There is no single best method of contraception, only the one that fits your health, plans and preferences. Start here, then compare every method in detail in our full contraception guide.
2 in-depth guides in this topic.
The most effective contraceptives are long-acting methods such as the implant and intrauterine devices, which prevent more than 99% of pregnancies because they do not depend on remembering anything. Pills, patches, rings and condoms work well too but are less effective in everyday use. Only condoms also protect against sexually transmitted infections.
8 min read
Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after sex without contraception or when a method has failed. The copper IUD is the most effective option and can be fitted up to five days afterwards. Emergency pills work best the sooner they are taken: levonorgestrel within 72 hours and ulipristal acetate within 120 hours.
6 min read
Long-acting reversible methods, namely the implant, the hormonal IUS and the copper IUD, are the most effective reversible options, preventing more than 99% of pregnancies. Sterilisation is similarly effective but intended to be permanent. These methods work so well because they do not rely on remembering to take or use something each day or each time.
For most methods, fertility returns soon after stopping, often straight away. The exception is the contraceptive injection, after which it can take up to a year for periods and fertility to return to normal. Sterilisation is intended to be permanent. If you are planning a pregnancy in the near future, mention this when choosing a method.
The levonorgestrel pill should be taken within 72 hours and the ulipristal acetate pill within 120 hours, but both work best the sooner they are taken. A copper IUD can be fitted up to five days afterwards and is the most effective option. If you are close to these limits, contact a pharmacy or clinic as soon as possible.
No. Emergency contraceptive pills mainly work by delaying or preventing ovulation, so a pregnancy does not start. They do not end an existing pregnancy and, according to the WHO, will not harm one if you are already pregnant. Medical abortion uses different medicines and is a completely separate treatment.