Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsBirth Control MethodsSingle-Use ContraceptivesScheduled ContraceptivesLow-Maintenance ContraceptivesPermanent ContraceptivesVasectomyChoosing the Best Birth ControlFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Birth Control Methods
Single-Use Contraceptives
Scheduled Contraceptives
Low-Maintenance Contraceptives
Permanent Contraceptives
Vasectomy
Choosing the Best Birth Control
Frequently Asked Questions
Birth controlis not one size fits all. Some methods are more effective than others, but finding a method that fits with your budget, goals, and lifestyle is also important.
To find which birth control method is best for you, learn about how the different methods work, their effectiveness, the cost, and some of the pros and cons of each option.
PeopleImages / Getty Images
Birth control methods can be broken down into categories based on their mode of use, including:
Most birth control methods have two effectiveness rates. The first is how effective it is at preventing pregnancy when used exactly as intended, under ideal conditions. The second is howeffective it is with typical use, taking into account human error and other factors that may lower the real-life effectiveness.
Contraception Does Not Mean Protection from STIsWith the exception of internal and external condoms, contraceptive methods do not protect againstsexually transmitted infections (STIs).If protection from STIs are needed in addition to the prevention of pregnancy, barrier methods (condoms) must be used, and may be combined with other forms of birth control.Only latex and plastic condoms protect against STIs. Lambskin condoms help prevent pregnancy, but do not protect against STIs.
Contraception Does Not Mean Protection from STIs
With the exception of internal and external condoms, contraceptive methods do not protect againstsexually transmitted infections (STIs).If protection from STIs are needed in addition to the prevention of pregnancy, barrier methods (condoms) must be used, and may be combined with other forms of birth control.Only latex and plastic condoms protect against STIs. Lambskin condoms help prevent pregnancy, but do not protect against STIs.
With the exception of internal and external condoms, contraceptive methods do not protect againstsexually transmitted infections (STIs).
If protection from STIs are needed in addition to the prevention of pregnancy, barrier methods (condoms) must be used, and may be combined with other forms of birth control.
Only latex and plastic condoms protect against STIs. Lambskin condoms help prevent pregnancy, but do not protect against STIs.
Condoms
External condomsare thin pouches that are slipped on over the erect penis right before intercourse. They are usually made of latex, but plastic condoms and lambskin condoms are available for people who are allergic to latex.
Internal condomsare thin pouches that create a barrier between the penis and the vagina. Internal condoms go inside the vagina (or anus) instead of on the penis.
Both condoms prevent skin-to-skin contact between the penis and the partner’s skin. They also “catch” pre-ejaculate and ejaculate (semen), preventing sperm from reaching the egg.
How Effective Is It?
External condoms ideal use: 98% effective
Typical use: About 85% effective
Internal condoms ideal use: 95% effective
Typical use: About 79% effective
How Much Does It Cost?
External condoms cost about $2–$6 for a box of three. Packs of 12 or more often work out to about $1 per condom. Internal condoms cost $2–$3 each. Some places such as sexual health clinics will give out condoms for free.
Pros
Cons
Sponge
Thebirth control spongeis a small, round, squishy plastic sponge that is placed deep inside the vagina (to cover the cervix) before sex. The sponge blocks sperm from entering the uterus. It contains spermicide, which slows down sperm.
Ideal use: About 91% effective. About 80% effective if you have given birth.
Typical use: About 88% effective. About 76% effective if you have given birth.
A pack of three sponges costs about $15.
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is used with spermicide, which slows sperm and increases the effectiveness of the diaphragm. Spermicide also helps keep the diaphragm in place.
Ideal use (with spermicide): 94% effective
Typical use (with spermicide): About 88% effective
Spermicide costs about $5–$15 a tube or kit.
Cervical Cap
Acervical capis a small silicone cup that is inserted into the vagina before sex. It is similar to a diaphragm but smaller and shaped differently.It helps prevent sperm from meeting the egg. It must be used with spermicide to be at its most effective.
Cervical caps come in three sizes: Small (for people who have never been pregnant), medium (for those who have had an abortion, miscarriage, or cesarean delivery), and large (for people who’ve given birth vaginally)
(With spermicide)
People who’ve never given birth: 86% effective
People who have given birth: 71% effective
Spermicide costs about $5–$15 a kit.
No Sharing!Diaphragms and cervical caps are single-user items only. Do not share with other people.In addition to the hygiene factor, these barrier methods are not one size fits all. They must be fitted to the individual. Wearing the wrong size can make them ineffective.
No Sharing!
Diaphragms and cervical caps are single-user items only. Do not share with other people.In addition to the hygiene factor, these barrier methods are not one size fits all. They must be fitted to the individual. Wearing the wrong size can make them ineffective.
Diaphragms and cervical caps are single-user items only. Do not share with other people.
In addition to the hygiene factor, these barrier methods are not one size fits all. They must be fitted to the individual. Wearing the wrong size can make them ineffective.
Spermicide and Contraceptive Gel
Spermicideis an over-the-counter (OTC) product that comes in gel, cream, foam, or suppository. It is inserted deep in the vagina to prevent sperm from reaching an egg. There is also a prescription gel calledPhexxithat works in a similar way to impair sperm mobility.
Spermicide or Phexxi can be used on their own but are more effective when used with other contraceptives such as condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, or sponges.
Spermicide used alone: 72% effective
Phexxi used alone: Ideal use is 93% effective. Typical use is about 86% effective
Spermicide typically costs about $0.60–$3 per dose (about $8–$15 per kit). It can be found for free in some sexual health clinics. Phexxi requires a prescription and costs may vary depending on your insurance coverage.
Do Not EatSpermicide is to be used on or in the genitals only. It is dangerous to ingest it.
Do Not Eat
Spermicide is to be used on or in the genitals only. It is dangerous to ingest it.
Withdrawal
Also referred to as “pulling out,” this method requires removing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation happens.Ejaculation happens away from the vulva and vagina.
In practice, about 78% effective
Free
Birth Control Shot
Thebirth control shot(also called Depo-Provera) is a hormonal injection received every three months.The birth control shot contains the hormone progestin, which prevents ovulation. It also makes cervical mucus thicker, making it hard for sperm to get through.
Ideal use: More than 99% effective
Typical use: About 94% effective
Vaginal Ring
Thebirth control ring(also called the vaginal ring, or the ring) is a small, flexible ring that goes inside the vagina and releases estrogen and progestin into the body.These hormones prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus.
The two kinds of birth control rings are:
Ideal use: 99% effective
Typical use: 91% effective
Birth Control Patch
Thebirth control patchis a patch that is worn on the belly, butt, back, or upper arm.The patch contains estrogen and progestin, which prevent ovulation. It also thickens cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to get in.
Typical use: About 91% effective
Hormonal Birth Control Pill
Thecombination birth control pillcontains estrogen and progestin.The progestin-only pill, or minipill, only contains progestin.
Both pills work to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus (making it harder for sperm to get in). It is taken daily ideally at the same time. The minipill must be taken within the same three-hour window each day.
The progestin-only pill is slightly less effective than the combination pill.
For those who don’t have insurance, the cost of a doctor’s visit and the cost of the medication itself can be prohibitive. In July 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvedOpill (norgestrel), aprogestin-only oral contraceptive, to be sold OTC. Opill is the first and only birth control pill available without a prescription.
Fertility Awareness (FAMs)
Fertility awareness methods(also called “natural family planning” or the rhythm method) are routines that track ovulation so that sex can be avoided on days most likely to result in pregnancy.
Tracking methods can include taking your temperature every morning before getting out of bed, checking cervical mucus (vaginal discharge) daily, and charting your cycle on a calendar or in a period tracking app.
About 76%–88% effective. Most effective when multiple methods (such as temperature, mucus, and calendar) are used together.
It’s free except for equipment such as a thermometer.
Birth Control Implant
The implant lasts up to five years.
More than 99% effective
IUD
What Is It?
