The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that around 64% of women aged 15-49 in the United States are using some method of contraception [1]. That’s around 46.9 million individuals, with independent needs and preferences. In fact, out of these millions of women - some choose to use the contraceptive pill and others opt for the male condom because, as we all know, birth control isn’t one size fits all!
With the above in mind, when deciding to choose the birth control that’s right for your body, there are five important questions to ask yourself:
- What are my birth control options?
- How effective is the birth control?
- How simple is it to use?
- Are there any associated side effects?
- Does it prevent STDs?
What to consider when choosing birth control
Now more than ever, there is so much choice when it comes to birth control. And, with this new plethora of choices, sometimes comes confusion - mainly surrounding what birth control is right for you.
Whether you have a personal preference for ease and effectiveness or would like to steer clear of any potential side effects, there are a number of different options to choose from when it comes to birth control, and important factors to consider for each.
The Contraceptive Pill
Sometimes referred to as the ‘combined pill’, the contraceptive pill contains artificial versions of the female hormones oestrogen and progesterone which can help stop ovulation. If ovulation doesn’t happen, the sperm can’t fertilize the egg and pregnancy can’t occur.
How effective is the birth control?
When taken correctly, the combined pill and the progesterone-only pill are both more than 99% effective [2].
How simple is it to use?
The typical way to take the contraceptive pill involves taking one pill at the same time every day for 21 days and then taking a 7-day break, making it one of the most convenient birth control options.
Are there any associated side effects?
There are a handful of potential side-effects associated with the combined pill, these include:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Mood swings
It’s important to remember that the contraceptive pill is not always only used as contraception and with these potential side-effects come a number of advantages such as regulating the menstrual cycle, reducing acne, and controlling PMS symptoms.
Does it prevent STIs?
The contraceptive pill can’t prevent STIs which is why it’s recommended to always practice safe sex - even when taking the pill.
Vaginal rings
The vaginal ring is a small, plastic ring that is placed inside of the vagina. Similar to the contraceptive pill, the vaginal ring releases the female hormones oestrogen and progesterone to suppress ovulation and prevent pregnancy.
How effective is the birth control?
With perfect use, the vaginal ring is more than 99% effective [2].
How simple is it to use?
The vaginal ring is a small soft, plastic ring that you place inside your vagina. The standard way to use the ring is to leave it in for 21 days and remove it for 7. A new ring is then reinserted after the 7-day break.
Are there any associated side effects?
While side effects of the vaginal ring aren’t all too common, there are some potential side effects, including:
- Breakthrough bleeding
- Vaginal irritation
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Decreased sex drive
- Breast tenderness
- Depression
Does it prevent STDs?
The vaginal ring doesn’t prevent STIs so don’t forget to use protection to help reduce the risk of contracting any infections.
Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC)
Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) are methods of birth control that provide contraception over a long period of time, examples of these include:
- Contraceptive implant (the bar)
- Intrauterine system (IUS)
- Intrauterine device (IUD or the ‘coil’)
How effective is the birth control?
According to Planned Parenthood, LARCs are the most effective forms of birth control with the contraceptive implant, IUS, and IUD all more than 99% effective [3].
How simple is it to use?
Long-active reversible contraceptives are considered one of the ‘easiest’ forms of contraception as they involve little to no effort from the patient [4]. They are inserted by a healthcare provider and, depending on the type chosen, can last anywhere from 2 months to 10 years.
Are there any associated side effects?
Although it depends on the form of LARC chosen, there are some temporary side effects associated with LARCs, these include:
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
- Mood swings
Does it prevent STDs?
LARCs cannot help in preventing STIs. In fact, one study found that those using a form of LARCs were less likely to use condoms during sex and thus were more likely to contract an infection.
Condoms
While this form of birth control may need no introduction, condoms are thin rubber sheets worn during intercourse as a form of birth control and as a way to help in reducing the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). There are two forms - the female condom and the male condom.
How effective is the birth control?
With perfect use, the male condom is around 98% effective and the female condom is 95% effective [2].
How simple is it to use?
While the male condom must be put on correctly before the penis has come into contact with the partner’s body, the female condom can be inserted at any point before sex but always before the penis touches the genital area.
Are there any associated side effects?
As condoms don’t require the use of hormones, there aren’t many side effects associated with this form of birth control. With that said, they can trigger a latex allergy and this may cause a rash, hives, or a runny nose.
Does it prevent STDs?
Once used correctly, condoms are the only form of birth control that can help in lowering your risk of contracting STIs during sexual activity.
According to studies undertaken by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the contraceptive pill is one of the most commonly used contraceptive methods [1]. While the contraceptive pill may not be right for everyone, it does bring with it a number of benefits, these include helping to reduce:
- Acne
- PMS symptoms
- Ovarian cysts
- Anemia
If you think the pill is the right birth control for you, LetsGetChecked offers a prescription for the contraceptive pill through our app (available to download on the App Store and Google Play Store). For now, this service is only available in the U.S. and it involves a few easy steps:
- Complete a quick online health assessment
- Our medical team will review and approve your order if suitable
- The contraceptive pill will be delivered to your home with free shipping and discreet packaging
- Renew your prescription as required
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Current Contraceptive Status Among Women Aged 15–49: United States, 2015–2017. Online: CDC.gov
- NHS. How effective is contraception at preventing pregnancy? Online: NHS.uk
- Planned Parenthood. About LARCs. Online: Plannedparenthood.org
- Planned Parenthood. About LARCs. Online: Plannedparenthood.org
