Birth control, also known as contraception, refers to the different methods used to prevent pregnancy. Choosing a method of contraception is a significant and personal health decision. The right choice depends on a wide range of factors, including your individual health status, your lifestyle, your relationship, and your future family planning goals.
With many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. This guide provides a clear, objective, and professional overview of the different categories and types of birth control to help you understand your options before having an informed discussion with a healthcare provider.
13 Types of Birth Control
1. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
An IUD is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a doctor. There are two main types of IUDs available.
- Hormonal IUD: This type of IUD is made of plastic and releases a very small, steady amount of the hormone progestin into the uterus. It works in several ways: it thickens the mucus in the cervix, which makes it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus and reach an egg; it thins the lining of the uterus, making it less likely for a fertilised egg to implant; and in some women, it can also prevent ovulation. Depending on the specific brand and type, a hormonal IUD can be effective for between three and eight years.
- Non-Hormonal (Copper) IUD: The copper IUD is also a plastic, T-shaped device, but it is wrapped in a small amount of copper wire. It contains no hormones. The copper creates an inflammatory reaction in the uterus that is toxic to both sperm and eggs, which prevents fertilisation. It is one of the most effective forms of birth control available and can be left in place for up to 10 years.
2. Contraceptive Implant
The contraceptive implant is a small, thin, and flexible plastic rod, about the size of a matchstick. It is inserted by a doctor just under the skin of your inner, upper arm. The implant continuously releases a low dose of the hormone progestin into your bloodstream. This prevents pregnancy primarily by stopping ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries). It also thickens the cervical mucus to block sperm. The contraceptive implant is effective for up to three years.
3. The Contraceptive Injection
This method involves receiving an injection of the hormone progestin from a doctor or nurse. The injection works mainly by preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. Depending on the type of injection used, you will need to get a new shot every one to three months to remain protected from pregnancy.
4. The Birth Control Pill
The birth control pill is one of the most well-known contraceptive methods. It must be taken orally every day to be effective. There are two main types of pills.
- Combination Pill: This pill contains two hormones: oestrogen and progestin. These hormones work together to prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg each month. They also thicken cervical mucus. Most combination pills come in packs of 21 or 28, and their use involves a planned break each month to allow for a withdrawal bleed, similar to a period.
- Progestin-Only Pill (Mini-Pill): This pill contains only progestin. It is a good option for women who cannot or do not want to take oestrogen due to medical reasons or side effects. The mini-pill works primarily by thickening cervical mucus. It must be taken at the same time every single day to be effective.
5. The Contraceptive Patch
The contraceptive patch is a thin, beige-coloured sticker, similar to a plaster, that you wear on your skin (for example, on your abdomen, buttocks, or upper arm). The patch releases both oestrogen and progestin, which are absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. You apply a new patch once a week for three consecutive weeks, followed by a one-week, patch-free interval.
6. The Vaginal Ring
The vaginal ring is a small, soft, and flexible plastic ring that you insert into your vagina yourself. The ring releases a continuous low dose of oestrogen and progestin. These hormones are absorbed through the vaginal wall into your bloodstream. You leave the ring in place for three weeks, then remove it for one week. After the ring-free week, you insert a new ring.
7. Male Condoms
The male condom is a thin sheath, most commonly made of latex, that is rolled onto an erect penis before sex. It works by collecting semen after ejaculation, preventing it from entering the vagina. Condoms have a unique and crucial dual purpose: in addition to preventing pregnancy, they are also highly effective at reducing the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV. No other method of contraception discussed so far offers this protection. In case the condom breaks, there are things you can do to prevent unwanted effects.
8. Female Condoms (Internal Condoms)
The female condom is a soft, loose-fitting pouch made of a material like nitrile. It has a flexible ring at each end. Before sex, it is inserted into the vagina. The ring at the closed end holds the pouch in place in the vagina, while the ring at the open end rests outside the vaginal opening. Like male condoms, they also provide protection against STDs.
9. Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a shallow, dome-shaped cup made of silicone. Before intercourse, you apply spermicide to it and insert it into your vagina to cover the cervix. It acts as a barrier to sperm. A diaphragm must be fitted by a doctor to ensure you have the correct size. It must be left in place for at least six hours after sex.
10. Tubal Ligation (for Women)
This surgical procedure is often referred to as “getting your tubes tied.” It involves cutting, sealing, or blocking the fallopian tubes. This permanently prevents an egg from travelling from the ovary to the uterus and also stops sperm from reaching the egg. A woman’s menstrual cycle and hormone levels are not affected by this procedure.
11. Vasectomy (for Men)
A vasectomy is a surgical procedure for men. It involves cutting or sealing the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra, called the vas deferens. This means that when a man ejaculates, the semen will not contain any sperm. A vasectomy is a simpler and lower-risk procedure compared to tubal ligation. After the procedure, it takes a few months and a number of ejaculations to clear the remaining sperm from the tubes, so another form of contraception must be used until a doctor confirms that the semen is sperm-free.
