The abundance of birth control options is genuinely mind-boggling. So many factors go into deciding which one to choose. Marital status, age, emotional maturity, and sexual relationships are a few. Knowing the available options and how to pick the right one for you can make the selection process easier.
Available Birth Control Options
Each type of birth control prevents pregnancy a little differently. They block the sperm from reaching the egg by either:
- Disabling the sperm
- Blocking its passage through the cervix by altering the cervical mucus
- Stop the egg from being released
- Change the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilized egg from attaching there
Birth Control Types and Examples:
(Pregnancy rate with typical use in parentheses):
- Natural Family Planning:
- Fertility awareness method (24%)
- Rhythm method (24%)
- Withdrawal of the penis before ejaculation (20%)
- Barrier Methods:
- Female condoms (21%)
- Male condoms (13%)
- Diaphragm (12%)
- Cervical cap (12%)
- Contraceptive sponge (18%)
- Hormonal Methods:
- Birth control pills (8%)
- Vaginal ring (9%)
- Contraceptive implant (<1%)
- Injection (4%)
- Birth control patch (9%)
- Intrauterine Devices:
- Copper IUD and hormonal IUD (<1%)
- Surgical Sterilization Methods (Usually not reversible):
- Tubal ligation or Essure system for women (<1%)
- Vasectomy for males (<1%)
Finding the Right Fit
So, with all these options, you may wonder, how do you choose? For a contraceptive to be effective, it must be used correctly and consistently. Choosing the right fit means finding one that you are comfortable using and able to stick with the commitment. Talk with your gynecologist about other information that may go into your decision making such as whether you want a reversible option, side effects, religious beliefs to take into consideration, and more.
Birth control can be a remarkable thing, and the start of the year is a great time to switch things up. Participating in clinical research is another great way to try a new birth control option for no cost. To learn more about the currently enrolling birth control studies at Seattle Clinical Research Center, call us at (206) 522-3330, or click here.
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