Contraception Guide: Finding Your Best Option

Comprehensive guide to contraceptive options, efficacy, benefits, and considerations for different life stages.

10 min readLast updated: 2026-02-17

Quick Facts

Options
Over 15 FDA-approved contraceptive methods available
Perfect vs Typical Use
Efficacy varies between ideal and real-world use
Personalization
Best method matches individual needs and preferences

Overview: Contraceptive Options

Diverse contraceptive methods allow women to choose options matching their health needs, lifestyle, and fertility goals. Understanding efficacy, benefits, and considerations helps inform personal decisions .

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods—intrauterine devices and implants—offer highest efficacy with minimal user-dependent failure.

Key Information
Hormonal methods prevent pregnancy through ovulation suppression. Barrier methods prevent sperm from reaching eggs. Long-acting methods provide years of protection. Permanent methods offer definitive birth control.

Hormonal Methods

Oral contraceptive pills contain estrogen and progestin combinations. Patches, rings, shots, and implants provide hormonal contraception via different delivery routes. Extended-cycle pills reduce menstrual frequency. These methods are 91-99% effective with typical use.

Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC)

Intrauterine devices (copper or hormonal) and subdermal implants are 99% effective and reversible. These require insertion by a healthcare provider but offer years of protection without ongoing user action.

Barrier Methods

Condoms prevent both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Diaphragms, cervical caps, and contraceptive sponges offer additional options. Barrier methods are less effective than hormonal or LARC methods but provide infection protection.

Warning
Combined hormonal contraceptives slightly increase clot risk. Women with personal or significant family history of blood clots should discuss risks with their provider before starting.
Clinical Note
Counseling should address efficacy, side effects, cost, and personal preferences . Many women benefit from LARC due to superior efficacy and convenience. Flexibility is important; switching methods is common as needs evolve. Discuss contraceptive options during routine healthcare visits.

Emergency Contraception

For unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, emergency contraceptive pills or copper IUD insertion within specific timeframes prevent pregnancy. Advance access to emergency contraception options is prudent planning.

Sources

  1. [1]Trussell J. "Contraceptive Efficacy and Safety." Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 2017.
  2. [2]Higgins JA et al.. "Evidence-Based Contraceptive Counseling." New England Journal of Medicine, 2017.

Medically reviewed by

Medical Review Team, Obstetrics and Gynecology

Last updated: 2026-02-17Sources: 2

The content on Medical Atlas is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider.