Every contraceptive method compared on effectiveness, side effects, and who it suits best — so you can have an informed conversation with your doctor.
There is no single "best" birth control. The right method depends on your health history, how important preventing pregnancy is right now, whether you want to preserve fertility, how you feel about hormones, and your practical lifestyle. This guide gives you the key facts on every major method.
LARCs are the most effective methods because there's no daily user action required. Once fitted, they work.
A small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus. Releases low-dose progestogen locally, which thickens cervical mucus and thins the uterine lining. Most women's periods become much lighter or stop entirely. Fertility returns rapidly after removal.
Copper ions create a toxic environment for sperm, preventing fertilisation. Also works as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex. Hormone-free — your natural cycle continues unchanged. Can make periods heavier, especially initially.
A matchstick-sized rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm. Releases progestogen continuously, preventing ovulation. The most effective reversible method available. Periods often become irregular or stop — this is the main downside for some women.
Contains synthetic estrogen and progestogen. Prevents ovulation. Must be taken daily at roughly the same time. Many formulations available with different hormone levels and types. Often improves acne and reduces PMS and period pain.
Contains only progestogen. Works mainly by thickening cervical mucus rather than suppressing ovulation in all cases. Suitable for women who can't take estrogen (migraine with aura, history of blood clots, breastfeeding). Must be taken within a stricter time window.
Both deliver combined hormones. The patch is changed weekly (3 weeks on, 1 week off). The ring is worn vaginally for 3 weeks then removed. Similar benefits and risks to the combined pill but with fewer daily tasks.
The only contraceptive method that also protects against STIs. Must be used correctly every time. Gap between perfect and typical use is significant — mostly from inconsistent use or breakage.
Tracking your cycle to identify fertile days and avoiding unprotected sex during them. Modern evidence-based methods (Symptothermal Method, Marquette, TCOYF) have up to 99% effectiveness with correct use. Requires consistent tracking of BBT, cervical mucus, and cycle length. Apps like WomensPal help track the data.
Whether you're using hormonal contraception, FAM, or planning to conceive, WomensPal helps you understand your body and take control of your reproductive health.
Start tracking free →The most effective methods are the implant and hormonal IUDs (over 99% effective with no user error required), followed by the copper IUD. Sterilisation is also over 99% effective but permanent.
Hormone-free options include: the copper IUD (over 99% effective), condoms (85–98%), diaphragm with spermicide, and fertility awareness methods (FAM). The copper IUD is the most effective non-hormonal option.
After stopping the pill, patch, or ring, fertility typically returns within 1–3 months. After removing an IUD or implant, fertility can return within days. After the injectable (Depo-Provera), it may take 6–12 months for fertility to fully return.
Yes. Combined pills often make periods lighter and more regular. The hormonal IUD and implant often reduce or stop periods. The copper IUD can make periods heavier. The progestogen-only pill causes irregular bleeding in many women.
Related: Birth Control & Period Changes · Menstrual Cycle Phases · How to Track Your Period