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    Birth Control: Pros and Cons of Hormonal Methods

    Birth Control: Pros and Cons of Hormonal Methods



    Topic Overview

    The following tables list some pros and cons of using hormonal Reference birth control Opens New Window methods.

    Combination pills, skin patch, or vaginal ring (estrogen plus progestin)

    Pros Cons
    • Does not protect against Reference sexually transmitted infections Opens New Window or Reference HIV Opens New Window
    • May not be as effective when taken with certain Reference medicines
    • May delay return of normal cycles
    • If used in early breast-feeding, may reduce milk supply
    • Pills must be taken every day.
    • Patches may not fully protect you from pregnancy if they are exposed to direct sun or high heat. This can release a high dose of hormone from the patch, which leaves less for the patch to release later in the week.
    • Patches deliver more estrogen than low-dose birth control pills do. Some research has found that women using the patch are more likely to get dangerous blood clots in the legs and lungs. The risk may be higher if you smoke or have certain health problems. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that you talk to your doctor about your risks before using the patch.

    Progestin-only pills, implant, or shot

    Pros Cons

    Intrauterine devices (IUDs)

    These advantages and disadvantages apply to both hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs.

    Pros Cons
    • Does not require interruption of foreplay or intercourse
    • Does not require cooperation of sex partner
    • More than 99% effective in preventing pregnancyReference 4
    • Easy to use
    • Most cost-effective method of birth control over time
    • Safe to use while breast-feeding
    • Can be removed whenever you have problems or want to stop using it. Fertility returns with the first Reference ovulation Opens New Window cycle following IUD removal.
    • Can be inserted after a normal vaginal delivery, a cesarean section, or a Reference first-trimester Opens New Window abortion
    • Hormonal IUD can relieve heavy menstrual bleeding and cramping in most women.
    • Does not provide protection against Reference sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Opens New Window or Reference HIV Opens New Window
    • Costs several hundred dollars for insertion. (This cost may be covered by your health insurance. Some community clinics may offer insertion and removal at a reduced rate or free to low-income clients.) If the IUD is expelled, it costs just as much to get a new one. Having an IUD removed is also costly. But if an IUD is used for 5 years or longer, it is the most cost-effective form of birth control.
    • Only a health professional can remove the IUD. Never attempt to remove the IUD yourself or allow a partner to try to remove it.
    • When inserted, an IUD can spread a genital infection into the uterus, leading to Reference pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) Opens New Window in the first months after insertion. This is why you are screened for STIs before getting an IUD.



    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference May 3, 2012
    Medical Review: Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
    Reference Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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