How to Choose the Best Contraception Method

What are the different types of birth control

There are many forms of birth control, but they can be broken down into four main categories. The types of female contraception, with examples of each, are as follows:

Hormonal or chemical contraceptives
Barrier methods
Awareness methods
Permanent methods

Combined/mini pills
Patch
Ring
Injection
Implant
Intrauterine system (IUS)
Intrauterine device (IUD)

Condoms
Diaphragms

Family planning
Withdrawal
Standard days method

Sterilisation

On this page, we’ll discuss each of the types of contraceptive methods to help give you a balanced idea of which may be best for you.

Birth Control Pills

How many different types of birth control pills are available in the US? Well, the short answer is there are lots. The reason there are so many different types of contraceptive pills is because they were first approved over 60 years ago in 1960. But the world looked very different then and the main women who were prescribed birth control pills at this time were older women who already had children.

Over the years, the pill has become increasingly available to women across the globe — it’s also become far safer to take. There have been several incarnations of the pill since 1960, known as “generations,” and each has aimed to reduce the risk of certain side effects while still guaranteeing a high level of contraceptive effectiveness.

Certain types of birth control pills contain two synthetic female hormones and some contain only one, but they can affect the body in similar ways, and the important thing is that they both guarantee very high levels of contraceptive protection when used correctly.

Combined pills (Combined oral contraceptive pills)

Combined contraceptive pills, the most commonly prescribed pill, contain two versions of naturally occurring female hormones - oestrogen and progesterone. There are also different versions of these synthetic hormones, which surround generational pill changes over the years, and some affect women in different ways.

Each month, levels of oestrogen and progesterone rise and fall naturally which impacts how and when the female body prepares for pregnancy. Ovulation occurs, for example, and the uterus lining thickens to create a safe environment to receive a fertilised egg.

So, how do combined pills work? When you take combined contraceptive pills, natural levels of these hormones are altered. In doing so, the way in which the body prepares for pregnancy changes. Eggs don’t get released, vaginal mucus thickens which makes it difficult for sperm to pass through the cervix and the uterus lining remains thin - meaning in the (now very unlikely) event an egg does get fertilised, it will have a tricky time implanting itself in the uterus where it would normally grow.

Typically, you take the combined pill for 21 days followed by a seven day break, although it is possible to take the combined pill without any breaks. Sometimes, you won’t take any pills during your break, or some pill packets will contain inactive pills that are included to help you maintain a routine. Certain other combined contraceptive pills are taken for 24 days, followed by only four days of taking placebo pills.

Combined pills are over 99% effective when used perfectly. (Perfectly meaning you never forget to take a pill and always take them at the time you’re supposed to.)

Common side effects associated with the combined pill can include feeling sick, stomach ache, putting on weight, headaches, depressive moods or mood swings and sore or painful breasts. However, because certain combined pill brands contain different versions of female hormones, depending on their generation, switching pills can sometimes help reduce certain side effects.

Pros and cons of the combined pill

Advantages of the combined pill:

You’re in control, you can start and stop using the method whenever it suits you
Won’t interrupt sex in the same way a condom might
Can make periods more regular, lighter or less painful
Reduces the risk of certain types of cancer, including of the womb and ovaries
Can reduce premenstrual symptoms
Can reduce acne
May reduce the chance of pelvic inflammatory disease
May reduce the risk of ovarian cysts and fibroids.

Disadvantages of the combined pill:

May cause side effects that clear up over time, including headaches, feeling sick, tender breasts and mood swings.
May increase blood pressure for some women
Doesn’t protect against STIs
Spotting is common for the first few months of using the pill
Has been linked with a small but increased risk of blood clots and breast cancer.

Mini pills (Progesterone only pills)

Mini pills offer birth control without oestrogen, they’re also known as progestin-only pills (POP). These might be more suitable for women who experience oestrogenic side effects when using the combined pill. They’re also a safer choice for women who shouldn’t take the combined pill due to their age, smoking habits or medical conditions.

Mini pills prevent pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus, which stops sperm from reaching an egg. Like combined pills, mini pills are over 99% effective when taken perfectly. When taken "typically" their effectiveness drops to around 93%. This means approximately seven out of every 100 women who use the mini pill will become pregnant. You have to take the mini pill every day without breaks in between packs. If you’re over the age of 35 and smoke, it’s safe for you to use the mini pill.

