Quick answer
Which contraception is best for me?
The best contraception depends on effectiveness, hormones, bleeding preferences, medical history, privacy and how often you want to remember it. Coils and implants are over 99% effective with typical use; pills, patches and rings depend on correct use. Only condoms also reduce STI transmission.
Compare what matters to you
Consider effectiveness, whether hormones are acceptable, how periods may change, privacy, fertility-return timing and whether you can remember a daily or per-sex method.
Long-acting methods
The implant, copper IUD and hormonal IUS work for years and can be removed when wanted. They are useful when daily remembering is difficult.
Pills, patch, ring and condoms
User-controlled methods offer flexibility but require consistent use. Combined hormonal options are not suitable for everyone, including some people with migraine aura or clot risks. Condoms remain important with new or untested partners.
Common questions about choosing contraception
- What is the most effective reversible contraception?
- The implant, hormonal coil and copper coil are all over 99% effective and do not rely on daily remembering.
- Which contraception is hormone-free?
- Copper coils, external and internal condoms, diaphragms and fertility-awareness methods do not contain hormones, but effectiveness and suitability differ.
- Does contraception cause weight gain?
- Clear evidence of weight gain varies by method. The injection is most consistently associated with weight gain in some users; discuss personal concerns when choosing.