How effective are different birth control methods?
Effectiveness ratings are available, but you can change the overall effectiveness of some contraceptives depending on whether you use them correctly or not.
Highly-effective methods, such as birth control pills, become significantly less effective if you forget to take one. On the other hand, you can improve the effectiveness of methods that receive a low rating, such as condoms, when you consistently use them every time you have sexual intercourse.
- Permanent methods (tubal ligation or occlusion): Nearly 100% effective
- Intrauterine device (IUD): Nearly 100% effective
- Hormone implant: 99%
- NuvaRing® (vaginal ring): 98%
- Depo-Provera® (birth control shots): 97%
- Various hormone-based methods (pills, patch): 91-94%
- Diaphragm: 88%
- Male condoms: 82%
What are long-acting reversible contraceptives?
There are two types of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC): intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants. Both forms of birth control are as effective as sterilization, yet they’re completely reversible. They’re also safe for women of all ages.
What is an IUD?
An IUD is a flexible, T-shaped device inserted inside your uterus where it can stay in place for 3-10 years, depending on the type of IUD.
IUDs can physically prevent sperm from making it to the fallopian tubes to fertilize an egg, but they primarily work by releasing hormones or copper.
Hormone-containing IUDs slowly release a hormone that prevents pregnancy by changing the lining of your uterus and thickening mucus in your cervix so sperm can’t get through. Copper-containing IUDs directly affect sperm, acting as a spermicide and inhibiting their ability to move.
Two types of IUDs Dr. Alizade provides are:
- Mirena®: Releases hormones and prevents pregnancy up to five years
- Paragard®: Copper IUD that prevents pregnancy up to 10 years
What is permanent birth control?
When you’re sure you don’t want children, you may consider permanent birth control (sterilization). A minimally-invasive surgical procedure, called a tubal occlusion, blocks the fallopian tubes so eggs can’t come into contact with sperm.
During the procedure, Dr. Alizade cuts the tubes and closes each end, often with a device that causes scar tissue.
Dr. Alizade provides all types of birth control, but getting birth control begins with a thorough pelvic exam to be sure you don’t have an underlying problem ruling out a particular contraceptive method. To schedule an appointment, use online booking or call Elite OBGYN.