Common side effects associated with the progestogen-only pill include feeling sick, headaches, loss of libido, tender breasts, breast enlargement, mood swings, dizziness, fatigue, bleeding between periods and skipped periods.

Pros and cons of the mini pill

Advantages of the mini pill:

Doesn’t interrupt sex the same way a condom might
Can be taken postnatally and also when breastfeeding
Safe to use if you cannot take the oestrogen hormone
You can use it at any age
Safer for smokers than the combined pill
Can make periods less frequent, lighter or even stop

Disadvantages of the mini pill:

Your periods may change and become irregular
Doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections
You need to remember to take it daily and at a similar time each day (though this is dependent on the brand)
Certain medications can reduce mini pill effectiveness

Best pill for heavy painful periods

Can birth control lighten periods? Yes, and birth control for heavy periods is also something you can discuss with your doctor or prescriber.

Both combined pills and mini pills can be used to treat heavy or painful periods.

Combined pills can also help to regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce period pain. Some are specifically FDA-approved for heavy periods, not just as birth control.

What is the best birth control pill?

Reading all of the above might have left you wondering, “Which pill is best for me?” It’s quite natural to feel overwhelmed about the different types of pills; sometimes finding the right one for you is just a matter of trying a few and seeing what works best. A chat between you and your doctor or prescriber can be a good starting point. But before you do, it’s worth thinking about what’s important to you.

Finding the “best” birth control pill isn’t always as straightforward as it sounds. Each has their own pros and cons and certain women may experience side effects when taking a particular pill, whereas others won’t. Sometimes, you might need to switch a few times before you find the one for you.

Non-pills

There are also a number of hormonal contraceptives that aren’t taken orally as tablets. These include the birth control patch, ring and intrauterine device (IUD). You also don’t need to remember to use or administer these methods daily, which can make them more beneficial if you’re prone to forgetfulness or if you struggle to swallow pills. Read on to find out more.

Birth control patch

The birth control patch, or the transdermal contraceptive patch, is applied to the skin and releases hormones directly into the bloodstream. (It works similarly to a nicotine patch.)

It’s a small, sticky patch that can be applied to any area of the skin, providing it’s clean, dry and not too hairy. It contains and releases two synthetic versions of female hormones called estrogen and progestin. When these are absorbed into the bloodstream, they affect how the body prepares for pregnancy.

The main contraceptive patch used here in the US is called Xulane. It works by releasing hormones which prevent ovulation from occurring each month. However, the patch also causes mucus found in the vagina to thicken, this can block sperm from travelling through the cervix. Lastly, the uterus lining will remain thin - meaning fertilised eggs cannot implant themselves and grow.

You apply the patch and leave it on for seven days. On the eighth day, apply a new one. Do this for three weeks and then spend the fourth week patch-free. (You’re still fully protected in the fourth week.)

The most common side effects of the birth control patch include headaches, nausea, tender breasts and mood changes, however less than 1 in 10 women experience these. These are more likely to occur when you first start using the patch and usually subside over time.

Pros and cons of the patch

Advantages of the birth control patch include:

Easy application and won’t interrupt sex the same way a condom might
You don’t have to think about it every day. You change your patch once a week for three weeks and then spend a week not wearing one
The hormones are absorbed directly into the bloodstream so sickness and vomiting don’t impact how the patch works
Can make periods lighter or less painful
May help lessen premenstrual symptoms
May reduce the risk of certain cancers including those of the uterus or ovaries.

Disadvantages of the contraceptive patch include:

Might be visible depending on where you apply it
May cause the skin to become irritated or itchy, if you’re sensitive to adhesives
Will not protect against sexually transmitted infections
Spotting and bleeding in between periods, especially when you first start using it
Certain medications make the patch less effective
You need to change the patch weekly. If you’re prone to forgetfulness, the implant or an IUD might be a better method of contraception for you

Birth control ring

The birth control ring is a small, soft plastic device which is inserted into the vagina. Unlike the contraceptive cap, it doesn’t need to cover the entrance of the uterus to work. It contains two synthetic versions of estrogen and progestin, which affect how the body prepares for pregnancy.

