Birth Control Explained: 13 Options, Their Pros & Cons, and How to Choose

Choosing the right birth control method can make sex feel less stressful and give you greater control over your reproductive health. Whether you want to avoid pregnancy for now, manage uncomfortable periods, or make a long-term family-planning decision, understanding your options is the first step.

The challenge is that birth control isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some methods require a daily routine, while others work for years without much maintenance. Some contain hormones, others don’t, and only certain methods also help protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

So, how do you know which option is right for you?

This guide explores 13 common birth control methods, their effectiveness, the advantages and disadvantages of hormonal contraception, and practical ways to choose an option that fits your body, health, lifestyle, and future plans.

What Is Birth Control and How Does It Work?

Birth control, also called contraception, refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy. Depending on the method, contraception may stop ovulation, prevent sperm from reaching an egg, make fertilisation less likely, or permanently prevent sperm and eggs from meeting.

Birth control methods generally fall into four categories:

• Hormonal contraception: Includes birth control pills, injections, implants, patches, and vaginal rings.
• Barrier contraception: Includes external condoms, internal condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps.
• Long-acting reversible contraception: Includes hormonal and copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive implants.
• Permanent contraception: Includes vasectomy and female sterilisation.

Fertility-awareness methods and emergency contraception are additional options that serve different purposes.

It’s important to understand that preventing pregnancy and preventing STIs are two different things. Most contraceptive methods do not protect against STIs. External and internal condoms can reduce the risk of many sexually transmitted infections when used correctly and consistently.

How Effective Is Birth Control?

Birth control effectiveness depends on the method and how consistently you use it. A method that works extremely well when used perfectly may be less effective in everyday life if you forget a pill, use a condom incorrectly, or miss an injection appointment.

The following figures are approximate first-year pregnancy-prevention rates with typical use, based on commonly cited UK guidance. Actual rates may vary by product and population.

Birth control method	Approximate effectiveness with typical use
Contraceptive implant	Over 99%
Hormonal IUD	Over 99%
Copper IUD	Over 99%
Contraceptive injection	About 94%
Combined pill	About 91%
Progestogen-only pill	About 91%
Contraceptive patch	About 91%
Vaginal ring	About 91%
External condom	About 82%
Internal condom	About 79%
Natural family planning	About 76% on average
Diaphragm or cervical cap	Effectiveness varies by method and use

These figures are estimates, not guarantees. Permanent contraception is also highly effective, although pregnancy can rarely occur after vasectomy or female sterilisation.

The main takeaway? A method that suits your daily habits may be more effective for you than one that is theoretically excellent but difficult to use consistently.

13 Common Birth Control Methods You Should Know About

1. Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are oral contraceptives taken regularly to prevent pregnancy. They’re among the most familiar hormonal birth control options and are available in different formulations.

There are two main types.

Combined oral contraceptive pills contain synthetic forms of oestrogen and progestogen. They mainly prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation. They also change cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg.

Progestogen-only pills, often called mini-pills, contain progestogen without oestrogen. Depending on the formulation, they prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus.

The two types have different instructions, contraindications, and timing requirements. It’s important to follow the directions for your specific pill.

Potential advantages:

• May make periods lighter, more predictable, or less painful.
• Can help some people manage acne or symptoms associated with certain menstrual conditions.
• Are reversible, with fertility generally returning after discontinuation.

Potential disadvantages:

• Require regular use, and missed pills can reduce effectiveness.
• May cause headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, or changes in bleeding.
• Combined pills may be unsuitable for people with certain medical conditions or clotting risks.

Pills don’t protect against STIs. A healthcare professional can help determine which formulation, if any, is suitable for you.

2. Progestogen-Only Mini-Pill

The mini-pill deserves separate consideration because it may suit people who cannot use oestrogen-containing contraception.

It is taken every day, and the acceptable delay between doses depends on the specific formulation. Some mini-pills have a narrow timing window, so checking the instructions matters.

The mini-pill may be an option for some people who are breastfeeding or who have medical reasons to avoid oestrogen. However, suitability depends on individual circumstances.

What to consider: Irregular bleeding is common with progestogen-only pills. Some people have lighter periods, while others experience spotting or no periods. The mini-pill isn’t automatically the safest choice for everyone, so discuss your health history and other medicines with a clinician.

3. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

An IUD is a small device placed inside the uterus by a trained healthcare professional. It’s a long-acting, reversible form of contraception that doesn’t require you to remember a pill every day.

There are two main types.

Copper IUD: This non-hormonal device releases copper, which interferes with sperm and prevents fertilisation. Depending on the device, it can provide protection for many years and can also be used as emergency contraception when inserted within the appropriate time window.

Hormonal IUD: This device releases a small amount of progestogen. It thickens cervical mucus and may also suppress ovulation in some users, depending on the product.

Potential advantages:

• Both types are highly effective.
• They require little ongoing maintenance once inserted.
• Pregnancy prevention is reversible when the device is removed.

Potential disadvantages:

• Insertion can cause discomfort or cramping.
• Copper IUDs may make periods heavier or more painful.
• Hormonal IUDs can cause irregular bleeding, especially initially.

An IUD does not protect against STIs. The duration of protection depends on the particular device, so don’t assume every IUD lasts the same number of years.

4. External Condoms

External condoms, commonly called male condoms, are worn over an erect penis during sexual activity. They create a physical barrier that helps prevent semen from entering a partner’s body.

Condoms are widely available and don’t contain contraceptive hormones. Latex condoms are common, and non-latex alternatives are available for people with latex allergies.

Potential advantages:

• Help reduce the risk of pregnancy and many STIs.
• Are used only when needed.
• Don’t affect ovulation or menstrual hormones.

Potential disadvantages:

• Must be used correctly every time.
• Can break, slip, or be damaged if stored or handled improperly.
• Some people experience irritation or sensitivity to latex or certain lubricants.

Use a new condom for each act of sex. Check the expiry date, put it on before genital contact that could expose either partner to sexual fluids, and use compatible lubricant when needed. Oil-based lubricants can damage latex condoms.

5. Internal Condoms

Internal condoms, sometimes called female condoms, are flexible pouches placed inside the vagina before sex. They create a barrier that helps stop sperm from entering the reproductive tract.

They can give the person using the condom more control over barrier protection and don’t rely on a partner wearing an external condom.

Potential advantages:

• Provide a non-hormonal option.
• Can help reduce the risk of pregnancy and some STIs.
• Can be inserted before sex, following the product instructions.

Potential disadvantages:

• May require practice to insert correctly.
• Can move or be used incorrectly.
• May be less readily available than external condoms.

Don’t use an internal condom and an external condom together. Friction between the two can cause them to move or tear.

6. Diaphragms and Cervical Caps

A diaphragm or cervical cap is a reusable barrier device inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix. It helps prevent sperm from entering the uterus and is generally used with spermicide according to the product instructions.

Unlike hormonal contraception, these devices don’t release hormones into the body.

Potential advantages:

• Hormone-free.
• Can be used only when needed.
• Reusable options may be economical over time.

Potential disadvantages:

• Must be positioned correctly.
• Are less effective with typical use than long-acting methods.
• May cause irritation, and spermicide can produce side effects in some people.

A healthcare professional can explain which device is suitable and how to use it. Follow the instructions about when to insert and remove it, including how long it must remain in place after sex.

7. Contraceptive Patch

The contraceptive patch is a small adhesive patch worn on the skin. It releases oestrogen and progestogen through the skin to prevent pregnancy, primarily by stopping ovulation.

Depending on the product, a patch is generally changed on a weekly schedule, followed by a patch-free interval or another prescribed schedule.

Potential advantages:

• Doesn’t require taking a pill every day.
• May make periods lighter or more predictable.
• May help reduce menstrual cramps for some users.

Potential disadvantages:

• Can cause skin irritation or become detached.
• May cause headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, or changes in bleeding.
• Contains oestrogen and may not be appropriate for people with certain health risks.

