Contraception

Birth Control Method	How effective is it?	Does it contain hormones?	How is it used?	Do I need a prescription?	Does it protect against STDs?
Sterilization	>99%	No	• Backup birth control may be required following procedure until confirmation of effectiveness • No other action required after surgery	No, but will need to see a surgeon.	No
IUD	>99%	Yes	• Inserted in uterus • Lasts 3-5 years	Yes, Insertion must be done by a healthcare professional	No
Intrauterine Copper Contraceptive	>99%	No	• Inserted in uterus • Lasts up to 10 years	Yes, Insertion must be done by a healthcare professional	No
Implant	>99%	Yes	• Implanted under skin of arm • Lasts up to 3 years • No additional action required	Yes, Insertion must be done by a healthcare professional	No
Injectable	91-94%	Yes	Injected every 3 months	Yes	No
Pills	91-94%	Yes	One pill taken at the same time daily.	Yes	No
Patch	91-94%	Yes	Applied to skin and changed weekly.	Yes	No
Ring	91-94%	Yes	Inserted monthly and left in place for 21-28 days.	Yes	No
Diaphragm	78-88%	No	Inserted prior to sex and left in place for 6 hours afterwards.	Yes, must be fitted.	No
Condom (Male)	78-88%	No	New condom worn by male partner every time during sex.	No	Yes (Latex or synthetic only)
Withdrawal	78-88%	N/A	Partner withdraws before ejaculation.	No	No
Spermicide	78-88%	No	Applied every time prior to sex.	No	No
Periodic Abstinence	25%	N/A	Abstaining or using condoms on fertile days	No	No
Chance	15%	N/A	No Birth Control	No	No