Choosing the right birth control method is a deeply personal decision that can depend on various factors, including health, lifestyle, and family planning goals. In 2024, women have more options than ever before. Understanding the different types of birth control – and the effects each can have on your body and health – will help you determine which is best for you.
1. Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
IUDs remain a top choice for women seeking a long-term, hassle-free birth control method. There are two main types: hormonal and copper.
- Hormonal IUDs (e.g., Mirena, Skyla) release small amounts of progestin, thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining to prevent sperm from reaching the egg.
- Copper IUDs (e.g., Paragard) are hormone-free and use copper’s natural spermicidal properties.
Effectiveness: Over 99%
Duration: 3 to 12 years, depending on the type
Pros: Low maintenance, cost-effective over time, reversible upon removal
Cons: Potential for initial discomfort and spotting, insertion requires a healthcare provider
2. Birth Control Implants
The birth control implant (e.g., Nexplanon) is a small rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm. It releases progestin to prevent ovulation and thickens cervical mucus.
Effectiveness: Over 99%
Duration: Up to 3 years
Pros: Highly effective, low maintenance, quickly reversible
Cons: Possible side effects include irregular bleeding, weight gain, and mood changes; requires a minor procedure for insertion and removal
3. Combination Hormonal Methods
Birth Control Pills
Oral contraceptives combine estrogen and progestin to prevent ovulation. With a wide variety of formulations, pills can also address issues like acne and menstrual irregularities.
Effectiveness: About 91% with typical use
Pros: Regulates periods, reduces menstrual cramps, non-invasive
Cons: Requires daily adherence, potential for side effects like nausea and weight gain
Birth Control Patch
The patch (e.g., Xulane, Twirla) is applied to the skin and replaced weekly. It delivers a continuous dose of estrogen and progestin.
Effectiveness: About 91% with typical use
Pros: Weekly regimen, easy to use, regulates periods
Cons: Skin irritation, less effective in women over 198 pounds, requires regular changes
4. Progestin-Only Options
Birth Control Shot
The Depo-Provera shot is an injection of progestin given every three months.
Effectiveness: About 94% with typical use
Pros: Infrequent dosing, reduces menstrual cramps, non-daily method
Cons: Requires quarterly healthcare visits, potential for weight gain and bone density loss with long-term use
Progestin-Only Pills
Mini-pills contain only progestin and are suitable for women who cannot take estrogen.
Effectiveness: About 91% with typical use
Pros: Suitable for breastfeeding women, fewer side effects than combination pills
Cons: Requires strict daily adherence, potential for irregular bleeding
5. Barrier Methods
Condoms
Condoms, both male and female, provide a barrier to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. They are also the only method that protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Effectiveness: About 85% with typical use for male condoms, 79% for female condoms
Pros: STI protection, available over-the-counter, no hormones
Cons: Must be used correctly every time, potential for breakage or slippage
Diaphragms and Cervical Caps
These are inserted into the vagina before intercourse to cover the cervix and block sperm.
Effectiveness: About 88% with typical use for diaphragms, 71% to 86% for cervical caps
Pros: Non-hormonal, reusable, can be inserted hours before intercourse
Cons: Must be used with spermicide, requires fitting by a healthcare provider, less effective than some other methods
The best birth control option varies for each woman, based on her health needs, lifestyle, and family planning goals. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help in making an informed choice. Whether you prefer a long-term solution like an IUD, a hormonal method like the pill, or a barrier method like condoms, the array of options in 2024 ensures that there is a suitable method for every woman.