Birth Control: Everything You Need to Know About Contraceptive Options

Birth control includes any method, medication, device, or procedure used to prevent pregnancy. Some methods are also used to treat health issues like acne, heavy periods, endometriosis, or hormonal imbalances.

There are five main categories of birth control:

1. Hormonal Methods

2. Barrier Methods

3. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

4. Permanent Methods

5. Behavioral or Natural Methods

1. Hormonal Birth Control Methods

These methods use synthetic hormones (estrogen, progestin, or both) to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or thin the uterine lining.

a. Birth Control Pills

• Taken daily

• Types: Combined pill (estrogen + progestin) or progestin-only

• Pros: Regulates periods, reduces acne, may lower risk of some cancers

• Cons: Must be taken daily; may cause nausea, mood changes

b. Birth Control Patch

• Worn on the skin and changed weekly

• Releases estrogen and progestin

• Pros: Easy to use, effective

• Cons: Can cause skin irritation; slightly higher risk of blood clots

c. Birth Control Ring (NuvaRing)

• A flexible ring inserted into the vagina monthly

• Releases hormones locally

• Pros: Once-a-month use

• Cons: May cause vaginal irritation

d. Birth Control Shot (Depo-Provera)

• Injection every 3 months

• Contains progestin only

• Pros: Very effective; doesn’t require daily action

• Cons: May cause weight gain, delayed return to fertility

e. Hormonal Implants (Nexplanon)

• A small rod placed under the skin of the arm

• Effective for up to 3 years

• Pros: Low maintenance, highly effective

• Cons: May cause irregular bleeding initially

2. Barrier Methods

These physically prevent sperm from reaching the egg.

a. Male Condoms

• Worn on the penis during sex

• Pros: Protects against STIs; no prescription needed

• Cons: May break or slip

b. Female Condoms

• Worn inside the vagina

• Pros: STI protection; can be inserted ahead of time

• Cons: Less common, harder to find

c. Diaphragms and Cervical Caps

• Dome-shaped devices inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix

• Used with spermicide

• Pros: Reusable

• Cons: Less effective than other methods; must be fitted by a doctor

d. Spermicide

• A chemical that kills sperm, available as gels, foams, films

• Often used with other barrier methods

• Cons: Can cause irritation or allergic reactions

3. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

Small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider.

a. Hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla)

• Release progestin

• Last 3–8 years depending on type

• Pros: Highly effective, can lighten or stop periods

• Cons: May cause cramping initially

b. Copper IUD (Paragard)

• Non-hormonal; releases copper to prevent sperm movement

• Lasts up to 10 years

• Pros: Hormone-free

• Cons: May cause heavier periods and cramping

4. Permanent Birth Control Methods

For individuals who are certain they do not want children in the future.

a. Tubal Ligation (Female Sterilization)

• Surgical procedure to block or cut fallopian tubes

• Pros: Permanent

• Cons: Requires surgery; not easily reversible

b. Vasectomy (Male Sterilization)

• Cuts or seals the vas deferens (sperm-carrying tubes)

• Pros: Safe, effective, and permanent

• Cons: Takes a few months to become fully effective; requires follow-up

5. Behavioral and Natural Methods

These rely on timing, tracking, and abstinence during fertile days.

a. Fertility Awareness (Natural Family Planning)

• Tracking ovulation signs (temperature, cervical mucus)

• Pros: No side effects; accepted in religious contexts

• Cons: Requires daily tracking and discipline; less reliable

b. Withdrawal Method

• Pulling out before ejaculation

• Pros: No cost

• Cons: High failure rate; pre-ejaculate may contain sperm

c. Abstinence

• Avoiding sexual activity

• Pros: 100% effective if practiced consistently

• Cons: Requires commitment; not always realistic long-term

Emergency Contraception

Used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

a. Morning-After Pill (Plan B, Ella)

• Most effective when taken within 72–120 hours

• Pros: Available over the counter (in most places)

• Cons: May cause temporary side effects like nausea or cycle changes

b. Copper IUD as Emergency Contraception

• Can be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected sex

• Most effective emergency method

How to Choose the Right Birth Control

Consider the following factors:

• Effectiveness: What’s your risk tolerance for unintended pregnancy?

• Lifestyle: Do you prefer daily, monthly, or long-term methods?

• Medical history: Any hormonal sensitivities or health conditions?

• Family planning goals: Do you want kids now, later, or not at all?

• STI protection: Only condoms provide STI protection

• Cost and accessibility: Some methods require prescriptions or insurance coverage

A conversation with your healthcare provider can help guide the best decision for your needs and preferences.

Benefits of Birth Control Beyond Pregnancy Prevention

• Regulates menstrual cycles

• Reduces menstrual cramps and PMS

• Improves acne

• Manages endometriosis or PCOS

• Lowers risk of certain cancers (like ovarian and endometrial)

Common Side Effects and Risks

• Nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes

• Spotting between periods

• Headaches

• Increased risk of blood clots (in some hormonal methods)

• Insertion pain or adjustment period for IUDs and implants

Most side effects are temporary and manageable, but always consult your provider if symptoms persist.

Final Thoughts

Birth control is a deeply personal decision, and no single method is right for everyone. The key is to stay informed, weigh your options, and revisit your needs regularly—because what works for you now might change over time.

Whether you’re preventing pregnancy, managing a health condition, or simply planning for the future, there’s a method that can support your goals.

Your body, your choice, your control. Take the time to choose what’s best for you.