The ring works similarly to combined pills and the contraceptive patch: they stop eggs from being released, thicken vaginal mucus — which blocks sperm from passing through the cervix — and change the environment in the uterus, meaning fertilized eggs can’t implant themselves.

The birth control ring is inserted once a month, which can be optimal for women who struggle to swallow tablets or forget when to take them. When used perfectly, the birth control ring is over 99% effective.

Common side effects associated with the ring include vaginal discharge, breast tenderness or headaches. These are more likely to occur when you first start using the birth control ring.

Pros and cons of the ring

Advantages of the birth control ring include:

Doesn’t interrupt sex the same way a condom might
Easy to insert and remove
It’s an “invisible” method.
Someone can see a patch or find a packet of pills; only you know you’re using a ring
Shouldn’t feel uncomfortable when you have sex
You insert it for a month at a time, meaning you don’t have to think about using it all the time
If you’re sick or vomit, this won’t impact how the birth control ring works or its effectiveness
Can help reduce premenstrual symptoms
Periods can become lighter and less painful

Disadvantages of the birth control ring include:

You need to feel comfortable putting your fingers inside your vagina to get the ring in place
When you first start using the birth control ring, spotting or bleeding in between periods can occur
Will not protect against sexually transmitted infections
You need to change it monthly, which may not be beneficial if remembering to do this is difficult
Certain medications make the ring less effective

Contraceptive injections

The contraceptive injection is a method of birth control which intravenously releases hormones directly into the bloodstream. Depo-Provera, the main contraceptive injection used in the US,
can provide protection for up to 13 weeks at a time. Other brands provide protection for eight weeks.

Contraceptive injections contain the hormone progestin. Ovulation doesn’t occur, vaginal mucus thickens which blocks sperm from passing through the cervix and the environment within the uterus becomes unsustainable for fertilized eggs to implant themselves and subsequently grow.

It’s usually injected into the buttocks, but you can also have them in the upper arm. When used and administered correctly, the contraceptive injection is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Common side effects associated with the contraceptive injection include weight gain, mood changes, headaches or migraines, tender breasts and irregular periods.

Pros and cons of the injection

Advantages of the contraceptive injection include:

Protection lasts for up to 13 weeks weeks at a time
Doesn’t interrupt sex the same way a condom might
Beneficial if you cannot take estrogen-based contraceptives
You don’t have to think about using the injection daily, weekly or even monthly
Safe to use following pregnancy while you breastfeed
Medication won’t affect how the contraceptive injection works
May make periods less heavy or painful, and can help reduce premenstrual symptoms.

Disadvantages of the contraceptive injection include:

Will not protect you against sexually transmitted infections
May take up to a year before your periods return to normal and you’re completely fertile again after using the contraceptive injection
Some women say that their appetite increases while using the contraceptive injection
You might experience side effects such as headaches, acne, hair loss, low libido or mood changes
Side effects may take a while to settle; once the medication has been injected it can’t be removed it's designed to stay in your system for several weeks

Intrauterine devices (IUDs)

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the cervix through the vagina. They need fitting by a specially trained healthcare professional in a clinic and the procedure can be uncomfortable, but once it’s fitted, it can stay there for five to 10 years, depending on the device.

Non-hormonal IUD

The non-hormonal IUD, also called the copper IUD or by its brand name ParaGard, is a plastic and copper device that’s inserted into the cervix.The copper prevents sperm from reaching the unfertilized egg and reduces the chance of a fertilized egg implanting in the uterine lining. It's not a “hormonal” contraceptive method because it doesn’t contain or release hormones. Many women prefer it for this reason.

The copper IUD protects you from pregnancy for between five and 10 years, which might be beneficial if you don’t want to think about contraception regularly. It provides immediate protection and is over 99% effective. In fact, it's the most reliable contraceptive method available other than sterilization.

Copper IUDs can make menstrual bleeding slightly heavier for some women, so if your periods are already heavy, IUDs probably won’t be your first choice.

