The most effective kind of birth control is the one that fits your lifestyle and meets your needs. Since our bodies are so different from one another’s, one type of birth control does not suit everyone. Furthermore, picking the right method seems difficult due to many options out there. Therefore, we have narrowed the list to the 5 most common birth control methods. Read on to find out what they are.
Tubal ligation
In this procedure, the doctor seals or ties up the two fallopian tubes in the body. This restricts the transportation of the eggs to the uterus. It is a permanent birth control method and can rarely be reversed.
Effectiveness
Tubal ligation is more than 99% effective.
Side effects
Some side effects could be bleeding, infections, or even ectopic pregnancy (A condition in which the egg grows outside the uterus).
Implants
A birth control implant is a small needle-like structure containing progestin. It is inserted in one’s arm and can protect you from pregnancy for up to 3 years at a time. It can also be reversed if you want to get pregnant.
Effectiveness
Birth control implants are 99% effective.
Side effects
Implants may cause certain side effects, such as weight gain, changes in one’s period cycle, and breast tenderness.
Shots
Using an injection, a doctor will give you a progestin dose once every three weeks. It protects you from pregnancy right from the first shot. It is essential to take your shots on time. You will not ovulate for up to 12 months following the shot.
Effectiveness
When used correctly, it is effective about 99% of the time. Else, it is effective 94% of the time.
Side effects
Side effects can vary from mild headache or dizziness to severe depression and reduced bone density.
Patches
A birth control patch is supposed to be stuck on either your abdomen, arm, or buttocks. The skin then absorbs progestin and estrogen from it. It is vital to use a new patch every week for three weeks and skip the fourth one so you have your period.
Effectiveness
It is 99% effective when used correctly; if not, it is effective 91% of the time.
Side effects
One may experience skin reactions, abdominal pain, or nausea. More severe side effects could be heart attacks, blood clots, or cancer.
Pills
A pill that contains estrogen and progestin is taken every day at the same time. The dosage could be prescribed for a month or even a year. It does not protect one from STDs; however, it effectively prevents pregnancies.
Effectiveness
When used ideally, birth control pills are 99% effective. If not used, it is only 91% effective.
Side effects
Extended use of birth control pills can cause fewer or no periods, breast tenderness, and nausea.
