Buy Health Insurance Online

Exclusive

Wellness Benefits

24*7 Claims

Support

Tax Savings

u/s 80D

Zero Paperwork Online Process

Pin Code

+91 Enter Mobile Number

Try agian later

I agree to the Terms & Conditions

Port My Policy

Download Policy

(Incl 18% GST)

Birth Control Methods : How to Choose the Best One

Birth control or contraception is for preventing pregnancy by different methods. However, not every technique is suitable for everyone, and this is because of underlying health issues, specific health metrics and personal choices.

Thus, it is extremely important for everyone to know about the pros and cons of different types of birth control before deciding on one. So, scroll through the article to learn how to choose the right birth control.

Team Digit

What Are the Different Types of Birth Control?

Birth control methods can be majorly divided into 3 types: barrier, hormonal, and surgical. There are a number of options in all these three methods, and they are also available for both males and females. These are discussed below:

1. Barrier Method

In the barrier method, some pregnancy-controlling devices are used that can restrict the sperm from reaching the egg. Different types of devices are available for both men and women, which are discussed below with pros and cons

1.1 Male or External Condoms

Male condoms are one of the most popular birth control methods, also called external condoms. These are thin covers with latex that can block the sperm from reaching the ovary.

Pros:

Condoms also help protect from harmful STDs
These have no impact on the menstrual cycle

Cons:

Sometimes accessing condoms can be really inconvenient
The failure rate is really high, almost 20%
You cannot reuse it.

1.2 Female Condoms

Unlike male condoms, female condoms should be inserted into the vagina and are not external. This is also a thin pouch-like substance with a latex coating, and it holds the semen and blocks sperm from reaching the egg.

Pros:

These condoms are highly available in the market.
Gives protection from STDs

Cons:

High rate of failure
Noisy
Not reusable

1.3 Diaphragm

The diaphragm or cervical cap is a dome-shaped silicon device that women place inside their vagina on the cervix. It consists of spermicides that kill the sperm in order to prevent fertilisation. However, you need to refill the spermicide jelly frequently.

Pros:

Cost-effective as a diaphragm can last for approx. 2 years.

Cons:

Women need help from a doctor to fit a diaphragm and refill spermicides.
Can be harmful if used during menstruation and increases the chance of toxic shock syndrome.

1.4 Birth Control Sponge

Birth control sponges are soft foamy substances with spermicides. To activate its effectiveness, women should place it inside their vaginas at least 24 hours before intercourse. Unlike the diaphragm, it does not need to be fitted by a doctor.

Pros:

Convenient, easy to use
Does not need any prescription to use
Effective

Cons:

Difficulties while putting in
It cannot be used during pregnancy
Cannot protect from STDs

1.5 Contraceptive Gel

The contraceptive or vaginal gel is a barrier contraceptive method that is super convenient and comfortable to use. This gel contains spermicides, and females must apply this in the inner part of their vagina before sex. Thus, it will kill the sperm and prevent pregnancy.

Pros:

No need to apply it every time and can be only used before having sex
It does not have any impact on the menstrual cycle
It can be used with other contraceptive methods
Highly effective, almost 86%

Cons:

Can cause vaginal irritation
In rare cases, this gel can cause infection

2. Hormonal Methods

These methods can be the best answer to your query of how to find the right birth control. Hormonal methods refer to the pills and implants that can regulate the reproductive hormone level in a female body. Generally, hormonal methods are for women and are highly effective in preventing pregnancy.

Some hormonal methods of pregnancy prevention are as follows:

2.1 Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are oral contraceptives that contain synthetic oestrogen and progestin. Birth control pills are of 2 types, combination pills and progestin-only pills or mini pills. Hence one should consume both of these pills following proper guidelines and, in some cases, with a physician's suggestion.

Pros:

Gives painless and regular periods
Reduce acne
Reduce the risk of ovarian and breast cancer
Highly effective in preventing pregnancy

Cons:

A slight chance of a blood clot
Combination pills are risky for heart patients and smokers
Have to take every day

2.2 Contraceptive Patches and Rings

Contraceptive patches and rings also contain the same hormones as the pills. Women have to apply the patches on their upper arm, abdomen or buttock and ring inside their vagina. Patches and rings can be used without a doctor's prescription or help, and they release oestrogen and progestin and control ovulation.

Pros:

One can remove and get periods easily
Almost 95% effective for preventing pregnancy
Easy to apply

Cons:

Bloating
Tender breasts
Continuous changing of the ring
Risky for smokers

2.3 Hormonal Implant

The hormonal implant is the insertion of a rod-like substance in the upper arm of a woman. This rod continuously supplies oestrogen and progestin and prevents ovulation, and it is a long-lasting method for birth control.

Pros:

Highly effective
Does not need any pelvic examination
A semi-surgical process so it can be done within a minimum time

Cons:

Women may get unpredictable bleeding
Sometimes cause excessive bleeding during periods or reduce the normal amount of bleeding.

