What Is the Best Birth Control for You?

There are a variety of different types of birth control that can be used by females and males. These kinds of birth control can be sorted into three main categories: regular, permanent, and emergency birth control.

Regular birth control

This type of birth control is used regularly to prevent pregnancy. It can be a one-time use, like a condom. Or up to 10 years for longer-lasting methods like IUDs.

Condoms
A non-hormonal option, condoms protect against pregnancy, STDs, and STIs. This can be picked up over the counter without a prescription.

IUD
An intrauterine device — which needs to be inserted by your doctor — is a great option for someone who wants to pause the chances of getting pregnant without using a permanent solution. IUDs can last between three years and a decade.

Birth control implant
This is a small device that your doctor inserts into your upper arm. It typically lasts three to five years.

Birth control shots
This option is hormonal birth control that is given via a shot every three months and will be administered by your provider.

Birth control patches
This hormonal-based birth control option comes in the form of patches you self-administer. Hormones are released through your skin each month. You’ll use one patch a week, for three weeks, and then not during your period. To start this, you’ll request a prescription from your healthcare provider.

Birth control pills
The reliability of this birth control relies on remembering to take a hormonal-based pill every single day. There are different doses, so talk to your doctor about which one would be best for you, and to obtain a prescription.

Vaginal ring
This birth control option is a small ring that stays in your vagina and will only be taken out during your period. During the rest of the month, the ring releases hormones to prevent pregnancy. To start this, you’ll need a prescription from your provider.

Permanent birth control

One type of permanent birth control is tubal ligation, deseribed by the Mayo Clinic as when the fallopian tubes are cut, tied, or blocked to permanently prevent pregnancy.

The second permanent form of birth control is a vasectomy. This procedure cuts the supply of sperm from semen. Technically both tubal ligation and vasectomies can be reversed, however the chances of pregnancy after either procedure is significantly lower.

Emergency birth control

Sometimes regular methods of birth control fail, or sometimes life just happens. In those situations, you have emergency birth control options to prevent pregnancy.

When it comes to emergency birth control, there is a pill version, most commonly known as Plan B, which you can pick up over the counter. Otherwise, you can also see a provider to insert a copper IUD, which is most effective if it’s used within five days after unprotected sex.

Deciding the best type of birth control for your lifestyle isn’t just about preventing pregnancy. “Before jumping into efficacy, when we talk to patients about contraceptives, we first narrow down what they want out of it,” CeCe Cheng, MD, told Everyday Health.

Aside from birth control being used to prevent pregnancy, there are other reasons people may use birth control. Planned Parenthood outlines a few of those benefits as regulating menstrual cycles, reducing menstrual cramps, and lightening your flow. Other potential benefits include helping with acne and even lowering the risk of certain cancers.

“When I first started using birth control, I was a junior in high school. My cramps were so awful, and my cycle was so heavy it was the best way to get things more regular,” mom of two Kay B. told Mom.com. “Later on, in between pregnancies, I opted for an IUD because I knew I wasn’t done having kids, but I wanted to be able to time it on my schedule.”

Aside from preventing pregnancy, other side effects come with some of the birth control you might consider. Keep in mind that non-hormonal options won’t have any side effects.

Birth control side effects will vary from person to person, but the most common side effects can include nausea, headaches, weight gain, and changes to your mood and sex drive. Other, more serious complications may include blood clots and high blood pressure. While these side effects are rare, they are serious. If you are unsure about the side effects you’re experiencing, make sure to get in touch with your provider right away.