How to Choose

How to Choose the Right Contraception Method for Yourself?

Choosing a contraception method involves considering individual needs and preferences, including effectiveness, convenience, cost, potential side effects, and the need for partner involvement. It's recommended to discuss options with a healthcare provider to determine the best method for your specific circumstances.

Here's a breakdown of factors to consider:

1. Effectiveness

Pregnancy prevention: Methods vary in their effectiveness. Consider the number of pregnancies per 100 women using the method over a year to gauge its reliability.
STI protection: Condoms are the best barrier against STIs, including HIV. Other methods generally don't offer STI protection.

Method

Yearly pregnancies (per 100 women) + Effectiveness (%)

Implant (e.g., Implanon): Long-acting, reversible

<1 pregnancies, >99% effective

Hormonal IUD (e.g., Mirena): Reduces bleeding, lasts 5–8 years

<1 pregnancies, >99% effective

Copper IUD (e.g., CuT 380A): Non-hormonal, can increase bleeding

<1 pregnancies, >99% effective

Injectable (e.g., DMPA): Every 3 months, may delay return of fertility

4–6 pregnancies, ~94% effective

Combined oral pills: Daily intake, regulates cycle

7 pregnancies, ~93% effective

Progestin-only pills (Safer in lactation, more sensitive to timing)

7 pregnancies, ~93% effective

Patch: Weekly change

7 pregnancies, ~93% effective

Vaginal ring (e.g., NuvaRing): Monthly use

7 pregnancies, ~93% effective

Male condom: Protects against STIs

13 pregnancies, ~87% effective

Female condom: Some STI protection, less common

21 pregnancies, ~79% effective

Diaphragm with spermicide: Less commonly used

17 pregnancies, ~83% effective

Withdrawal (Coitus interruptus): Highly user-dependent

20 pregnancies, ~80% effective

Fertility awareness methods: Requires regular cycles, high user discipline

15–25 pregnancies, 75–85% effective

Spermicide alone: Often used with barrier methods

21–28 pregnancies, ~70–79% effective

Lactational amenorrhea (LAM): Only if fully breastfeeding + amenorrheic

2 pregnancies (only first 6 months), ~98% effective (with strict use)

Female sterilization (tubectomy): Permanent

<1 pregnancies, >99% effective

Male sterilization (vasectomy): Permanent, slight delay in full effectiveness

<1 pregnancies, >99% effective

2. Lifestyle and preferences

Frequency of sexual activity: Some methods, like IUDs, require less frequent action than others like condoms.
Desire for future children: If you're not planning to have children anytime soon, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods like IUDs or implants might be suitable.
Period symptoms: Certain methods can affect periods, like reducing their heaviness or even causing them to stop. In such cases hormonal contraceptives are better suited.
Ease of use: Consider methods that align with your daily routine and lifestyle.

3. Cost and availability

Cost: The cost of a method, including prescriptions and follow-up appointments, should be considered.
Availability: Determine if the method requires a prescription or provider visit and if it's accessible and affordable.

4. Health and risks:

Side effects: Some methods have potential side effects, such as hormonal fluctuations or increased risk of certain health conditions.
Health conditions: Certain health conditions like heart diseases, hypertension, renal diseases may make certain methods unsuitable. Discuss your medical history with your provider.

5. Partner involvement

Partner preferences: If you're in a relationship, consider your partner's preferences and willingness to use a particular method.
Shared responsibility: Some methods, like condoms, require active participation from both partners.

6. Additional considerations

Religious beliefs and cultural practices: Some methods may not align with certain beliefs or cultural practices.
Emergency contraception: If you suspect your primary method has failed or if you didn't use contraception, emergency contraception options may be available.

The Bottom Line

Choose a contraception method that aligns with your individual needs, lifestyle, and values, while considering effectiveness, convenience, cost, potential risks, and the importance of STI protection. A thorough discussion with a healthcare provider can help you make an informed decision about the best option for you

Medically reviewed by

Dr Poonguzhali Liston

Researched by

Dr Poonguzhali Liston

Written by

Dr Poonguzhali Liston

References