Pros and cons of the copper IUD

Advantages of the copper IUD include:

You’re protected for five to 10 years, meaning you can forget about the IUD once it’s inserted
Works immediately
Hormonal side effects do not occur such as acne, headaches and nausea.
Doesn’t interrupt sex the same way a condom might
Safe to use the
IUD following birth while you’re breastfeeding
Possible to get pregnant immediately after having the copper
IUD removed.
IUD effectiveness isn’t impacted when you take certain medication

Disadvantages of the copper IUD include:

Periods may get heavier, more painful or last longer
Doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections
Uncommon side effects include vaginal bleeding and discharge

Hormonal IUD

Hormonal IUDs like Mirena look similar to the copper IUD. They work by releasing tiny amounts of progestin, and can stop you from getting pregnant for between three and five years.

The effects are similar to certain mini pills — specifically that it thickens vaginal mucus which can block sperm from passing easily through the cervix and reaching an egg. This type of IUD can also thin the uterus lining which makes it difficult for fertilized eggs to implant, and in a minority of cases the hormonal IUD can also prevent eggs from being released.

It’s over 99% effective when inserted correctly, and a medical professional can remove it at any time of your choosing. If you’re aged 45 or older, you can have a hormonal IUD fitted and leave it until you start to experience menopause.

If you have the hormonal IUD fitted on day one to seven of your menstrual cycle, it’s effective immediately. If you have it inserted on day eight or any day leading to the end of your menstrual cycle, you’ll need to make use of additional contraception, like barrier methods, for seven days.

Common side effects associated with the hormonal IUD can include vaginal bleeding; absent, light or infrequent periods; ovarian cysts; painful periods; weight gain; depression; nervousness; headache and migraine; dizziness; abdominal, pelvic or back pain; nausea; acne; excess hair growth; loss of libido; vaginal discharge; vaginal inflammation’ tender breasts or the device getting displaced.

Pros and cons of the hormonal IUD

Advantages of the hormonal IUD include:

Can remain effective for between three and five years, brand dependant
Highly effective method of birth control
Doesn’t interrupt sex the same way a condom might
Periods usually get lighter, shorter or less painful
Periods can stop altogether after using the IUD for one year
Safe to use after giving birth and breastfeeding
Medication won’t affect how the
IUD works
Contains progestin only, so may be beneficial for women who cannot take estrogen-based medication
You can get pregnant immediately after having it removed
Won’t increase your risk of certain cancers including those of the uterus or ovaries.

Disadvantages of the hormonal IUD include:

Your periods may stop altogether, which might not be suitable for everyone
Initial side effects can occur, including headaches, acne and weight-related problems.
These may clear up after some time
You’re not protected against sexual transmitted infections
Infections may occur while having the IUD fitted which can affect the pelvic region

Contraceptive implant

The last hormonal method of contraception on our list is the contraceptive implant, which is a small, flexible plastic rod about the size of a matchstick. The implant is inserted underneath the skin of one of the upper arms by a doctor or nurse. The procedure is quick and should be painless.

The brand of contraceptive implant used here in the US is Nexplanon, which works by releasing synthetic progestin into the bloodstream. It lasts for up to three years.

The hormones in the implant prevent eggs from being released in the process of ovulation. It can also cause mucus in the vagina to become thicker, which prevents sperm from passing through the cervical canal. It also changes the conditions inside the uterus to prevent implantation from occurring.

The implant is up to 99% effective when applied correctly by a doctor or nurse, and can be effective immediately if fitted within the first five days of your period. If it’s fitted any day thereafter, and before the first day of your next period, you’ll need to make use of additional contraception like barrier methods for up to seven days.

Common side effects associated with the hormonal implant include acne, headaches, weight gain, tender or sore breasts, irregular bleeding, infection of the vagina.

Pros and cons of the implant

Advantages of the contraceptive implant include:

Remains effective for up to three years
Won’t interrupt sex the same way a condom might
A good option for women who can’t use estrogen-based contraceptives
Can be used shortly after giving birth while breastfeeding
You’re fertile immediately after having the implant removed
Your periods may become lighter or less painful

Disadvantages of the contraceptive implant include:

Temporary side effects can include mood changes, breast tenderness, nausea or migraines
Your periods may stop altogether
Your acne may get more severe
A small procedure has to be carried out when you have the implant fitted and removed which can be painful
It doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections

Barrier methods

Barrier methods have been around for hundreds of years — specifically condoms which were initially used to prevent the transmission of sexual infections. Today, they are used to both prevent STIs and pregnancy from occurring. They do so by preventing sperm from being ejaculated into the vagina and cervical canal.

