Types of birth control: how to choose

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Hormonal contraceptives use the hormones estrogen and progestin to prevent you from ovulating (releasing an egg). Hormonal contraceptives thicken cervical mucus, preventing sperm from moving up into the cervix. They are available in the form of pills, patches, injections and implants.

Although generally safe, “the estrogens in some hormonal contraceptives may increase the risk of blood clots, high blood pressure, and stroke in people with risk factors like smoking and being over 35,” says Dr. Cheng.

Contraceptive pill

Birth control pills fall into two main categories: combination pills containing both estrogen and progestin and progestin-only pills. You take them both daily.

Combination pills, also known as the Pill, are the most common type of birth control pill.

Your healthcare professional can help you determine which type of birth control pill is right for you.

Benefits The pill can help regulate your menstrual cycle, reduce cramps, and may even clear up acne. Its effectiveness is around 93% when used correctly.

Disadvantages It offers no protection against STIs and you must commit to taking it at around the same time each day.

Contraceptive patches

Like the pill, the patches contain hormones that stop you from ovulating, except you don’t need to remember to take a pill every day.

You wear patches on your arms, stomach, or butt, where they release hormones through your skin. Throughout a menstrual cycle, you apply a new patch every week for three weeks, then you get your period in the fourth week.

Benefits They are 93% effective, you don’t need to remember to take a pill, and they can help regulate your cycle.

Disadvantages They do not prevent STIs and you should remember to fill your prescription every month.

Birth control rings

Birth control rings are small, flexible rings that fit inside your vagina and continually release hormones. You take them out the week of your period.

Benefits They are 93% effective and can be more convenient than the pill, with the same effect on your cycle.

Disadvantages They do not protect against STIs and products containing silicone or oil can damage them.

Birth control shots

The Depo-Provera vaccine, often called “Depo”, is a progestin injection given once every three months. This is a private method of birth control, so others will not know that you are using birth control.

Benefits It’s 96% effective, private, and may be more convenient than a pill or device. It only contains progestin, which may make it safer for some people.

Disadvantages The vaccine requires a medical visit four times a year and does not protect against STIs.

Contraceptive implants

An implant is a thin rod inserted under the skin of your upper arm that releases progestin for up to five years, protecting you from pregnancy. It is not permanent and your doctor can remove it if you decide to have it removed.

Implants are another form of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) that can be convenient and effective for many users.

Benefits They are 99% effective at preventing pregnancy and last up to 5 years. Because they are progestin-only, they may be safer for some people.

Swindle They do not prevent STIs and you may not want a device implanted in your body.

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