2.4 Hormonal IUD

IUD or intrauterine device is another hormonal method of preventing pregnancy. It is generally a T-shaped device made with copper or plastic that contains hormones. An IUD works by regulating the sex hormone level in a female body.

Pros:

Effective up to 99%
Cost-effective and long-lasting
Reduces the risk of ovarian cancer
Makes the period lighter and smooth

Cons:

A thorough pelvic exam is required
Sudden spotting
Need a proper healthcare system for the insertion and removal of the device
In rare cases, the risk of perforation

2.5 Shots or Injectable Birth Control

In this method, a healthcare provider injects shots of hormones into women every 3 months. The technique is highly effective for preventing pregnancy if taken at the right time.

Pros:

Helpful in controlling periods
Highly effective like hormonal birth control pills

Cons:

Needs a doctor's consultant every time using
It may cause bone thinning

3. Sterilisation

Sterilisation refers to the surgical processes that can be performed on both men and women. There are two types of sterilisation processes, tubal ligation and vasectomy. A brief discussion on these two is as follows:

3.1 Tubal Ligation

Tubal ligation is a surgical process for women where a surgeon binds or cuts their fallopian tube. Thus, eggs cannot travel from the ovary to the uterus and pregnancy is prevented. It is an excellent permanent birth control method and can give you a long relief.

Pros:

It is permanent however can be reversed with the proper method
High success rate
No side effects

Cons:

Does not give any protection against STDs
Chances of ectopic pregnancy
Surgical risks
Post-tubal ligation syndrome

3.2 Vasectomy

This is a surgical process for males that blocks the mixing of sperm with semen. In this process, the surgeon cuts or blocks the tube that carries sperm from the testicles. However, it does not affect sex drive or ejaculation.

Pros:

Permanent
Cheap and cost-effective
100% effective

Cons:

It cannot be reversible
Does not prevent STDs
Needs a full surgery

What Are the Safety and Lifestyle Changes One Should Consider?

Some safety and lifestyle practices that you should know before choosing birth control methods are as follows

1. Barrier Methods

People need to follow the below-mentioned safety and lifestyle shift tips while using barrier methods:

Use only before having sex
Using emergency contraception if you feel that the barrier method has failed
For female condoms, squeeze the inner ring to insert it without any hazard and keep one inch out of the vagina.
You do not need to maintain any lifestyle change to use barrier methods.

2. Hormonal Methods

Hormonal methods have side effects, so people have to maintain certain precautions and lifestyle changes. These are as follows:

Women should take birth control pills every day at the same time without fail
Hormonal IUDs should be inserted within the first 7 days of periods
The barrier method should be used along with hormonal IUDs to avoid infection
Women should take birth control pills before bed or with food to prevent nausea and fatigue
Women with previous health issues such as cardiovascular diseases or migraines should be more careful in using birth control pills.
As mood swings are very common with hormonal methods of birth control thus, women should make some lifestyle changes for better results.

3. Surgical Methods

Surgical methods have relatively fewer side effects and are permanent. Thus, one can worry less about the consequences. However, maintaining some safety tips will be really beneficial for people who have taken surgical methods such as birth control.

Vasectomy does not become effective immediately, so you should confirm from your doctor that there is no sperm in your semen.
After vasectomy, one should examine semen several times before indulging in unprotected sex.
In the case of tubectomy or tubal ligation, women should avoid heavy exercises for a week.
Women should also abstain from having sex for a week after tubectomy
Painkillers can be taken to handle post-surgical pain
Women should consult a doctor immediately if they find any issue, bleeding or extreme pain in the wound

What Are the Tips For Choosing the Right Birth Control?

The suitability of birth control methods varies from one individual to another. For example, combination contraceptive pills may be suitable for some women but not ideal for females with heart diseases.

Some effective tips for choosing the right birth control are discussed below to help one make an informed decision.

Consider Your Age and Medical History

Age and health conditions significantly influence birth control and hormone regulation. Thus, women who take different hormonal doses for birth control should be aware of their health condition and consult a doctor beforehand to avoid any further risk.

Partner’s Consent

Before choosing a birth control method, one should have a talk with the sexual partner regarding comfort. Thus, it will be better to choose a method based on mutual consent.

Consider Other Benefits

Some birth control methods do not only prevent pregnancy but also give other benefits like lighter and cramp-free periods, protection from STDs etc. Thus, one should choose these methods as per their needs.

Check the Side Effects

Side effects are very common in women with hormonal birth control; they can cause nausea, vomiting, depression and other health problems. Thus, when choosing this method, women should be careful about these side effects and take preventive measures.

Choose As Per Sexual Habit

Choosing birth control also depends on the sexual habit and relationship status of a person. If one has more than one sexual partner, it is better to choose a barrier method during every sexual intercourse to avoid infection.

Consider Reproductive Goals

Reproductive goals are another important matter to consider for choosing birth control methods. For example, if you have permanent birth control, you can choose surgical procedures. However, if you want to get pregnant within a few years, you can choose the barrier method or hormonal pills.

Affordability and Convenience

You can choose a contraceptive method as per availability and affordability. That means it depends on what you can afford under a specific range and how convenient that method is for you.

