How Effective is the IUD?

The Intra-Uterine Device, or IUD, is an extremely effective kind of birth control. Both the Copper T type of IUD and the hormone-based IUD, Levonorgestrel, have failure rates of less than 1 percent. One of the major advantages of the IUD is that when the device is put into place, it will stay there for 3 to 10 years, providing highly effective birth control until the patient decides to have it removed. Another advantage of the IUD is that women who decide they are ready to have a child can have the IUD removed and start trying to conceive immediately. While other long-term options exist, for example, the contraceptive shot, the shot doesn't last as long as the IUD.

How Effective is Oral Contraception?

When oral contraception is used exactly as directed, it can be up to 99.7 percent effective. The oral contraceptive can be an effective non-permanent birth control method. However, it is important to note that very few people manage to use oral contraceptives perfectly. Even the most diligent person may miss a rare dose or take the dose late sometimes. When doses are skipped or otherwise missed, the effectiveness of oral contraception goes down steadily. Other options like the birth control patch have similar drawbacks in that the patient has to use them perfectly to get optimal results.

Is Sterilization a Good Option For Birth Control?

It depends on the patient. Sterilization via tubal ligation is a permanent birth control solution, and it has a failure rate of less than 1 percent. During this procedure, the OB/GYN will close, seal, or otherwise block the fallopian tubes. Women should only choose sterilization is they are done having children, or if they are absolutely certain that they don't want to have children. Each woman should talk frankly with her OB/GYN about her family planning needs and goals before making a decision about contraception.