Some methods of contraception are more effective than others.
For example, the contraceptive implant works very well at preventing pregnancy. It's over 99% effective if used correctly all the time (sometimes called perfect use).
This means that if 100 women use the implant for a year, less than 1 will get pregnant in that time.
This page lists the methods in order of how well they work if used correctly all the time, starting with the most effective first.
It also shows how well each method works if not used correctly all the time. Incorrect use (sometimes called typical use) includes things like forgetting to take your pill.
Important
Contraception is less effective if not used correctly all the time.
Incorrect use (also called typical use) includes things like missing a pill, a condom coming off during sex or forgetting to replace a vaginal ring.
How effective contraception methods are
Method | Correct use | Incorrect or typical use |
---|---|---|
Method |
Correct use
Over 99% |
Incorrect or typical use
Over 99% |
Method |
Correct use
Over 99% |
Incorrect or typical use
Over 99% |
Method |
Correct use
Over 99% |
Incorrect or typical use
Over 99% |
Method |
Correct use
Over 99% |
Incorrect or typical use
94% |
Method |
Correct use
Over 99% |
Incorrect or typical use
91% |
Method |
Correct use
Over 99% |
Incorrect or typical use
91% |
Method |
Correct use
Over 99% |
Incorrect or typical use
91% |
Method |
Correct use
Over 99% |
Incorrect or typical use
91% |
Method |
Correct use
98% |
Incorrect or typical use
82% |
Method |
Correct use
95% |
Incorrect or typical use
79% |
Method |
Correct use
92 to 96% (estimate) |
Incorrect or typical use
Unknown |
Method |
Correct use
91 to 99% (estimate) |
Incorrect or typical use
76% |