The IUD
A small, t-shaped piece of plastic that goes in a woman’s uterus and protects against pregnancy for three to 12 years (but can be removed any time). Major perks include:
- Super effective.
- Always available (one-time insertion and you’re done!)
- Completely private.
- Long-term coverage (between three and 12 years)
The Implant
A tiny matchstick-sized rod that goes in a girl’s upper arm; it’s good for up to three years (but can be removed any time). Major perks include:
- Super effective.
- Always available (one-time insertion and you’re done!)
- Completely private.
- Long-term coverage (three years)
The Shot
Just what it sounds like—a shot that a girl gets; you need a new shot once every three months. Major perks include:
- Super effective.
- Always available (if you keep up with your appointments).
- Completely private.
- Longer-term coverage (shots are good for three months at a time).
Some-Fuss Methods
Waiting
Choosing not to have sex (until you’re married, until you’re ready…whatever) is the only 100% effective method of birth control. Major perks include:
- Super effective.
- Always available.
- Also protects against most STDs (though some STDs can spread through kissing or genital-to-genital contact).
- No visit to a medical provider required.
Minor drawbacks include:
- You have to be perfect every single time and it can be hard to say no!
- If you change your mind and decide to become sexually active, you have to plan ahead and have some kind of birth control on hand.
The Pill
A pill a girl takes at about the same time every day; there are lots of different options. Major perks include:
- Effective (when used correctly)
- Relatively private
Minor drawbacks include:
- Some women have trouble remembering to take their pill or to take it at the same time every day which is key to making sure it’s effective, so use a condom, too.
- Like no-fuss methods, does not protect against STDs.