Choosing the right contraceptive is a crucial and complicated decision. Some important questions to consider are budget, reversibility, family plan, and most importantly, effectiveness. Effectiveness is the most critical consideration while choosing contraception. Here are the five most effective forms of contraceptives.

1. Implants
Progestin-releasing implants are among the most effective contraceptives. It is rated over 99% effective with perfect use. Less than 0.05% of women with implants get pregnant each year. The matchstick-sized implant inserted in the arm thickens the cervical mucus and halts the release of eggs from the ovary. It is a long-acting, reversible contraceptive, making it a top choice for women. An additional advantage is that there is no ongoing maintenance. However, the big disadvantage is that it can have side effects like abnormal periods, mood swings, dizziness, and abdominal pain.

2. Copper IUDs
Unlike Implants, copper IUDs do not interfere with hormones. You can leave this device in the uterus for up to 10 years. Also, it is very effective; statistics show that it causes only 0.8 pregnancies per 100 women in a year. The copper ions make the uterus an inhospitable environment for sperms to thrive. Copper IUDs can also largely be used as an emergency contraceptive, as it is effective even a few days after unprotected sex. Like other implants, there is no worry about maintenance. Despite this, its disadvantage is that it disturbs the menstruation cycle, especially in women who already experience heavy and painful periods.

3. Condoms
With the advantage of preventing STDs and STIs, condoms are perhaps the most well-known and widely used contraceptives on the market. Its effectiveness, with perfect use, is rated at 97%, but typically the efficiency rate is 87%. It is an affordable contraceptive available in latex and non-latex options, reducing the risk of allergies. It is not entirely foolproof, and some feel it hinders sexual pleasure, but STI prevention and affordability make it a popular form of contraceptive.

4. Oral contraception
Oral contraception, otherwise known as pills, come in many types, estrogen releasing, progesterone, or a combination of both. Usually, they work by stopping ovulation, reducing the frequency of periods, and thickening the cervical mucus. Side effects include lighter periods, changes in skin color, and increased risk of blood clots. Therefore, it is necessary to talk to a doctor before you take them. With proper use, data reports less than ten pregnancies per 100 women a year. You have to take it daily without fail.

5. Sterilization
Choosing permanent sterilization is a tricky decision. This option is widely considered by couples who do not want any more children. Vasectomies are performed on men to cut the vas deferens. The cutting of the tube prevents sperm from being added to the ejaculate, preventing pregnancies but not ejaculations. Tubal ligation is the female equivalent, where the fallopian tube is blocked, tied, or cut. Thus, the eggs cannot reach the uterus, preventing pregnancy. Both are 99% effective and reversible up to a point.