The patch’s effectiveness can be affected if it isn’t changed according to the instructions. Ask a clinician whether your medical history makes combined hormonal contraception appropriate.

8. Vaginal Contraceptive Ring

A vaginal ring is a flexible ring placed inside the vagina. Many versions release oestrogen and progestogen, preventing pregnancy mainly by stopping ovulation.

The schedule depends on the specific ring. Some are used for three weeks followed by a ring-free interval, while other products have different instructions.

Potential advantages:

• Avoids the need to remember a daily pill.
• May help make periods more predictable.
• Is reversible and can be discontinued.

Potential disadvantages:

• Requires correct insertion and replacement.
• Can cause vaginal discomfort, discharge, headaches, or nausea.
• Oestrogen-containing rings may be unsuitable for people with certain medical conditions.

A vaginal ring doesn’t protect against STIs. Read the instructions for your specific product and ask a healthcare professional if it comes out or isn’t replaced on schedule.

9. Contraceptive Injection

The contraceptive injection delivers a progestogen hormone that prevents pregnancy, mainly by suppressing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus.

Depending on the formulation and local guidance, injections are generally repeated every few months. The exact schedule matters because protection can decrease if a follow-up dose is late.

Potential advantages:

• Doesn’t require daily action.
• Is discreet and effective when injections are received on schedule.
• May reduce period pain or eventually stop periods in some users.

Potential disadvantages:

• Irregular bleeding is common, particularly at first.
• Some users experience headaches or weight changes.
• Return to fertility may take longer after stopping than with some other methods.

The injection may affect bone mineral density during use, and suitability depends on individual risk factors. Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks with a clinician before choosing it.

10. Contraceptive Implant

A contraceptive implant is a small, flexible rod placed under the skin of the upper arm by a trained healthcare professional. It releases progestogen and provides highly effective pregnancy prevention for several years, depending on the product.

Once inserted, it doesn’t require daily attention.

Potential advantages:

• Over 99% effective with typical use.
• Long-lasting and reversible.
• Doesn’t contain oestrogen.

Potential disadvantages:

• Irregular bleeding is common and may continue.
• Insertion and removal require a trained professional.
• Some medicines can interfere with its effectiveness.

The implant is an option for people who want reliable contraception without a daily routine. However, it doesn’t protect against STIs, and its bleeding pattern can be unpredictable.

11. Contraceptive Sponge and Spermicides

The contraceptive sponge is a soft device placed inside the vagina to cover the cervix. It contains spermicide, which reduces sperm activity.

Spermicides are also available separately in forms such as gels, creams, films, or suppositories. They are intended to be used according to their specific instructions and may be combined with certain barrier methods.

Potential advantages:

• Don’t use contraceptive hormones.
• Can be used when needed rather than daily.
• Some products are available without a prescription, depending on the country.

Potential disadvantages:

• Are less reliable with typical use than implants or IUDs.
• Must be used correctly for every relevant sexual encounter.
• May irritate vaginal tissue.

Some spermicides contain nonoxynol-9, which can irritate tissue with frequent use. It doesn’t protect against STIs and shouldn’t be relied upon for that purpose.

12. Fertility Awareness and Natural Family Planning

Fertility-awareness methods involve tracking the menstrual cycle and signs of fertility to estimate when pregnancy is more likely. These signs may include cycle dates, cervical mucus, and basal body temperature.

To avoid pregnancy, users abstain from sex or use a barrier method during fertile days, following the chosen method’s rules.

Potential advantages:

• Doesn’t require hormones or medical devices.
• Can help people understand their menstrual cycles.
• May suit people who are comfortable tracking fertility signs consistently.

Potential disadvantages:

• Requires education, tracking, and daily commitment.
• Effectiveness varies significantly by method and how carefully it’s followed.
• Illness, irregular cycles, and other factors can make fertile days harder to estimate.

Fertility-awareness methods aren’t simply a matter of counting a few days on a calendar. Sperm can survive for several days in the reproductive tract, and ovulation timing can change. If avoiding pregnancy is a high priority, discuss more reliable options with a healthcare professional.

