With so many different kinds of birth control, choosing the right one for you can be a daunting task. One way to help make that choice is to read the pros and cons of some of the most popular types and determine how each fits in with your schedule and lifestyle. Understanding all your birth control options can help you make a decision that will make you more likely to be satisfied with your choice and to use it consistently and correctly.
The Pill
The biggest advantage of taking the pill is that it's more than 99 percent effective if used correctly. It's also a method many women are familiar with and are comfortable taking. The fact that you have to remember to take it each day at around the same time is its biggest drawback. It can also be expensive, depending on brand and your insurance coverage.
The Shot
Many women enjoy the shot because it allows them to only think about their birth control once per month or once every three months. It's also a highly effective method (97 to 99 percent). It's not without its disadvantages. Some women are uncomfortable getting shots. It also can't be stopped or removed like other brands, so in the case of a bad reaction or if you want to immediately become pregnant, you have to wait until the medicine leaves your system.
The Ring
The ring contains hormones like the pill. The nice thing about the ring is that you insert it once, then leave it in place for three weeks. Once inserted, you can't see or feel it and most women report their partners can't feel it either. Disadvantages include inserting it, as some women may not be familiar with their anatomy or comfortable using internal products. It can also slip out if you bear down hard.
The Patch
The patch has medication similar to the birth control ring, but it's delivered through the skin. Patches also mean you don't have to remember to take a daily pill, but many women find they don't like that you can see the patch on their bodies. Others find the patch doesn't stick to their skin well, or that irritates their skin.
IUDs
Next to sterilization, IUDs offer the longest level of protection. There are both five year and ten year versions. An IUD is inserted at your doctor's office in a quick procedure that some women may find uncomfortable. Once in place, it offers effective pregnancy prevention for years. If you're interested in having a child, you can have your health care provider remove it at any time. It's one of the pricier options, costing anywhere from $200 to $500, depending on your health care and insurance providers.
Female Condoms
The advantages of female condoms are that they're one of the few female-controlled methods of birth control that don't involve synthetic hormones. They can be inserted several hours before intercourse so lovemaking isn't interrupted. They're not as widely distributed as male condoms, and they're more pricey. They can also make squeaking noises due to friction, which can be solved by adding water-based lubricant to the inside.
Male Condoms
Make condoms are cheap, readily available and highly effective. They not only prevent pregnancy, but they help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections. They're small and easy to carry with you. Disadvantages of condoms include having to pause lovemaking to apply it and the fact that condoms can fail if used incorrectly.