Hormonal IUDs release a tiny amount of the hormone progestin (which prevents ovulation) into the uterus over a period of three to seven years, depending on which IUD is used.
The nonhormonal IUD releases a small amount of copper (which is toxic to sperm). It is effective for up to 12 years.
Emergency ContraceptionThe nonhormonal copper IUD can also be used as emergency contraception. It is 99.9% effective at preventing pregnancy if it is inserted within 120 hours (five days) after having unprotected sex. It can remain in afterward to prevent future pregnancies.
Emergency Contraception
The nonhormonal copper IUD can also be used as emergency contraception. It is 99.9% effective at preventing pregnancy if it is inserted within 120 hours (five days) after having unprotected sex. It can remain in afterward to prevent future pregnancies.
Almost 100%
Tubal Ligation
Tubal ligation(“getting your tubes tied”) is a surgical procedure in which a healthcare providerpermanentlycuts or seals off the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from being released into the uterus.This keeps eggs and sperm from meeting.
It’s usually a laparoscopic procedure (through one or two small cuts, using a tool with a light and a lens), with either local or general anesthesia. It takes about 20–30 minutes and leaves little scarring. Most people go home the same day.
Is Pregnancy Possible After Tubal Ligation?
There are more factors to consider than effectiveness and cost when choosing birth control. The birth control that is best for you depends on things such as:
Condoms plus another form of birth control is a good way to prevent pregnancy and STIs.
Start with Your Healthcare ProviderBefore starting a birth control method, it’s a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider, even if your method of choice doesn’t require a prescription.Your healthcare provider can help you decide what would best suit your needs, discuss any risks you should be aware of, and help make sure you are using the method correctly.
Start with Your Healthcare Provider
Before starting a birth control method, it’s a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider, even if your method of choice doesn’t require a prescription.Your healthcare provider can help you decide what would best suit your needs, discuss any risks you should be aware of, and help make sure you are using the method correctly.
Before starting a birth control method, it’s a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider, even if your method of choice doesn’t require a prescription.
Your healthcare provider can help you decide what would best suit your needs, discuss any risks you should be aware of, and help make sure you are using the method correctly.
A Word From Verywell
If you are having penis-in-vagina sex and you don’t wish to become pregnant or cause someone else to, you will need to find an effective birth control method.
There are many choices available, each with benefits and disadvantages. Talk to your healthcare provider about your options and which method or methods work best for you and your needs.
It’s important to remember that the only birth control method that protects against STIs are condoms. Combining condoms with another form of birth control protects against STIs and gives extra protection from pregnancy.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhich birth control is the best depends on what your personal needs and comfort levels are. In general, using condoms along with another form of birth control helps protect against STIs and gives extra protection from pregnancy.Hormonal birth control methods such as the birth control pill or patch can help with acne.
Which birth control is the best depends on what your personal needs and comfort levels are. In general, using condoms along with another form of birth control helps protect against STIs and gives extra protection from pregnancy.
Hormonal birth control methods such as the birth control pill or patch can help with acne.
24 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Planned Parenthood.Condom.Marfatia YS, Pandya I, Mehta K.Condoms: past, present, and future.Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2015;36(2):133-139. doi:10.4103/0253-7184.167135Planned Parenthood.Birth control sponge.National Health Service.Diaphragm or cap.Planned Parenthood.Diaphragm.Planned Parenthood.Cervical cap.The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Barrier methods of birth control: spermicide, condom, sponge, diaphragm, and cervical cap.Planned Parenthood.Spermicide and contraceptive gel.Planned Parenthood.Withdrawal (pull out method).Planned Parenthood.Birth control shot.Planned Parenthood.Birth control ring.Planned Parenthood.Birth control patch.Planned Parenthood.Birth control pills.Sexual Health Victoria.Progestogen only pills (POP or mini pill).Planned Parenthood.Fertility awareness.Centers For Disease Control and Prevention.Contraception.Planned Parenthood.Birth control implant.Planned Parenthood.What are hormonal IUDs?Planned Parenthood.What are non-hormonal IUDs?National Health Service.Vasectomy.Planned Parenthood.Vasectomy.Planned Parenthood.Sterilization.U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Birth control.Planned Parenthood.What’s the best kind of birth control?
