How to Choose One For Yourself?
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:
Effectiveness:
1. 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. 2. STI protection: Condoms are the best barrier against STIs, including HIV. Other methods generally don't offer STI protection.
Method
Pregnancies per 100 Women per Year
Effectiveness (%)
Comments
Implant (e.g., Implanon)
<1
>99%
Long-acting, reversible
IUD (Hormonal - e.g., Mirena)
<1
>99%
Reduces bleeding, lasts 5–8 years
IUD (Copper - e.g., CuT 380A)
<1
>99%
Non-hormonal, can increase bleeding
Injectable (e.g., DMPA)
4–6
~94%
Every 3 months, may delay return of fertility
Combined Oral Pills
7
~93%
Daily intake, regulates cycle
Progestin-only Pills
7
~93%
Safer in lactation, more sensitive to timing
Patch
7
~93%
Weekly change
Vaginal Ring (e.g., NuvaRing)
7
~93%
Monthly use
Male Condom
13
~87%
Protects against STIs
Female Condom
21
~79%
Some STI protection, less common
Diaphragm with spermicide
17
~83%
Less commonly used
Withdrawal (Coitus interruptus)
20
~80%
Highly user-dependent
Fertility Awareness Methods
15–25
75–85%
Requires regular cycles, high user discipline
Spermicide Alone
21–28
~70–79%
Often used with barrier methods
Lactational Amenorrhea (LAM)
2 (only first 6 months)
~98% (with strict use)
Only if fully breastfeeding + amenorrheic
Female Sterilization (Tubectomy)
<1
>99%
Permanent
Male Sterilization (Vasectomy)
<1
>99%
Permanent, slight delay in full effectiveness
Lifestyle and preferences:
1. Frequency of sexual activity: Some methods, like IUDs, require less frequent action than others like condoms. 2. 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. 3. 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.
Cost and availability:
1. Cost: The cost of a method, including prescriptions and follow-up appointments, should be considered. 2. Availability: Determine if the method requires a prescription or provider visit and if it's accessible and affordable.
Health and risks:
1. Side effects: Some methods have potential side effects, such as hormonal fluctuations or increased risk of certain health conditions. 2. Health conditions: Certain health conditions like heart diseases, hypertension, renal diseases may make certain methods unsuitable. Discuss your medical history with your provider .
Partner involvement:
1. Partner preferences: If you're in a relationship, consider your partner's preferences and willingness to use a particular method. 2. Shared responsibility: Some methods, like condoms, require active participation from both partners.
Additional considerations:
1. Religious beliefs and cultural practices: Some methods may not align with certain beliefs or cultural practices. 2. Emergency contraception: If you suspect your primary method has failed or if you didn't use contraception, emergency contraception options may be available.
Summary:
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
Last updated
Was this helpful?