and making sure to keep your
prescription refilled—any timing gap in replacing your patch can decrease its
effectiveness significantly. The patch contains a combination of estrogen and
progestin, and costs between $0 to $150 per month.
The Condom
A condom is the only birth control option that also helps protect
against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It is also a good choice if you only
wish to think about contraception when you need it. You don’t need a
prescription, or doctor visit to buy condoms—they are easily available, no
questions asked.
However, male (external) condoms are only about 82% effective in
preventing pregnancies compared to the higher efficacy rates of IUDs, implants,
injections and pills. Combining a condom with one of these other methods
protects against STDs and further decreases your risk of becoming pregnant.
Condoms are very affordable, with costs ranging from $0 to $2 apiece.
The Pull-Out Method
The pull-out, or withdrawal, method is simply the act of
withdrawing the penis from the vagina prior to ejaculation. It is most
effective when combined with a condom—on its own, it has an effectiveness rate
of about 76–78%. The timing is everything, and it has to be right every time,
leaving little to no room for error. If you use the withdrawal method, you
might want to consider having emergency contraception on hand.
Here for All Your Questions
This is just a quick overview of some of the birth control options
available. It’s best to speak with your health care provider to get all the
information you need to make a well-informed decision when choosing
your birth control plan We are here to answer all of your questions thoroughly and without judgment.
All questions are good questions. We just want you to be fully empowered in
making the best decisions for your health. Please reach out
with questions or to schedule an appointment.