24 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Planned Parenthood.Condom.Marfatia YS, Pandya I, Mehta K.Condoms: past, present, and future.Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2015;36(2):133-139. doi:10.4103/0253-7184.167135Planned Parenthood.Birth control sponge.National Health Service.Diaphragm or cap.Planned Parenthood.Diaphragm.Planned Parenthood.Cervical cap.The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Barrier methods of birth control: spermicide, condom, sponge, diaphragm, and cervical cap.Planned Parenthood.Spermicide and contraceptive gel.Planned Parenthood.Withdrawal (pull out method).Planned Parenthood.Birth control shot.Planned Parenthood.Birth control ring.Planned Parenthood.Birth control patch.Planned Parenthood.Birth control pills.Sexual Health Victoria.Progestogen only pills (POP or mini pill).Planned Parenthood.Fertility awareness.Centers For Disease Control and Prevention.Contraception.Planned Parenthood.Birth control implant.Planned Parenthood.What are hormonal IUDs?Planned Parenthood.What are non-hormonal IUDs?National Health Service.Vasectomy.Planned Parenthood.Vasectomy.Planned Parenthood.Sterilization.U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Birth control.Planned Parenthood.What’s the best kind of birth control?
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Planned Parenthood.Condom.Marfatia YS, Pandya I, Mehta K.Condoms: past, present, and future.Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2015;36(2):133-139. doi:10.4103/0253-7184.167135Planned Parenthood.Birth control sponge.National Health Service.Diaphragm or cap.Planned Parenthood.Diaphragm.Planned Parenthood.Cervical cap.The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Barrier methods of birth control: spermicide, condom, sponge, diaphragm, and cervical cap.Planned Parenthood.Spermicide and contraceptive gel.Planned Parenthood.Withdrawal (pull out method).Planned Parenthood.Birth control shot.Planned Parenthood.Birth control ring.Planned Parenthood.Birth control patch.Planned Parenthood.Birth control pills.Sexual Health Victoria.Progestogen only pills (POP or mini pill).Planned Parenthood.Fertility awareness.Centers For Disease Control and Prevention.Contraception.Planned Parenthood.Birth control implant.Planned Parenthood.What are hormonal IUDs?Planned Parenthood.What are non-hormonal IUDs?National Health Service.Vasectomy.Planned Parenthood.Vasectomy.Planned Parenthood.Sterilization.U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Birth control.Planned Parenthood.What’s the best kind of birth control?
Planned Parenthood.Condom.
Marfatia YS, Pandya I, Mehta K.Condoms: past, present, and future.Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2015;36(2):133-139. doi:10.4103/0253-7184.167135
Planned Parenthood.Birth control sponge.
National Health Service.Diaphragm or cap.
Planned Parenthood.Diaphragm.
Planned Parenthood.Cervical cap.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Barrier methods of birth control: spermicide, condom, sponge, diaphragm, and cervical cap.
Planned Parenthood.Spermicide and contraceptive gel.
Planned Parenthood.Withdrawal (pull out method).
Planned Parenthood.Birth control shot.
Planned Parenthood.Birth control ring.
Planned Parenthood.Birth control patch.
Planned Parenthood.Birth control pills.
Sexual Health Victoria.Progestogen only pills (POP or mini pill).
Planned Parenthood.Fertility awareness.
Centers For Disease Control and Prevention.Contraception.
Planned Parenthood.Birth control implant.
Planned Parenthood.What are hormonal IUDs?
Planned Parenthood.What are non-hormonal IUDs?
National Health Service.Vasectomy.
Planned Parenthood.Vasectomy.
Planned Parenthood.Sterilization.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Birth control.
Planned Parenthood.What’s the best kind of birth control?
Meet Our Medical Expert Board
Share Feedback
Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!What is your feedback?OtherHelpfulReport an ErrorSubmit
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
What is your feedback?OtherHelpfulReport an ErrorSubmit
What is your feedback?
