Today, there are more birth control choices than ever before—from pills and patches to IUDs and condoms. Birth control, or contraception, refers to any method, medication, or procedure used to prevent pregnancy. While many forms are designed for people with ovaries, options for people with testes—such as condoms or vasectomy—are also available.¹

When selecting a birth control method, it’s essential to weigh potential side effects, such as nausea, breast tenderness, spotting, or headaches.² A conversation with your healthcare provider can help guide the best choice based on your health, daily habits, and personal goals. Birth control is also frequently prescribed for reasons beyond pregnancy prevention, including regulating periods, reducing acne, or managing pain.³

In the U.S., over 65% of women aged 15 to 49 report using some form of contraception.⁴ Here’s what to know about the different types, their side effects, additional benefits, and how to use them properly.

Common Types of Contraception

Your options for birth control may include:¹

  • Barrier methods: Condoms (male and female) physically block sperm from reaching the egg.
  • Emergency contraception: Pills or copper IUDs can be used shortly after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to reduce the chance of pregnancy. These methods don’t interrupt an existing pregnancy.
  • Hormonal methods: Includes the pill, patch, ring, shot, implant, and hormonal IUDs. These primarily prevent ovulation.
  • Intrauterine devices (IUDs): Small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus to prevent fertilization.
  • Fertility awareness methods: Track ovulation and avoid intercourse during fertile days or use barrier protection during that time.
  • Spermicides: Chemicals that immobilize or destroy sperm, available in gels, foams, and suppositories.
  • Permanent solutions: Tubal ligation (for females) and vasectomy (for males) are irreversible surgical procedures.

Possible Side Effects of Birth Control

Although effective, birth control methods may come with mild to serious side effects. These vary based on the method used and the individual.

Some common side effects include:⁵⁶

  • Headaches
  • Nausea or digestive discomfort
  • Breast tenderness
  • Spotting or irregular periods
  • Mood shifts or emotional changes⁷
  • Sleep issues⁸
  • Weight fluctuations
  • Changes in libido
  • Increased blood pressure or cardiovascular concerns

Method-Specific Side Effects:

  • Patches: May cause skin irritation, spotting, or elevate clot risk.⁶
  • Pills: Some may raise your risk of clots and high blood pressure, especially those with combined hormones.²⁶
  • Injections: Irregular bleeding and minor weight gain (often under 5 lbs) are common in the first year.⁹
  • IUDs: Hormonal types may cause mood changes, cramping, or heavier bleeding initially; copper IUDs might trigger intense periods. There's a small risk of ectopic pregnancy.¹⁰⁶
  • Spermicides: Can cause vaginal irritation; generally best for monogamous relationships with low STI risk.⁶
  • Vaginal rings: May lead to increased discharge, headaches, nausea, or rare complications like clotting and depression.¹¹

Other Health Benefits of Birth Control

While contraception is the primary goal, hormonal methods may also help with:³

  • Acne control
  • Managing anemia
  • Reducing menstrual pain
  • Regulating irregular cycles
  • Controlling PMS symptoms

It's important to note that only latex condoms protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. They also reduce the risk of HPV-related conditions like cervical cancer.

Choosing the Right Option

When selecting a method, consider:

  • Frequency of sexual activity
  • Number of sexual partners
  • Timing for future pregnancy
  • Health history
  • Effectiveness of the method
  • STI protection
  • Budget and insurance coverage

For instance, some vaginal rings may cost up to $2,000 per year without insurance.¹³ Always consult your provider to weigh your options.

Using Birth Control Effectively

While some methods like condoms and emergency pills are available without prescriptions, others require medical supervision or administration.

**Usage Guidelines:**¹⁴

  • Patch: Apply to designated body areas once a week for 3 weeks, then take a week off.
  • Pill: Take daily for 21 days; the fourth week is typically your period.
  • Shot: Receive every 3 months, usually at a clinic or sometimes at home.
  • IUD: Inserted by a provider; copper types last up to 10 years, hormonal types 3–7 years.
  • Ring: Worn inside the vagina for 3 weeks, removed for 1 week, then replaced.

Some methods allow you to skip your period, but speak with your provider before doing so.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Correct usage is key. Tips include:

  • Patch: If it comes loose for over 24 hours, use a new one and backup protection for 7 days.¹⁵
  • Pill: Starting within 5 days of your period provides immediate protection. Otherwise, wait a week for full effectiveness.¹⁶
  • Condoms: Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid using old or worn ones from your wallet.¹⁷
  • IUD: Hormonal versions take 7 days to work. Avoid pulling on the string.¹⁸
  • Ring: If left in beyond 4 weeks, remove it and use condoms for 7 days. Consider emergency contraception if needed.¹⁹

Summary

Choosing birth control involves more than just preventing pregnancy. Your choice should align with your health goals, lifestyle, and personal comfort. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best option for you—and keep in mind that only condoms protect against STIs.

If you’re considering contraception for additional benefits like regulating periods or managing acne, speak to your provider about options that offer those effects too.