Strategies for Best Contraceptive Success

We know that ‘perfect use’ of contraceptive methods is always better, more successful, less likely to produce side effects and pregnancy than ‘typical use.’ The question is how to maximize the effectiveness of your personal contraception in what we call the ‘zen of contraceptive success.’ Perfect use means never skipping a pill, and getting IUDs changed out in time, and putting on a condom right at the start of actual intercourse. All those little things that prevent slip ups.

According to James Trussell of the Population Research division of Princeton University there are 4 components of contraceptive success as measured statistically in users: the success that comes with perfect use, the success that comes with the typical patient use, the pregnancy (and really side effect rates) failure rates with inconsistent use, and finally, what % of patients are still using the method at the end of a year. And sort of a side bar is being as healthy as possible when you do decide to stop contraception and get pregnant!

I see these 4 factors as the zen of contraceptive success.

1. You need to continue your method! And do not stop until you have replaced this with another method. For instance, no matter how much you may like the contraceptive sponge, only 1/3 of women are using it at the end of a year. This is just not enough for success, no matter how effective during single use. IUD users who are teens are about 80% likely to be still using their contraception at the end of a year, but pill users who are teens are less than 50% likely to still be using their method at the end of a year. So when picking your next method, think about what you will be doing for contraception this time next year, and let that help be your guide.
2. Make sure you are adequately protected against STDs, and for this, you may need to discuss with your gyno. And some women may use one method for contraception, and another for protection against STDs.
3. Immediately report side effects of your method, most can be managed effectively, don’t just be miserable. Telehealth visits are available at Women’s Health Practice, so you are only a message away from us!

Plan what method is best for your desire to get pregnant. Here’s the one area you may want to also consult your partner. Ultimately contraceptive choice is yours to make