Today, barrier methods mainly comprise condoms, but other examples include diaphragms and vaginal caps.

Condoms

Condoms are the most popular barrier method used in the UK. Condoms are made from thin latex and are either worn around the penis (external condoms) or worn inside the vagina (internal condoms).

Simply, condoms work by preventing sperm from passing into the vagina and cervix. This means sperm doesn’t reach eggs released during ovulation. Essentially, condoms are a thin layer which keep the penis and vagina ‘separated’ during sex.

When used correctly, external condoms can be up to 98% effective. Because condoms are not medication, they very rarely cause any side effects which is a major advantage over hormonal methods of contraception.

Pros and cons of condoms

Advantages of external condoms:

Reliable method of contraception when used correctly
Prevent sexually transmitted infections including chlamydia, gonorrhoea and HIV
You only need to think about condoms when you have sex, suitable for spontaneous or unplanned sexual encounters
Medical side effects from condoms are extremely unlikely
Easily available without prescription and tailored for different preferences

Disadvantages of external condoms:

Condoms can interrupt the flow of sex and ‘kill the mood’
Condoms are highly durable, but can split in rare circumstances when used incorrectly
If you’re allergic to latex or certain types of rubber, you may not be able to use condoms
You have to pull out soon after ejaculating and particularly before the penis gets soft, ensuring the condom remains in place while doing so

Diaphragms and caps

A contraceptive cap or diaphragm is a circular-shaped dome that’s inserted into the vagina and at the base of the cervix. Typically made from silicone, the contraceptive diaphragm blocks the entrance to the cervix and therefore prevents sperm from passing through to the fallopian tube, where it would normally fertilise an egg.

The contraceptive cap is between 92% and 96% effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly. You may want to use spermicides while using the cap. Spermicides are a type of contraceptive gel that kills sperm.

You can still catch sexual infections while using diaphragms and they can be difficult to get the hang of at first. You can talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you need more advice. Though there aren’t many serious side effects associated with contraceptive caps, it is possible to develop bladder infections while using them.

You cannot use the contraceptive cap or diaphragm while you’re on your period as there is a link between doing so and toxic shock syndrome, a potentially life threatening condition.

Pros and cons of diaphragms and caps

Advantages of contraceptive diaphragms and caps:

You only need to use it when you have sex
You can insert it conveniently before sex. Use spermicide if you plan on having it in for three hours or longer

Disadvantages of contraceptive diaphragms and caps:

Not as effective as other methods of contraception
Doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections
Can take some time to learn how to use it properly
Can interrupt the flow of sex when inserting it
Bladder infection can be a problem for certain women who use caps
For some latex and spermicide can be irritating

Permanent

Permanent contraception refers mainly to either female sterilisation or male vasectomy. Sterilisation refers to any medical procedure or surgery which intentionally leaves a person unable to procreate.

It’s important to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of permanent sterilisation and be 100% sure it’s what you want.

Sterilisation

Female sterilization is a medical procedure that either blocks or seals the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from being released during ovulation, meaning sperm cannot reach and fertilize them. Some procedures are performed while you’re asleep under general anaesthetic, but most are done while you’re awake under local anaesthetic.

Female sterilization is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy and, because it’s permanent, you don’t ever have to think about birth control again after it’s done. (Though sterilization doesn’t protect you against STIs).

There aren’t many side effects associated with female sterilization, namely a small risk of complications associated with the surgery including bleeding, infection or damage to other organs.

Male sterilization, more commonly called a vasectomy, is a similar process that snips or seals the tubes which carry sperm. The procedure takes around 15 minutes and is performed typically under local anaesthetic. Men will still ejaculate semen when they climax but the semen doesn’t contain any sperm.

Male sterilization is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy; in fact it is the most reliable way of preventing pregnancy other than avoiding sex completely. You’ll need to use additional methods of contraception, like barrier methods, for up to 12 weeks after having a vasectomy or until tests show your semen is consistently free of sperm.

Side effects associated with the vasectomy include the scrotum becoming bruised, swollen or even painful and some men experience ongoing problems with their testicles following a vasectomy.