Apart from these, marital status, religious belief etc., are also some regulating factors that you should consider before choosing a birth control method.

So you have got a clear idea of how to choose the right birth control for you. The article has also discussed the pros and cons of different types of birth control so that you can choose the most suitable one. Besides, follow the tips mentioned in the article to know which process best suits you and your sexual partner.

FAQs About Choosing the Right Birth Control

All

What is emergency contraception?

It is a type of contraception that prevents pregnancy if birth control fails. Copper IUDs, combination pills etc., are excellent emergency contraceptives.

What is STD?

STDs are Sexually Transmitted Diseases that originate from unprotected sexual intercourse. Some examples of STDs are HIV, Hepatitis B infection etc.

What birth control method to choose for the first time?

If it is the first time the most preferred form of contraceptive chosen is the condom. It gives protection against STIs and prevents pregnancy.

Other Important Articles about Wellbeing

Best Sports For Losing Weight

Walking For Weight Loss

Arthritis After Delivery

GM Diet Plan for Weight Loss

Stretches For Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy

Cardio Exercises For Weight Loss

Birth Control Shot

Birth Control Methods

Exercise For Weight Loss

Postpartum Exercises

Is Cycling Good For Weight Loss

Mortons Neuroma

Best Juice For Weight Loss

Benefits Of Weight Loss

Birth Control Pills Vs IUD

Hormonal Contraceptive

Foods To Avoid While Breastfeeding

Foods And Beverages To Avoid During Pregnancy

Common Health Problems In Men

Heartburn During Pregnancy

How To Overcome Postpartum Depression

Weight Gain Exercise

Liquid Diet For Weight Loss

Birth Control Cleanse

Food For Breastfeeding Mothers

Implants And IUDs

Hysterectomy

Exercise In Pregnancy Second Trimester

Nutritional Requirements During Pregnancy

Common Female Health Problems

Best Foods To Eat During Pregnancy

Jogging For Weight Loss

Fruits For Weight Loss

How To Choose A Fertility Clinic

Benefits Of Prenatal And Postnatal Exercises

Best Foods For Weight Loss

Stress And Infertility

Types of Birth Control Methods

Copper IUD

Recover After A C Section Delivery

Weight Loss Tips At Home

Postpartum Oedema

What Is Gynecomastia

What Is Birth Control: Different Types, Importance & Side Effects

What Is Anabolic Steroids

Grains For Weight Loss

Suryanamaskar For Weight Loss

How Effective Are Infertility Treatments

Causes Of Secondary Infertility

Depression During Pregnancy

Infertility In Women

Hormonal Birth Control

Birth Control Pills

Difference Between Test Tube Baby And IVF

Precautions After Delivery

Protein Rich Food For Weight Loss

Aerobic Exercise For Weight Loss

Skipping Rope For Weight Loss

Keto Diet For Weight Loss

Melatonin And Birth Control

Yoga For Weight Loss

What Is Intermittent Fasting

FSH Blood Test

Postpartum Night Sweats

How To Reduce Belly Fat

Blocked Fallopian Tubes

In Vitro Fertilization

Exercise In Third Trimester Of Pregnancy

What Is Detox Diet

What Is An IUD Birth Control

Things To Avoid During Pregnancy

Yoga For Pregnant Women

How Do Birth Control Pills Work

First Trimester Pregnancy Exercises

Vegetables For Weight Loss

Smoking Causes Infertility

Foods and Drinks to Avoid For Weight Loss

When Should You See A Fertility Specialist

What is Keto Diet

Food Aversions During Pregnancy

Birth Control Myths

Vegetarian Diet For Weight Loss

Detox Diet For Weight Loss

Vaccination for Babies in India: Different Types of Vaccines Explained

Causes Of Male Infertility

Health Implications Of Diet Fertility

Weight Loss Tips For Women

Weight Loss Tips For Men

Birth Control Implant

Birth Control Patch

Get 10+ Exclusive Features only on Digit App

Install

Get 10+ Exclusive Features only on Digit App

Latest News

Currently there are no news to show.

Renew & Download Policy Document, Check Challan, Credit Score, PUC & more

43K+ Reviews

4.7

Rated App

43K+ Reviews

7K+ Reviews

4.4

Rated App

7K+ Reviews

Download the App

CIN: U66010PN2016PLC167410, IRDAI Reg. No. 158.

Go Digit General Insurance Limited (formerly known as Oben General Insurance Ltd.) - Registered Office Address - 1 to 6 floors, Ananta One (AR One), Pride Hotel Lane, Narveer Tanaji Wadi, City Survey No.1579, Shivaji Nagar, Pune-411005, Maharashtra | Corporate Office Address - Atlantis, 95, 4th B Cross Road, Koramangala Industrial Layout, 5th Block, Bengaluru-560095, Karnataka | Trade logo of Go Digit General Insurance Ltd. displayed above belongs to Go Digit lnfoworks Services Private Limited and is provided and used by Go Digit General Insurance Ltd. under license.