When you're trying to avoid pregnancy, a one-size-fits-all approach isn't the best way to go about it. Of course you should consider your doctor's recommendation first, but here are a few ways to choose the best birth control for you. Consider risk factors you might have – genetics, disease, allergies and even lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity can affect your health and dictate which contraceptives are safest to use. First, consider what you want a contraceptive to do – prevent pregnancy, prevent disease or both. Barrier methods such as condoms are the most effective in preventing disease, but it's important to keep in mind that they're not perfect every time. Only abstinence will protect from disease and pregnancy. For women who are in monogamous relationships and prefer not to use any outside birth control, then fertility-based awareness methods – aka the "rhythm" method – may prevent pregnancy. Women can track when they ovulate to prevent pregnancy during those times. The method is about 75 percent effective, according to Planned Parenthood.
For women who are interested in hormone-based contraceptives, most are not good options for smokers; women older than 35; and those who have had breast cancer, high blood pressure, liver disease, heart disease or other conditions. Only a health professional can prescribe these options, which include birth control pills, rings, patches, subdermal (under the skin) implants and shots. Some options last for months at a time, so they may not be good options for women who want to become pregnant quickly. Likewise for the IUD, one of the most effective ways to prevent pregnancy. An IUD can last up to 12 years, depending on the type, and while the initial cost can be steep – up to $1,000 if not covered by insurance – it may save money in the long run. Barrier methods of preventing pregnancy include the condom – male and female, sponges, diaphragms and cervical caps. They are 75 to 85 percent effective and aside from the male condom, are inserted into the woman's vagina. Many do require the use of spermicidal jelly when inserting them as well. Women with allergies to silicone, latex or other materials may want to avoid this method.