When you’re exploring birth control options, the sheer number of choices available can feel overwhelming. Having so many options is helpful because it increases your chances of finding something that will work well for you. Here are some important factors to consider when exploring birth control options. 

Birth control effectiveness 

Arguably the most important factor to consider is how effective the birth control method is. Most birth control options are at least 93% effective, with some being up to 99% effective. How well the birth control works depends on a variety of factors, one of the biggest of which is your compliance when using the birth control. For example, once you have an IUD inserted, you don’t need to do anything else, so your compliance isn’t going to affect how effective it is. However, if you take the pill, for example, you have to remember to take it every day. If you miss doses, this can decrease the effectiveness. 

Below, you’ll find the effectiveness and frequency of use of some of the most common reversible birth control options:

• The Implant is 99% effective and lasts for 5 years
• IUDs are 99% effective and last up to 3 - 12 years 
• The birth control shot is 96% effective, and you need to get one every 3 months 
• The vaginal ring is 93% effective, and you need to insert and remove it once per month 
• The birth control patch is 93% effective, and you need to replace it weekly 
• The birth control pill 93% effective, and you need to take it daily 

If you’re worried that you’ll forget to keep up with your birth control, implants, IUDs, or shots might be a good option for you. 

Side effects 

Side effects of birth control can vary widely from one type to the next and from one person to the next, even if they are using the same type of birth control. Some common side effects of birth control include nausea, breast tenderness, irregular bleeding, headaches, and mood changes. You might even find that you need to change to a different birth control option if you try one and have undesirable side effects. 

Comfort levels

Some types of birth control don’t cause pain when you use them, such as the pill or the patch. However, other types of birth control can cause pain, such as an IUD or an implant. In some cases, pain from birth control insertion can be intense, and the pain of the procedure may be enough to make you choose a different option. 

Cost 

Another very important consideration is the cost, as this could disclude some options from your list automatically. If you have insurance, you’ll want to check with your insurance provider to determine how much you’ll be expected to pay for various birth control options. 

Below, you’ll find general cost averages for some of the most common reversible birth control options: 

• Implant: $0 - $1,300
• IUD: $0 - $1,300
• Birth control shot: $0 - $150
• Vaginal ring: $0 - $200
• Patch: $0 - $150 
• Pill: $0 - $50

Your health and drug interactions 

You’ll want to consider your age, health history, and current conditions when choosing an option. Some types of birth control may not be compatible with certain health conditions or medications you may be taking. For example, the IUD may not be effective for people with a misshaped uterus, and many  hormonal birth control methods are not recommended for people with a history of blood clots. You can talk to your healthcare provider to determine which type of birth control might be the best fit for you. 

Availability

You can get some types of birth control online or via an app, such as the pill. This makes access easy for people who might not be able to visit the doctor’s office. Other options, such as an IUD or an implant require you to go into your healthcare provider's office to have a procedure done to place the birth control. 

Reversibility

Most birth control methods are reversible, including the following: 

• Implant
• IUD
• Birth control shot
• Vaginal ring
• Patch 
• Pill
• Condom
• Internal condom 
• Diaphragm
• Birth control sponge
• Spermicide and gel
• Cervical cap
• Fertility awareness method
• Withdrawal
• Breastfeeding
• Abstinence

Tubal ligation (getting your tubes tied) and vasectomies, however, are considered permanent forms of birth control. 

Safety 

Safety is a major concern when it comes to anything you put in or on your body. Some of the side effects of birth control can be devastating, and different options come with varying degrees of risk. 

For example, Depo Provera, a birth control injection, has been associated with breast cancer, brain tumors, osteroperosis, and infertility. In fact, many people have begun to file lawsuits against Pfizer due to the dangerous side effects of Depo Provera.

If you believe you have been negatively impacted after using birth control, a lawyer may be able to help you fight for justice. We can connect you with someone who can evaluate your case to determine if you are eligible.