Withdrawal, sometimes called the pull-out method, is another approach, but it is less reliable than many established contraceptive methods with typical use. It also doesn’t protect against STIs.

13. Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception can reduce the chance of pregnancy after sex without contraception or when a method fails, such as when a condom breaks or pills are missed.

It isn’t intended to replace regular contraception, but it can be an important backup option.

The main options include:

Emergency contraceptive pills: Depending on the type, these may be used within three to five days after sex. They generally work by delaying or preventing ovulation. Taking them as soon as possible is important.

Copper IUD: A copper IUD inserted by a trained professional within the recommended time window is the most effective form of emergency contraception and can remain in place for ongoing pregnancy prevention.

Emergency contraception doesn’t end an established pregnancy. It also doesn’t protect against STIs or provide ongoing protection for sex later in the cycle.

If you need emergency contraception, contact a pharmacist or healthcare professional promptly. They can help you choose the appropriate option based on timing, medicines you take, and other relevant factors.

Permanent Birth Control Methods

Some people are certain they don’t want biological children in the future. In those circumstances, permanent contraception may be worth discussing with a qualified healthcare professional.

Female Sterilisation

Female sterilisation involves surgery to block or remove the fallopian tubes so sperm and egg cannot meet. It’s intended to be permanent, and reversal isn’t guaranteed.

The procedure has surgical risks and requires informed consent. Consider whether a long-acting reversible method could meet your needs before deciding on permanent contraception.

Vasectomy

A vasectomy is a procedure that blocks the tubes carrying sperm into semen. It is intended to be permanent and is usually performed as an outpatient procedure.

A vasectomy doesn’t provide immediate protection. Another contraceptive method is needed until a follow-up semen test confirms that the procedure has worked.

Neither vasectomy nor female sterilisation protects against STIs.

25 Pros and Cons of Birth Control

Birth control can offer more than pregnancy prevention, but every method has trade-offs. These 25 points cover benefits and drawbacks to consider before making a decision.

13 Potential Benefits of Birth Control

1. Reduces the chance of unintended pregnancy.
The main purpose of contraception is to help you avoid pregnancy when you’re not ready or don’t wish to become pregnant.

2. Offers more control over family planning.
You can choose a method that fits your current circumstances and future goals.

3. Provides highly effective options.
Implants and IUDs are over 99% effective with typical use.

4. Includes options without hormones.
Copper IUDs, condoms, diaphragms, and fertility-awareness methods offer alternatives to hormonal contraception.

5. Can make periods lighter.
Some hormonal methods, including certain pills and hormonal IUDs, can reduce menstrual bleeding.

6. May reduce menstrual cramps.
Some hormonal contraceptives help people who experience painful periods.

7. Can help manage certain menstrual conditions.
Specific hormonal methods may be used to manage symptoms associated with conditions such as endometriosis, depending on individual needs.

8. Offers convenience.
Long-acting methods can provide protection for years without daily or weekly maintenance.

9. Provides reversible choices.
Most methods can be stopped or removed if your plans change, although the return of fertility varies by method.

10. Can offer privacy.
Some methods are less noticeable to a partner or other people than methods that must be used during sex.

11. Gives you options based on your lifestyle.
Daily pills, occasional barrier methods, and long-acting devices suit different routines and preferences.

12. Condoms help reduce STI risk.
When used correctly and consistently, condoms can reduce the risk of many STIs as well as pregnancy.

13. Can support more relaxed sexual decision-making.
Choosing contraception together can reduce uncertainty and help partners communicate about pregnancy prevention and sexual health.

12 Potential Drawbacks of Birth Control

14. No method is completely effective in every circumstance.
Pregnancy can rarely occur even when contraception is used.

15. Some methods require a strict routine.
Pills, patches, rings, and injections must be used or renewed according to their schedules.

16. Hormonal contraception can change bleeding patterns.
Spotting, irregular periods, lighter bleeding, or absent periods may occur.

17. Side effects are possible.
Some users experience headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, or other symptoms.

18. Certain methods carry medical risks.
Oestrogen-containing contraception may increase the risk of blood clots in some people. Medical history matters when selecting a method.

