Choosing the right birth control method is a lot like choosing when to have sex: it needs to feel comfortable for you and it needs to be planned ahead. By respecting your body you’ll get the best results!
When deciding on the BC (birth control) method that is right for you, ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I want both pregnancy and STD protection? If the answer is yes, condoms are the right choice for you. Only a condom protects against pregnancy and STDs when used correctly. Or better yet, you can use a more effective form of BC with a condom, such as the IUD or implant. These two long-acting methods are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy – you can’t beat that!
- Am I comfortable using it? Certain BC methods like the ring or the diaphragm have to be put into the vagina, similar to a tampon. Other methods, like the internal condom, may cause irritation during sex.
- What is practical and convenient for my lifestyle? If you find daily habits (like flossing) annoying, the pill (which you take every single day) probably won’t work for you. If you don’ want anyone else to know that you’re taking BC, you’ll want to think twice about the patch, which you wear visibly on your body. In these cases, getting an IUD or implant during a one-time procedure might be the better choice. And methods like the shot are completely private and hidden.
Want more info? You can try out this great quiz from Planned Parenthood to help you decide which method works best for you!
When it comes to BC there’s a world of possibilities -- what is most important is that you visit a clinic to talk to a health specialist who can help you choose what is right for you.