Which Method of Birth Control Best Prevents Pregnancy?
There are several methods of birth control. Planned Parenthood’s birth control section outlines each of these methods, describing: effectiveness, safety, access, benefits, disadvantages as well as insertion and removal procedures.
You inquired which method of birth control is best in preventing pregnancy. According to Planned Parenthood, effectiveness of each method is as follows:
- Outercourse and abstinence: 100%
- Sterilization (tubal ligation): 99%
- Vasectomy: 99%
- IUD: 99%
- Birth control implant: 99%
- Breastfeeding as birth control: 98%
- Birth control shot: 94%
- Birth control patch: 91%
- Birth control pill: 91%
- Birth control vaginal ring: 91%
- Birth control sponge: 88%
- Diaphragm: 88%
- Condom: 85%
- Female condom: 79%
- Withdrawal: 78%
- Fertility awareness methods: 76-88%
- Cervical cap: 71-86%
- Spermicide: 71%
TeenHealthFX recommends that all sexually active teenagers use condoms every time they have sexual intercourse. Condoms are the only form of birth control that can protect from sexually transmitted infections, and should be used in addition to another form of birth control for best protection.
FX encourages you to schedule an appointment with your doctor and/or OB/GYN in order to determine which method of best control best suits your body and personal preferences. If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199 for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist or contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood. A Planned Parenthood health center is a good option if you have concerns about cost or confidentiality issues. You can also contact your insurance company for a list of in-network providers.
TeenHealth invites you to visit the following resources for additional information:
