Effectiveness of Birth Control Forms in Preventing Unplanned Pregnancies

John ThomasJanuary 22, 2022

108 2 minutes read

Choosing a birth control form can be very frustrating, especially if you do not know the type that best suits your needs. Additionally, no contraceptive is 100% effective in preventing unintended pregnancies. On your appointment with your Boca Raton birth control specialist, the healthcare provider will evaluate your unique needs and explain the various forms, with their pros and cons. For instance, birth control pills might fail to be effective after long-term use of particular anti-seizure prescription medications.

How effective are contraception forms in preventing unplanned pregnancies?

The effectiveness of your form of contraception depends on the type you are using and whether you are using the form correctly. Since some methods might be more effective than others, your healthcare provider will advise you to follow instructions and use the form correctly for it to be effective. Additionally, some contraception forms will serve you longer than others, without remembering to use them daily. For instance, you will not have to keep a reminder when using contraception forms like implants. However, no contraception form is 100% and some have adverse side effects that might make life uncomfortable. To help you choose the most suitable birth control form, your gynecologist will highlight the contraceptives and tell you each form’s pros and cons.

What are the long-active reversible options you might have?

Unlike the daily pill, you will not have to remember using or taking long-term active contraception forms. The methods have minimal user failures and your healthcare provider might suggest them if you would still like to conceive after some time. Your options include:

Intrauterine system (IUS). An IUS might serve for around 3-5years, depending on the type. However, you can remove it anytime, before its actual expiry date, when it becomes less effective.
Intrauterine device (IUD). Like IUS, IUDs’ effectiveness depends significantly on the type of device your doctor will recommend. For instance, older forms might be less effective. The best part with IUDs is that the devices might serve you for approximately 5-10years.
Contraceptive implant. Your chances of getting pregnant when you have an implant are very minimal. The device will serve you for a minimum of three years. However, you may remove the implant anytime when you want to conceive.

How long does it take for birth control pills to work?

Though you can start taking the tablets at any time of the month, you may need to use a backup form like condoms for some time before the drugs start being effective. For instance, you will be safe instantly if you start using combination pills within the first five days of your menses. However, when you start combining the pills at any other time, you might need to use them for approximately 7days to ensure safety. Until the pill begins to work, your gynecologist might suggest another form like a condom in case of vaginal penetration.