Birth control is quite important in reproductive health when one wants to prevent pregnancy. There are a lot of options, making it overwhelming to determine the best and worst forms of contraception. Some of the factors one has to consider in choosing a birth control method relate to its effectiveness, convenience, cost, and side effects. This paper will discuss the best and worst birth control options based on these factors.
The Best Birth Control Options:
1. Oral Contraceptives: Oral contraceptives, commonly known as “the pill”, are one of the most popular and effective forms of birth control. They contain a combination of hormones, estrogen, and progestin, which work to prevent ovulation and thicken the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. The pill is highly effective, with a success rate of 91% when taken correctly. However, it offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
2. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): IUDs are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. They come in two types: hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonal IUDs release progestin and can last up to 5 years, while non-hormonal IUDs use copper and can last up to 10 years. They are more than 99% effective and are a low-maintenance option for those looking for long-term birth control.
3. Contraceptive Implants: Contraceptive implants are small rods inserted under the skin of the upper arm, releasing progestin to prevent pregnancy for up to 3 years. They are more than 99% effective and offer a long-term, low-maintenance option for individuals who do not want to worry about taking a daily pill.
4. Depo-Provera Shot: The Depo-Provera shot is an injection of the hormone progestin, which prevents pregnancy for 3 months. It is highly effective, with a success rate of 94%, but does not protect against STIs. It is a convenient option for those who do not want to take a daily pill.
5. Male and Female Condoms: Condoms are the only form of birth control that also provides protection against STIs. They are inexpensive, easily accessible, and have a success rate of 85% when used correctly. Condoms are a good option for those who want a non-hormonal method of birth control.
The Worst Birth Control Options:
Withdrawal Method:
The withdrawal method, also known as the “pull-out” method, involves the male partner pulling out of the vagina before ejaculation. While it is a commonly used method of birth control, it is not an effective one. With a success rate of only 78%, this method relies on the male partner’s self-control and timing, which can be unpredictable. Additionally, pre-ejaculate, or “pre-cum,” can contain sperm, which could lead to pregnancy even before ejaculation. The withdrawal method also does not protect against STIs, making it a risky option.
Spermicide:
Spermicide is a chemical that kills sperm and is available in various forms such as gels, films, and foams. While it is easily accessible and can be used in conjunction with other barrier methods, it is not a reliable form of birth control. With a success rate of only 72%, it is significantly less effective than other methods. Moreover, spermicide has been known to cause irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals, which could increase the risk of STIs.
Fertility Awareness Methods (FAMs):
FAMs involve tracking ovulation and abstaining from sex during the fertile window. This can be done through calendar tracking, basal body temperature, or cervical mucus monitoring. While FAMs can be empowering for individuals seeking to understand their bodies and fertility better, it is not a reliable form of birth control. The success rate varies between 76-88%, and it requires a high level of commitment, consistency, and knowledge of female anatomy and fertility.
Natural Family Planning (NFP):
NFP is a method of birth control that involves abstaining from sex during the fertile window, using a combination of calendar tracking, basal body temperature, and cervical mucus monitoring. It is similar to FAMs, but NFP is a more structured and comprehensive method. However, it is also not a reliable form of birth control. The success rate is between 75-88%, and like FAMs, it requires a high level of commitment, consistency, and knowledge of female anatomy and fertility.
Emergency Contraception:
Emergency contraception, also known as the “morning-after pill,” is used as a backup method to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. While it can be effective if taken within a specific time frame, it is not as reliable as other forms of birth control. The success rate is between 75-89% depending on when it is taken. Additionally, emergency contraception does not protect against STIs and should not be used as a primary form of birth control.
Finally, one must point out that the best contraception methods are maximally effective, easy to apply, and definitely protect from STIs, while the worst options are less effective, requiring an immense level of commitment and consistency in their use and not offering any protection against STIs. People are therefore advised to consult a health professional with the view of establishing the best birth control method based on various personal needs and preference.
