Although some birth control options are more effective than others, no birth control method (except for abstinence) is 100% effective. There are many factors which may influence the effectiveness of the various birth control options available. Other considerations regarding contraception are lifestyle and personal factors to consider when determining the best method for you. We are all individuals and have our own unique needs, so remember to discuss these issues with your healthcare provider; together, you can make an informed decision about contraception and can choose a method that you feel comfortable with.
Effectiveness
Factors that may influence the effectiveness of available contraceptives include:
Consider how well the method prevents pregnancy. Ask yourself: would you perceive an unplanned pregnancy as potentially devastating? If so, you may wish to choose a more effective method. If your intention is just to postpone pregnancy (but would embrace it should it happen), you may be more comfortable with a less effective method. Being familiar with how conception occurs can help you understand contraception and maximize its effectiveness.
- The user's motivation
- Accessibility
- Fertility levels
- Properly following directions
Consider how well the method prevents pregnancy. Ask yourself: would you perceive an unplanned pregnancy as potentially devastating? If so, you may wish to choose a more effective method. If your intention is just to postpone pregnancy (but would embrace it should it happen), you may be more comfortable with a less effective method. Being familiar with how conception occurs can help you understand contraception and maximize its effectiveness.
Researching Failure Rates
When researching, you will often see the “typical user rate”. This takes into account that contraceptives are not always used as they should be. People may:
The typical rate of failure is generally higher than the failure rate of the method if used perfectly. In general, methods that require less for you to do (shot vs. the condom) tend to have lower failure rates. The more you know about the correct way to use birth control, the more control you’ll have over deciding if and when you want to become pregnant.
- Not use it consistently
- May forget it at times, or
- May be taking a medication that lowers the effectiveness
The typical rate of failure is generally higher than the failure rate of the method if used perfectly. In general, methods that require less for you to do (shot vs. the condom) tend to have lower failure rates. The more you know about the correct way to use birth control, the more control you’ll have over deciding if and when you want to become pregnant.
Health Risks and Side Effects
Inquire about potential health risks associated with the various birth control options. This could include factors such as your age or whether or not you smoke. Birth control pills are usually not recommended for women who are older than 35 and smoke. Consider if you are allergic to latex as several of the barrier methods (like condoms) are made up of this material. Also consider potential side effects that may accompany various methods. You can ask your healthcare provider to explain these to you.
Does it Fit into Your Lifestyle?
- Are you looking for something convenient (like the Depo-Provera shot)?
- What are your days like?
- Consider whether you will be able use a method, like the pill , that requires you to reliably take it at roughly the same time each day.
Women who have irregular schedules or who have difficulty remembering to take medication may not find compatibility with that method.
What Are Your Intentions?
Are you in a stable, single-partner sexual relationship, have had at least one child, and are just wishing to put off having additional children for a while? If so, a Mirena IUD or ParaGard IUD that may fit your needs. Try to determine if you are looking for more of a temporary method, something long-term, or whether it is your desire to consider a permanent contraceptive method. People choose to use birth control for many different reasons. Begin by asking yourself – what are my reasons for wanting to use contraception?
Your Comfort Level
It is important to be honest with yourself – especially women – about your comfort level. Do you feel comfortable touching your body? There are many contraceptive methods, such as a diaphragm and cervical cap ; however, these require you to insert them into and then take them out from your body.
Your Sexual Behavior
It is also important to keep in mind who you will be engaging in intercourse with while on birth control.
Many of the available contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted infections or HIV.
- Are you in a serious, monogamous relationship?
- Is there a threat of a sexually transmitted infection because you are not in a committed relationship?
- Do you have multiple partners?
Many of the available contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted infections or HIV.
Protection Against Sexually Transmitted Infections
Many people believe that using various birth control methods will also protect against sexually transmitted infections, but that is not the case. Most contraceptives will not protect you against sexually transmitted infections or HIV. Condoms, particularly when used with spermicides, typically offer the greatest protection from contracting many of these potential infections.