19. Some methods require a procedure.
IUDs and implants need professional insertion, while permanent methods involve surgery.

20. Insertion may be uncomfortable.
Some people experience pain or cramping during IUD insertion or soreness after an implant procedure.

21. Some methods can affect bleeding for months.
Irregular bleeding may continue for a while with an implant, injection, or hormonal IUD.

22. Fertility may not return immediately after every method.
After stopping the contraceptive injection, it can take longer for fertility to return than after some other methods.

23. Costs and availability vary.
The price of contraception depends on the country, healthcare system, product, and whether consultations or procedures are covered.

24. Most methods don’t prevent STIs.
An IUD, pill, implant, or injection doesn’t replace condoms when STI protection is needed.

25. Finding the right option may take time.
A method that suits one person may cause side effects or be impractical for another. You may need to try an alternative with professional guidance.

These pros and cons aren’t universal. Your own experience will depend on the method, your health, and your preferences.

How Do You Choose the Best Birth Control Method?

The best birth control method is one that is medically suitable, fits your routine, and meets your pregnancy-prevention goals. Consider these factors before making your choice.

1. Decide How Important Maximum Effectiveness Is to You

If avoiding pregnancy is a high priority, consider methods with very low typical-use failure rates, such as an implant or IUD.

If you prefer condoms or pills, think about whether you can use them consistently and correctly. You can also discuss using condoms alongside another contraceptive method.

2. Consider Whether You Want Hormones

Some people prefer hormonal contraception because it may improve menstrual symptoms. Others would rather avoid hormones.

If you prefer a non-hormonal option, ask about copper IUDs and barrier methods. Remember that non-hormonal doesn’t automatically mean more effective or suitable for every person.

3. Think About Your Daily Routine

Would you remember a pill every day? Would a weekly patch or a longer-acting method fit your lifestyle better?

Be realistic about what you can maintain. Convenience is an important part of effectiveness because a method works best when it’s used as directed.

4. Review Your Medical History

Your age, smoking status, blood pressure, migraine history, medications, and personal or family medical history may influence which methods are appropriate.

For example, combined hormonal contraception isn’t suitable for everyone, particularly people with certain clotting risks. Don’t start prescription hormonal contraception based solely on a friend’s experience.

5. Decide Whether You Want Children Later

If you may want children in the future, reversible methods such as pills, implants, and IUDs may suit your plans.

If you’re certain you don’t want future pregnancies, discuss permanent contraception as well as highly effective reversible alternatives. A decision about permanent contraception deserves careful consideration.

6. Consider Your Periods and Other Symptoms

If you have heavy bleeding, painful periods, or symptoms associated with a menstrual condition, tell your healthcare professional. Some contraceptive methods may help manage these symptoms, while others can make bleeding heavier or less predictable.

7. Think About STI Protection

If STI exposure is possible, condoms remain important even if you’re using another form of birth control.

Consider STI testing based on your circumstances, and discuss prevention with a healthcare professional. Pregnancy prevention and infection prevention require separate consideration.

8. Ask About Cost and Access

Consider the total cost, including consultations, insertion or removal, repeat prescriptions, and follow-up visits. An affordable method that you can use consistently may be more practical than a costly option that doesn’t fit your needs.

Availability and eligibility vary by location, so ask a local healthcare provider or pharmacist about your options.

What Should You Know Before Starting Hormonal Birth Control?

Hormonal contraception can be safe and effective for many people, but it isn’t suitable for everyone. Before starting a pill, patch, ring, injection, implant, or hormonal IUD, consider the following.

• Discuss your health history: Mention migraines, blood pressure problems, previous blood clots, smoking, and any other relevant conditions.
• Review your medications: Some medicines and supplements can reduce the effectiveness of certain hormonal methods.
• Understand possible side effects: Bleeding changes, headaches, nausea, and breast tenderness can occur, although experiences vary.
• Follow the product instructions: Find out when the method starts protecting against pregnancy and whether you need backup contraception initially.
• Know what to do after a missed dose: Instructions differ by method and product. Ask a pharmacist or clinician what to do if you miss a pill, have a late injection, or experience a condom failure.
• Ask about warning signs: Seek urgent medical attention for symptoms such as sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, or one-sided leg swelling, particularly if you use an oestrogen-containing method.

