Best Birth Control With Least Side Effects

Nearly 99% of women in the United States use birth control at some point in their lives.

Birth control methods prevent pregnancy by various mechanisms, such as inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and preventing fertilization.

Certain birth control techniques are more effective than others and have fewer adverse effects. 

People should select the birth control method that is most effective for them, as there are no birth control methods that are without adverse effects.

This article explores the safest and most effective birth control with least side effects.

The least side effects birth control options

There are two main types of birth control: hormonal and non-hormonal.

When it comes to birth control, finding the right method with minimal side effects is crucial.

Before selecting a specific option, it’s crucial to understand the methods of birth control.

It includes injections, implants, and pills.

Reading about the effectiveness and side effects of different popular birth control options will help people find the ideal birth control with least side effects for them.

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

This is a small device inserted into the uterus by a physician for pregnancy prevention. 

IUDs are available in hormonal and copper (non-hormonal) formulations. 

While adverse effects are inevitable with all methods of contraception, the IUD (intrauterine device) appears to have a minimal number of them. 

It has, therefore, gained popularity among women of all ages.

They are over 99% effective and can last several years, depending on the type.

Hormonal IUDs are devices that release hormones directly into the uterus, offering effective contraception with lower systemic hormonal exposure.

Non-hormonal copper IUDs prevent fertilization by altering sperm mobility and viability, offering long-term effectiveness without hormonal side effects.

Although both have their share of adverse effects, they are generally less severe than those of many other contraceptive methods.

The following are some of the adverse effects reported by users:

• A painful IUD insertion process
• Increased frequency of menstrual cycles (in the case of copper IUD users)
• Pain or discomfort in the abdominal region 
• Spotting or bleeding
• Erratic Intermittent menstrual cycles

Barrier methods

They are extremely safe for the user, having few or no serious side effects. 

The typical forms of barrier contraception are condoms (male and female), cervical cap, diaphragm, and contraceptive sponge.

These methods create a physical barrier between egg cells and sperm to prevent pregnancy. 

Side effects of barrier methods can include:

• Enhanced risk of developing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) when using a diaphragm
• Leaving a diaphragm or cervical cap in for longer than 24 hours increases the risk for Toxic Shock Syndrome
• Some people may have allergies to the chemicals used in spermicide creams or other spermicides, developing irritation of the vagina or penis
• Problems associated with the female condom, such as irritation and allergic reactions to the polyurethane

However, barrier methods are less effective at stopping pregnancy than other contraceptive methods, such as birth control implants, injections, or IUDs. 

Every year, 18 to 28 women out of 100 will become pregnant when using barrier methods.

These methods work best when used correctly every time you have sex.

Birth control implant

The implant is a thin, flexible rod placed beneath the upper arm’s skin, releasing hormones and protecting for several years. 

It is over 99% effective, discreet, and provides long-term contraception with minimal side effects.

Fewer than one woman in 1,000 who has the implant as contraception for three years will get pregnant. 

The birth control implant is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects may occur, which typically resolve within a few months. 

These include:

• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Mood changes
• Abdominal or back pain
• Nausea
• Breast pain
• Headaches or dizziness

Additionally, there is a small risk of complications during the insertion of the implant, such as pain, bruising, swelling, redness, and infection.

Birth control shot

Depo-Provera shot, administered every three months, offers reliable contraception without daily maintenance.

Its hormonal impact is limited, making it a low-side-effect option.

It is over 99% effective if used correctly and has minimal side effects for most women.

This type of birth control contains the hormone Progestin, which typically prevents ovulation by stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg. 

Progestin also thickens cervical mucus, preventing sperm from getting to an egg.

The most common side effects of birth control shots are:

• Bleeding for longer than normal
• Spotting (brown discharge or light bleeding in between periods)
• Not getting period at all

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Birth control pills

Oral contraceptives, also known as “pills,” have been around for several decades. 

There are varieties of birth control pills, each with a distinct amount of Estrogen and Progesterone (two female sex hormones).

Certain birth control pills have been associated with fewer side effects, such as low-dose combination pills or Progestin-only pills. 

Combination pills and Progestogen-only pills are more than 99% effective if always used correctly but often less than 95% effective with typical use.

Progestin-only pills are ideal for women sensitive to Estrogen; these pills focus solely on Progestin, providing an alternative with fewer side effects.

However, several frequently encountered side effects of birth control pills include:

• Breast tenderness
• Nausea 
• Headache 
• Vomiting
• Spottiness or bleeding between periods

Vaginal ring

Vaginal rings are another type of birth control that is more than 99% effective if always used properly but less than 95% effective by itself.

NuvaRing is a low-dose combination of Progesterone and Estrogen. 

After inserting the ring into the vagina for twenty-one days, it is removed for seven days to facilitate menstruation.

While generally regarded as well tolerated, certain adverse effects may manifest. 

Among them are:

• Unexpected bleeding 
• Headaches 
• Reduced sexual desire 
• Soreness in the breasts 
• Vaginal irritation, infections, or increased secretions

Conclusion

Understanding personal preferences and health considerations is crucial, as almost all birth control has side effects to a varying degree. 

Weight gain, breast tenderness, nausea, bloating, blood clots, and cardiac issues may develop.

Birth control pills are noninvasive and effective, but they have major side effects.

IUDs are hormonal or non-hormonal (copper), and their risks include insertion pain, heavier, more painful periods, and uterine inflammation. 

Ordinary condoms are less effective and might create serious health issues due to their ease of misuse and chemicals, spermicides, and aroma.

To sum up, Depo-Provera, an injectable contraceptive,  possibly has the highest negative effects. 

Oral contraceptives may have the second highest number of negative effects, whereas IUDs and vaginal rings may have the fewest.

Consultation with a healthcare provider ensures tailored advice, addressing individual needs and concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

• nhs.uk
• plannedparenthood.org