How well do different kinds of birth control work?

All birth control methods work the best if used correctly and every time you have sex. Be sure you know the right way to use them. Sometimes doctors don\’t explain how to use a method because they assume you already know. Talk with your doctor if you have questions. They are used to talking about birth control. So don\’t feel embarrassed about talking to him or her.

Some birth control methods can take time and practice to learn. For example, some people don\’t know you can put on a male condom \”inside out.\” Also, not everyone knows you need to leave a little space at the tip of the condom for the sperm and fluid when a man ejaculates, or has an orgasm.

The male latex condom is the only birth control method proven to help protect you from STIs, including HIV. Research is being done to find out how effective the female condom is at preventing STIs and HIV. For more information, see Will birth control pills protect me from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS?

Here is a list of some birth control methods with their failure rates and possible side effects.

Office on Women\’s Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, womenshealth.gov (or girlshealth.gov)