Effectiveness of Available Methods
Different methods of birth control have different levels of effectiveness. This may depend on the method itself, or the commitment of the man or woman to use the chosen method consistently and as directed. For example, for the Pill to be most effective, a woman must commit to taking it as prescribed.
The typical effectiveness for various methods is outlined below. These effectiveness rates reflect a combination of effectiveness in clinical trials plus the estimated margin of human error (including inconsistent or improper use) for each of the methods listed. Talk to your doctor or health care professional to determine which choices may be right for you.
| Chance | 85 | 85 |
| Spermicides |
26 |
6 |
| Periodic Abstinence | 25 | |
| Calendar | | 9 |
| Ovulation Method | | 3 |
| Sympto-Thermal | | 2 |
| Post-Ovulation | | 1 |
| Cap | | |
Parous Women
(women who have given birth) Dorlands, p. 1372 |
40 | 26 |
Nulliparous Women
(women who have not given birth) Dorlands, p. 1293 |
20 |
9 |
| Sponge | | |
Parous Women
(women who have given birth) Dorlands, p. 1372 |
40 | 20 |
Nulliparous Women
(women who have not given birth) Dorlands, p. 1293 |
20 |
9 |
| Diaphragm |
20 |
6 |
| Withdrawal |
19 |
4 |
| Condom | | |
| Female | 21 | 5 |
| Male |
14 |
3 |
| Combined Pill and Minipill |
8 |
0.3 |
| IUD | | |
| Copper |
0.8 |
0.6 |
| LNG 20 |
0.1 |
0.1 |
| Depo-Provera |
0.3 |
0.3 |
| Implants | 0.05 | 0.05 |
| Female Sterilization | 0.5 | 0.5 |
| Male Sterilization | 0.15 | 0.10 |
*Among typical couples who initiate use of a method (not necessarily for the first time), the percentage who experience an accidental pregnancy during the first year if they do not stop use for any other reason.Trussel, p. 227
†Among couples who initiate use of a method (not necessarily for the first time) and who use it perfectly (both consistently and correctly), the percentage who experience an accidental pregnancy during the first year if they do not stop use for any other reason.Trussel, p. 227
