There are several main types of birth control, each with different pros, cons, and how often you have to think about them. The best choice depends on your health, period pattern, whether you want kids later, and how much daily effort you’re okay with.

Long‑acting methods (LARC)

These are “set it and forget it” options that work for years and are among the most effective at preventing pregnancy.

  • Intrauterine devices (IUDs):
    • Copper IUD: hormone‑free, can last up to about 10 years, also used as emergency contraception in some settings.
* Hormonal IUD: slowly releases progestin, usually lasts about 3–8 years depending on brand.
  • Implant (under‑skin rod in the upper arm): releases progestin and typically works up to about 3 years before replacement.

These methods do not protect against STIs, so condoms are still recommended for STI protection.

Short‑acting hormonal methods

These use hormones but require remembering something on a daily, weekly, or monthly schedule.

  • Combined pill (estrogen + progestin): taken daily; also often used to make periods lighter or more regular.
  • Progestin‑only pill (“mini‑pill”): daily, an option for people who cannot take estrogen.
  • Patch: changed weekly; sticks to the skin and releases hormones.
  • Vaginal ring: flexible ring in the vagina, usually changed monthly depending on brand.
  • Injection/shot (e.g., depot medroxyprogesterone): given every few months by a clinician; some people notice changes in bleeding and weight.

These methods can be very effective when used correctly but are easier to “mess up” if pills are missed or appointments skipped.

Barrier and non‑hormonal methods

Barrier methods physically block sperm from reaching an egg and can be used only when you have sex.

  • External (male) condom: worn on the penis, helps prevent both pregnancy and STIs.
  • Internal (female) condom: worn inside the vagina, also offers STI protection.
  • Diaphragm or cervical cap: placed over the cervix before sex, usually with spermicide.
  • Sponge: soft device with spermicide that goes into the vagina before sex.
  • Spermicide or vaginal gel: chemicals that damage or slow sperm; can be used alone or with other barrier methods.

These usually have lower pregnancy‑prevention rates than LARC or hormones, especially with typical, real‑world use, but are hormone‑free and used only when needed.

Permanent methods (sterilization)

These are for people who are sure they do not want future pregnancies.

  • Tubal ligation (for someone with a uterus): surgery that blocks or seals the fallopian tubes so eggs cannot meet sperm.
  • Vasectomy (for someone with testes): blocks sperm from being in the semen ejaculated during sex.

These are considered permanent; reversal is not guaranteed and may be complex or unavailable.

Fertility awareness and emergency contraception

These are options either for planning around fertility or for “after the fact.”

  • Fertility awareness–based methods (“natural family planning”): track cycle days, cervical mucus, or temperature to avoid sex or use condoms when most fertile; effectiveness depends heavily on careful, consistent tracking.
  • Emergency contraception:
    • Pills taken within a limited time after unprotected sex (varies by product, often within 3–5 days).
* A copper IUD used within a specific window after sex can also serve as emergency contraception and then continue as long‑term birth control.

If you share your priorities (for example: “no hormones,” “help with heavy periods,” “don’t want to think about it often,” “need STI protection”), a more tailored breakdown of which types might fit you best can be given.