Comprehensive Birth Control Finder

Find the contraceptive method that best fits your lifestyle, health needs, and preferences. This interactive tool weighs your priorities to suggest personalized options.

Your Personalized Recommendations

Based on your answers, here are the birth control methods that best align with your lifestyle, priorities, and health profile.

Want to discuss these options with a healthcare provider? Find resources at Planned Parenthood or Bedsider.

Myth-Busting Contraception

Myth The pill makes you gain a lot of weight.
Extensive research shows no direct link between the combination pill and significant weight gain. Some may experience slight water retention initially, but it usually subsides.
Myth IUDs are only for people who have had children.
False. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends IUDs as a safe and highly effective option for adolescents and nulliparous women (those who haven't given birth).
Myth Hormonal birth control affects your future fertility.
There is no evidence that hormonal birth control impacts long-term fertility. Once you stop taking it, your natural cycle and fertility typically return within a few months.
Myth You must take the pill at the exact same minute every day.
While the progestin-only pill (mini-pill) requires a strict 3-hour window, the combination pill has a larger window of forgiveness (up to 24 hours), though taking it consistently builds a good habit.
Medical Disclaimer This tool is designed for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new birth control method.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most effective birth control method?
Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like the hormonal implant and IUDs are the most effective methods, with success rates over 99% because they eliminate user error.
Can I get birth control without a prescription?
Yes. External condoms, internal condoms, spermicides, and sponges are available over-the-counter. Additionally, the progestin-only pill Opill is now available over-the-counter in the US.
How soon after stopping birth control can I get pregnant?
For most methods (like the pill, patch, ring, and IUDs), fertility typically returns within a few weeks to months. The exception is the birth control shot (Depo-Provera), which can delay fertility return for up to 10 months.
Does birth control protect against STIs?
Most birth control methods do not protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Only barrier methods, such as external and internal condoms, provide STI protection.
Are there non-hormonal birth control options?
Yes! The copper IUD (Paragard), external and internal condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and fertility awareness-based methods (FAMs) are entirely hormone-free.