Implant
Very effective and reversible. A clinician places a small rod under the skin of the upper arm.
Useful to discussIrregular bleeding is common; insertion and removal require a visit.
Uses hormonesContraception
Compare the tradeoffs that matter to your life.
Effectiveness is important. So are hormones, bleeding, privacy, reversibility, access, cost, STI protection, pregnancy timing, and how often you want to think about a method.
Explore methods
Before comparing
Pick your top three priorities.
Highest pregnancy preventionNo daily actionHormone-freeLighter or fewer periodsPrivate or discreetEasy to stopNo procedureAlso helps reduce STI risk
No method wins every category. Your health history, preferences, and access matter.
Method explorer
Start broad. Ask better questions.
Hormonal IUD
Very effective and reversible. Some people have lighter periods or no periods over time.
Useful to discussPlacement is a procedure; bleeding and cramping can change.
Uses hormonesCopper IUD
Very effective, reversible, and hormone-free.
Useful to discussPeriods may be heavier or crampier, especially at first; placement is a procedure.
Hormone-freeShot
Private and does not require daily action.
Useful to discussBleeding can change; timely repeat visits matter; return to fertility may take time.
Uses hormonesPill, patch, or ring
User-controlled hormonal options with different routines and possible cycle benefits.
Useful to discussEffectiveness depends on consistent use; health history affects which formulations fit.
Uses hormonesExternal or internal condom
User-controlled, hormone-free, and the main contraceptive category that also reduces many STI risks.
Useful to discussMust be used correctly each time; material and lubricant compatibility matter.
Hormone-freeDiaphragm or cervical cap
Reusable barrier methods placed before vaginal sex and used with spermicide.
Useful to discussFit, timing, spermicide irritation, and correct use affect effectiveness.
Hormone-freePermanent contraception
A permanent option for people certain they do not want future pregnancy.
Useful to discussRequires informed consent and a procedure; reversal should not be assumed.
Hormone-freeThis explorer is not a recommendation or eligibility check. Current medical guidance, individual risks, medication interactions, postpartum timing, and access vary.
Bring these to the visit
Make the decision more personal without making it less medical.
“What bleeding changes are common with this method?”
“Does my migraine, blood-pressure, clot, cancer, or medication history change the options?”
“How soon does it work, and when does fertility return after stopping?”
“What happens if I dislike it?”
“What will placement, pain control, removal, refills, or follow-up involve?”
“What should I use for STI prevention?”