Both female sterilization and male vasectomies are intended to be permanent — you need to think carefully before going through with either of them. They can be reversed, but reversal is fairly complex and is often unsuccessful.

Pros and cons of sterilization

Advantages of both male and female sterilization include:

Over 99% effective
Will not impact your hormones, your sex drive and won’t interfere with the flow of sex the same way condoms might

Disadvantages of both male and female sterilization include:

You’re not protected against sexually transmitted infections
Cannot be reversed easily
Small risks of complications are associated with both surgeries.
Female sterilization can cause internal bleeding, infection or damage to other reproductive organs. Male vasectomy can cause hematoma (blood inside the scrotum), sperm granulomas (hard lumps formed by leaking sperm), infection or long-term testicular pain
In very rare circumstances, both the vas deferens tubes and the fallopian tubes can reconnect and you can become fertile again.

Male vasectomies are generally said to be safer than female sterilization, but are not effective immediately the same way female sterilization is. You need to keep using birth control until tests show your semen is completely free of sperm.

Natural

Natural family planning or awareness contraception essentially refers to methods which do not employ devices, systems or medication to prevent pregnancy. Instead they rely on self-awareness techniques and a good understanding of the menstrual cycle and the process of fertilization. A woman can closely monitor her menstrual cycle to work out the days in which she is less likely to become pregnant.

Another “natural” method of contraception is the withdrawal method, which tends to be less effective at preventing pregnancy compared to the majority of other methods.

Fertility awareness

Fertility awareness refers to ovulation and menstrual tracking to understand the days in which you are least likely to get pregnant. These are the days you’re able to have sex typically without another type of birth control. When natural family planning is performed consistently and correctly, it’s up to 99% effective.

You can track your temperature and vaginal mucus discharge daily, for example, to predict when you’ll ovulate, and you can also chart your menstrual cycle on a calendar.[5] It can take several months before you fully learn how to track your fertility signals. But once you’re able to do it, it’s highly effective. There are also a number of websites and apps that help you record and chart this information.

There aren’t any side effects associated with fertility awareness methods, but illness or stress may affect the accuracy of your monitoring.

Pros and cons of natural family planning

Advantages of family planning and awareness methods:

Doesn’t cause any side effects
Awareness methods are acceptable to all cultures and religions
The vast majority of women can benefit from fertility awareness, provided they’re taught correctly how to do it
Just as you can use awareness methods to prevent pregnancy, you can also use them to help you get pregnant
Doesn’t involve hormones or procedures
Can help to make you aware of what normal and irregular discharge looks like
Helps you ‘get to know’ your body and menstrual cycle better

Disadvantages of family planning and awareness methods:

Doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections
You need to use additional contraception, or avoid sex, at the times you’re most likely to get pregnant
If you don’t follow fertility awareness methods properly they become less effective than other methods of birth control
Can take some time before you fully learn natural family planning methods
You need to keep daily records of your fertility signs
Your fertility signs can be affected by things like stress, lifestyle or illness

Withdrawal method

The withdrawal method, or “pulling out,” refers to the process of removing the penis from the vagina entirely before the point of ejaculation has occurred. The aim is to prevent any sperm from entering the vaginal canal and cervix.

How effective is the withdrawal method? Well, it requires an element of self-control, and even then can remain ineffective. It’s typically between 80% and 86% effective, meaning, at worst, 20 out of every 100 couples who practice this method will become pregnant. However, when it’s done perfectly every time, it can be up to 96% effective, which is as effective as certain methods of hormonal birth control.

Pros and cons of the withdrawal method

Advantages of the withdrawal method:

It feels ‘natural’, which some people feel condoms don’t
No side effects are associated with the withdrawal method
It can be used each time you have sex

Disadvantages of the withdrawal method:

It’s not very reliable
Pre-ejaculation, which can contain sperm, may be released before withdrawal
Some men have difficulty timing their ejaculation
You need to completely trust your male partner and their ability to properly withdraw entirely before ejaculation, not during or after
If your partner’s inhibitions are lowered, if they’ve consumed alcohol for example, they may not time their withdrawal correctly

Most effective birth control

The most effective birth control method may also depend on what is most preferable to you and how well you’re able to use it. Here is each birth control ranked by effectiveness.