If side effects are difficult to manage, you don’t necessarily have to give up on contraception altogether. A different method may suit you better.

Frequently Asked Questions About Birth Control

1. What is the most effective birth control method?

Contraceptive implants and both hormonal and copper IUDs are among the most effective reversible methods. They are over 99% effective with typical use. The best choice still depends on your medical suitability and preferences.

2. Which birth control method has the fewest side effects?

There isn’t one method with the fewest side effects for everyone. Condoms don’t cause hormonal side effects, while copper IUDs are hormone-free but can make periods heavier. Your health and individual response will influence which option is most comfortable.

3. Can birth control pills prevent STIs?

No. Birth control pills help prevent pregnancy but do not protect against STIs. Condoms can reduce the risk of many STIs when used correctly and consistently.

4. Can I get pregnant while taking birth control pills?

Yes, although the chance is low when pills are taken correctly. Missing pills, certain drug interactions, and incorrect use can reduce effectiveness. Follow the instructions for your specific pill.

5. Is it safe to use condoms with another birth control method?

Yes. Using condoms alongside another method can provide additional pregnancy protection and help reduce STI risk. This is often called dual protection.

6. Do hormonal birth control methods cause weight gain?

Some users report weight changes, but the evidence differs by method. Weight gain is a recognised concern with the contraceptive injection in particular. Discuss any concerns with a healthcare professional rather than assuming every hormonal method has the same effect.

7. Can birth control help with acne?

Some combined oral contraceptive pills can improve acne in certain people. Other contraceptives may have different effects, so the choice should take your health and treatment goals into account.

8. What happens if a condom breaks?

Consider emergency contraception as soon as possible if pregnancy is a concern. Depending on the method, emergency contraception may be available for up to five days after sex. You may also need STI advice or testing, depending on the circumstances.

9. Is emergency contraception the same as an abortion pill?

No. Emergency contraception is intended to prevent pregnancy, usually by delaying or preventing ovulation. It does not terminate an established pregnancy.

10. Can I use birth control while breastfeeding?

Some methods may be suitable while breastfeeding, but timing after childbirth and individual circumstances matter. Ask a healthcare professional which options are appropriate for you.

11. Does birth control affect future fertility?

Most reversible contraceptive methods do not cause permanent infertility. Fertility usually returns after stopping or removing them, although the return can take longer after some methods, particularly the injection.

12. Is withdrawal an effective method of contraception?

Withdrawal is less reliable with typical use than many other contraceptive methods. It also offers no protection against STIs. If avoiding pregnancy is important, consider a more reliable method or combine appropriate methods.

13. Can I switch from one birth control method to another?

Yes. Many people switch because of side effects, convenience, cost, or changing pregnancy plans. Ask a healthcare professional how to make the change without leaving a gap in pregnancy protection.

14. Do I need a doctor’s appointment to choose birth control?

Some methods require a prescription, examination, or professional insertion, while others may be available directly from pharmacies or shops depending on where you live. A healthcare professional can help you compare options and identify any medical concerns.

15. How do I know which birth control method is right for me?

Consider effectiveness, side effects, medical history, cost, STI protection, convenience, and whether you want children in the future. A healthcare professional can help you make an informed decision based on your needs.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Birth Control

There are many ways to prevent pregnancy, from condoms and pills to implants, IUDs, and permanent contraception. Each option has its own benefits, limitations, and practical requirements.

The right choice isn’t necessarily the most expensive method or the one your friends use. It’s the method that fits your health, preferences, lifestyle, and reproductive goals.

Take time to compare your options, ask questions, and discuss any concerns with a qualified healthcare professional. And remember: unless you’re using a method that also offers STI protection, pregnancy prevention alone isn’t enough to protect your sexual health.

With the right information and a method that works for you, you can make more confident decisions about contraception and your future.