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Every contraception method, compared

From the implant to condoms – how well each one really works.

Contraception6 min read

Written by the Splash teamSources checked

On this page 6 sections
  1. Quick answer
  2. Perfect use vs typical use
  3. Set-and-forget methods (LARC)
  4. Remember-regularly methods
  5. Every-time methods
  6. Sources

Quick answer

  • Implant and coils are over 99% effective in real life.
  • Pill, patch and ring: over 99% perfectly, about 91% typically.
  • Condoms are the only method that also protects against STIs.
  • Contraception is free and confidential on the NHS.

There’s no single “best” contraception – just the best one for you right now. Your needs might change with your relationship, your health, your periods or your plans. Here’s the whole menu, with NHS effectiveness figures.

Perfect use vs typical use

Every method has two numbers. Perfect use is how well it works used exactly right every time. Typical use is real life – forgotten pills, late injections, condoms put on a bit late. The gap between them tells you how much a method depends on you remembering.

Set-and-forget methods (LARC)

  • Implant – over 99% (typical and perfect). Lasts 5 years.
  • Hormonal coil (IUS) – over 99%. Lasts 3–8 years depending on type.
  • Copper coil (IUD) – over 99%. Hormone-free. Lasts 5 or 10 years.
  • Injection – over 99% perfect, 94% typical. Every 8–13 weeks, depending on type.

Remember-regularly methods

  • Combined pill – over 99% perfect, 91% typical
  • Progestogen-only pill – over 99% perfect, 91% typical
  • Patch – over 99% perfect, 91% typical (new patch weekly)
  • Vaginal ring – over 99% perfect, 91% typical (new ring monthly)

Every-time methods

  • External condoms – 98% perfect, 82% typical
  • Internal condoms – 95% perfect, 79% typical
  • Diaphragm or cap – estimated 92–96% perfect (typical use unknown)
  • Natural family planning – estimated 91–99% perfect, 76% typical
91% vs 99%
The pill in real life vs perfect use – about 9 in 100 people on the pill get pregnant each year with typical useSee sources
MythHormonal contraception wrecks your fertility.
Fact

For most methods fertility returns quickly – straight away after coils and the implant. The injection can take up to a year.

Quick quizWhich of these has the biggest gap between perfect and typical use?
  1. The implant
  2. External condoms
  3. The copper coil
Show the answer

B. External condoms

Condoms are 98% with perfect use but 82% typically. The implant and coils are over 99% either way.

Sources

  1. NHS – How well contraception works at preventing pregnancy
  2. WHO – Family planning/contraception methods fact sheet
  3. NHS – What is the contraceptive implant?
  4. NHS – What is an IUS (hormonal coil)?

Written by the Splash teamSources checked

This is general information, not medical advice. Splash can’t diagnose. If you’re worried, talk to a GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). How we write and check articles.

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