Today there are many contraceptive methods. The right choice depends on your health, your plans and what feels comfortable for you.

Main types

The World Health Organization (WHO) groups methods roughly like this:

  • Long-acting and highly effective: implants, intrauterine devices (IUDs) and sterilization.
  • Methods needing regular use: pills, injections, patches and the vaginal ring; these work well when used correctly.
  • Barrier methods: condoms, diaphragms and others.
  • Awareness-based methods: for example tracking fertile days or withdrawal; the WHO describes these as less reliable.

The WHO states that all methods included in its guidelines are considered safe for most people. Condoms are the only method that protects against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

What to think about when choosing

According to the CDC, it helps to consider: