Contraception Comparison Tool
Compare all birth control methods to find the right fit for you.
| Method | Type | Effectiveness | Duration | Reversible | STI Protection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Combined Pill | hormonal | 93–99% | Daily | ✅ | ❌ |
| Progestin-Only Pill (Mini-Pill) | hormonal | 93–99% | Daily | ✅ | ❌ |
| Hormonal IUD (Mirena/Kyleena) | hormonal | 99%+ | 3–8 years | ✅ | ❌ |
| Copper IUD (Paragard) | non-hormonal | 99%+ | Up to 10 years | ✅ | ❌ |
| Implant (Nexplanon) | hormonal | 99%+ | 3 years | ✅ | ❌ |
| Condom (Male) | barrier | 85–98% | Single use | ✅ | ✅ |
| Condom (Female) | barrier | 79–95% | Single use | ✅ | ✅ |
| Diaphragm/Cervical Cap | barrier | 71–94% | Reusable | ✅ | ❌ |
| Fertility Awareness Method | non-hormonal | 76–99% | Ongoing | ✅ | ❌ |
| Tubal Ligation | permanent | 99%+ | Permanent | ❌ | ❌ |
| Vasectomy | permanent | 99%+ | Permanent | ❌ | ❌ |
| Emergency Contraception (Plan B) | hormonal | 75–89% | Single use | ✅ | ❌ |
Recommended Reading on Contraception
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How to read these effectiveness numbers
Contraception effectiveness is usually given as two figures. Perfect use is how well a method works when it is used exactly as directed every time. Typical use is how well it works for real people, including missed pills and condoms that slip. The ranges in the table run from typical to perfect use. The gap between them is largest for methods that depend on daily or per-act action, and nearly zero for methods you do not have to think about once they are in place.
Long-acting reversible contraception
Hormonal IUDs, the copper IUD and the contraceptive implant are each more than 99 percent effective, according to the CDC, because there is little room for user error. They last from three to more than ten years depending on the device, and fertility returns quickly after removal. The copper IUD contains no hormones and can also be used as emergency contraception if placed within five days of unprotected sex.
Short-acting hormonal methods
The pill, patch, ring and injection are highly effective with perfect use but less so with typical use, because pills get missed and injections get delayed. Combined methods that contain estrogen are not recommended for some people, including those who smoke and are over 35, or who have a history of blood clots, certain migraines with aura, or some heart conditions. The progestin-only pill and the injection are options when estrogen is not suitable.
Barrier and awareness methods
External and internal condoms are the only methods in the table that also reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, which is why many people use condoms alongside another method. Diaphragms, cervical caps and spermicide are less effective with typical use. Fertility awareness methods require daily tracking and abstaining or using a barrier on fertile days.
Permanent methods
Tubal procedures and vasectomy are intended to be permanent. Reversal is not always possible or successful, so they are best for people who are sure they do not want future pregnancies.
Choosing with a clinician
Good questions to bring to an appointment include how often you want to think about birth control, whether you want to avoid hormones, whether you want lighter periods, your medical history and medicines, and when you might want to become pregnant. The CDC's US Medical Eligibility Criteria guide which methods are safe for which health conditions.
Emergency contraception appears in the table for reference, but it is meant for occasional backup use, not ongoing birth control. Options include levonorgestrel pills, ulipristal acetate by prescription, and the copper IUD.
Sources: CDC: Contraception; CDC: US Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use; ACOG: Birth control FAQs; Mayo Clinic: Choosing a birth control method.