Methods of Contraception – Comparison
Chart & Information
A vasectomy is a popular and safe method
to prevent conception. Here’s how it compares among other options
available to couples.
Perhaps the first and most important thing
to know is that a wide range of contraception options exist for couples to review
and consider. There is simply no right or wrong choice, but some options are
better for some people and situations than other options.
Therefore, always take the time to discuss
these options with your physician or qualified health care advisor and
be fully informed before making your decision. Some methods can have serious
side effects.
Select a contraceptive method from the following
list for more information about each.
Regardless of your choice, always follow
the directions or instructions of your physician consistently and carefully.
One of the major factors in the failure rate of many contraceptive methods
is simply that they were not followed correctly.
COMPARISON MATRIX
| METHOD |
USED BY |
TYPE |
Dr./
Rx?
|
SIDE
EFFECTS |
ACTUAL
FAILURE RATE*
|
USEFUL
DURATION
|
REVERSIBILITY |
| ABSTINENCE |
Both M & F |
Natural |
No |
No |
0.0% |
BRIEF |
Yes |
| CONDOM |
Male |
Barrier |
No |
No |
1 - 33% |
BRIEF |
Yes |
| DIAPHRAGM |
Female |
Barrier |
Yes |
Yes |
1 - 21% |
BRIEF |
Yes |
| HORMONE
IMPLANT |
Female |
Hormonal |
Yes |
Yes |
0.2% |
LONG-TERM |
Yes |
| HORMONE
INJECTION |
Female |
Hormonal |
Yes |
Yes |
0.4% |
LONG-TERM |
Yes |
| IUD |
Female |
Intrauterine |
Yes |
Yes |
0.5 - 5% |
LONG-TERM |
Yes |
| NO METHOD |
Both M & F |
n/a |
No |
No |
greater than 85% |
n/a |
n/a |
| ORAL 'THE
PILL' |
Female |
Hormonal |
Yes |
Yes |
0.16 - 3% |
BRIEF |
Yes |
| RHYTHM
METHOD |
Both M & F |
Natural |
No |
No |
14 - 47% |
BRIEF |
Yes |
| SPERMICIDES |
Female |
Barrier |
No |
No |
13 - 28% |
BRIEF |
Yes |
| TUBAL LIGATION |
Female |
Surgical |
Yes |
Yes |
0.2 - 0.4% |
PERMANENT |
Maybe |
| VAGINAL
POUCH |
Female |
Barrier |
No |
No |
28% |
BRIEF |
Yes |
|
VASECTOMY
|
Male |
Surgical |
Yes |
Yes |
0.02 -
0.2% |
PERMANENT |
Maybe |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| WITHDRAWAL |
Male |
Natural |
No |
No |
19% |
BRIEF |
Yes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
**Actual Rate signifies rate when method is used routinely
over a one year period.
Adapted from:
1. Trussell J, Hatcher RA, Cates W, Stewart FH, Kost K. A Guide to Interpreting
Contraceptive Efficacy Studies. Obstetrics and Gynecology 1990; 76:558-67.
2. Mishell DR, Jr. Contraception. New England Journal of Medicine 1989; 320:
777-787.
In Summary:
- A wide range of contraception options exists for your consideration.
- Some methods are better suited to some individuals or situations.
- Some methods have side effects; some can be serious.
- Consult with your doctor or health care professional.
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