12. The Emergency Contraceptive Pill (Morning-After Pill)
There are different types of emergency contraceptive pills available. They work primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation, so that no egg is released to be fertilised. The pills are most effective the sooner they are taken after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, though some can be effective for up to five days.
13. Copper IUD
The insertion of a copper IUD by a healthcare professional is another highly effective method of emergency contraception. If it is inserted within five days of unprotected sex, it can prevent pregnancy. It can then be left in place to provide highly effective, long-term contraception.
How to Choose a Birth Control Method
Making an informed decision about contraception involves balancing several important factors. Before you decide, it is helpful to think about what is most important to you and to discuss these points with a doctor. Key considerations include:
- Effectiveness: How well does the method work at preventing pregnancy? This is often presented as a percentage for “perfect use” versus “typical use.”
- Lifestyle Fit: Does the method suit your daily routine? For example, can you remember to take a pill every day, or would you prefer a long-acting method you do not have to think about?
- Potential Side Effects: All medications and medical devices have potential side effects. It is important to understand the common side effects associated with each method.
- Reversibility: Do you want to have children in the future? Most methods are reversible, but some are permanent.
- Health History: Your overall health and any pre-existing medical conditions can affect which methods are safe for you to use.
- STD Protection: Does the method offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
A consultation with a doctor or gynaecologist is an essential step. They can review your medical history and help you weigh the pros and cons of each option to find the one that is most suitable and safe for you.
Classifications of Birth Control
Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC)
Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods are highly effective, low-maintenance options for pregnancy prevention. Once they are in place, you do not need to think about them on a daily or weekly basis. They are also completely reversible, meaning that when you decide you want to become pregnant, the device can be removed by a healthcare professional, and your fertility will return to its normal state.
Hormonal Birth Control Methods (Short-Acting)
Short-acting hormonal methods are also very effective at preventing pregnancy, but they require you to use them on a more frequent and consistent schedule, such as daily, weekly, or monthly.
Barrier Methods of Contraception
Barrier methods work by creating a physical block that prevents sperm from reaching and fertilising an egg. Their effectiveness is highly dependent on being used correctly every time you have sex.
Permanent Birth Control Methods
Permanent birth control methods, also known as sterilisation, are surgical procedures. They are intended for individuals and couples who are certain that they do not wish to have any, or any more, children in the future. The decision to undergo sterilisation should be considered very carefully, as these procedures are generally not reversible.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception can be used to prevent pregnancy after having unprotected sex or if another method of contraception fails (for example, a condom breaking). It is not designed to be used as a regular form of birth control.
Conclusion On Types of Birth control Methods
There is a wide variety of birth control methods available today, each with its own way of working, effectiveness rate, and things to consider. The best method for you is one that aligns with your personal health, your lifestyle, and your reproductive goals.
It is important to remember that no contraceptive method, apart from abstinence, is 100% effective at preventing pregnancy. Furthermore, condoms are unique in their ability to also provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
Making an informed choice requires a thorough and honest discussion with a healthcare provider who can help guide you to the safest and most suitable option.
Our experienced team of healthcare professionals specialises in diagnosing and treating sexually transmitted diseases. From same-day STD testing to personalised treatment plans, we deliver accurate and reliable care tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Birth Control Methods
What Are the 5 Methods of Birth Control?
There are many more than five methods, but they can be grouped into categories. Five common examples from different categories include: the birth control pill (short-acting hormonal), the IUD (long-acting reversible), the condom (barrier method), tubal ligation (permanent method), and the contraceptive injection (short-acting hormonal).
What Is the Most Effective Method of Birth Control?
The most effective methods of birth control are the long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs)—like the IUD and the implant—and permanent methods like vasectomy and tubal ligation. These methods are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy because they remove the potential for human error.
What Is the Safest Form of Birth Control?
“Safest” can mean different things. In terms of having the fewest health risks or side effects for most people, barrier methods like condoms are very safe as they are non-hormonal and non-invasive. However, all modern contraceptive methods approved by health authorities are considered safe for most people when used correctly and under medical guidance. A doctor can determine the safest option based on your personal medical history.
How Do I Choose the Right Birth Control?
Choosing the right birth control involves discussing your health, lifestyle, and future plans with a doctor. You should consider factors like effectiveness, how easy the method is to use, potential side effects, and whether you need protection from STDs. Your doctor can help you weigh these factors to find the best fit for you.
What Birth Control Has the Least Side Effects?
Side effects are highly individual. Non-hormonal methods, such as the copper IUD and barrier methods like condoms, do not have hormonal side effects (like mood changes or nausea). However, the copper IUD can sometimes cause heavier periods and more cramping. The method with the least side effects for you personally can only be determined through discussion with a doctor and sometimes by trying a method.
Can You Still Get Pregnant On Birth Control?
Yes, it is possible to get pregnant on any type of birth control, although the chances are very small with the most effective methods. Effectiveness rates are often lower with “typical use” compared to “perfect use” because of human error, such as forgetting to take a pill or not using a condom correctly. The only 100% effective way to prevent pregnancy is to not have sex (abstinence).
