Which birth control method is best for you?

One of the best known and most widely used methods are condoms, both male and female. Male condoms are widely available, inexpensive and, above all, the only method that protects against STDs as well as preventing pregnancy.

Its advantages are clear: it does not require a prescription, it has no hormonal side effects, and its effectiveness is around 98% if used correctly. The main disadvantage is that it can break or slip off, and correct use requires care. Female condoms, although less popular, provide the same dual protection. However, they are more expensive, and some people may find them more difficult to insert.

When it comes to hormonal methods, there are several options: the combined pill, the patch, the vaginal ring or the subdermal implant. The pill is one of the most widely used alternatives in Spain, as it regulates the menstrual cycle, reduces period pain and is easy to use. Its main drawback is that it has to be taken every day at the same time, which can be difficult for some people. 

It also does not protect against STDs and can have side effects, such as headaches, nausea or mood swings. The patch and ring work in a similar way, releasing hormones continuously, but require fewer reminders: the patch is changed weekly, and the ring is inserted once a month. The implant is a small rod that is placed under the skin of the upper arm and lasts for three years, making it one of the most convenient and effective methods. Its main disadvantage may be irregular bleeding or the difficulty of accessing it through the public healthcare system in some areas.

The IUD (intrauterine device) is another type of contraceptive that is very widespread in Spain, especially among women who have already had children, although it is increasingly used by young, childless women. 

There are two types: the copper IUD and the hormonal IUD. The former releases copper ions that impede sperm motility, lasts between 5 and 10 years and has no hormonal effects. Its disadvantage is that it can increase menstrual bleeding and cause more intense cramps. 

The hormonal IUD, on the other hand, releases small doses of progestogen that reduce menstruation and pain, but can cause side effects similar to other hormonal methods. They last for 3 to 5 years. Both types require insertion and removal by a health professional.

For those who are sure that they do not want to have children in the future, there are definitive methods, such as tubal ligation for women and vasectomy for men. 

Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure that prevents the egg from meeting the sperm. Vasectomy, on the other hand, involves cutting the vas deferens to prevent sperm from getting out. 

Both are highly effective, with minimal complications and rapid recovery. The big disadvantage is that they are virtually irreversible methods and therefore require very mature decision taking.

Although less popular, some people resort to natural methods such as periods of abstinence, basal temperature or the cervical mucus method. These are based on observation of the menstrual cycle and abstaining during fertile days. 

They have no side effects, are free and do not require devices or hormones, but their failure rate is quite high. They are recommended only for people with very regular menstrual cycles and a strong commitment to self-observation.

Despite the wide variety of contraceptive methods in Spain, it is still essential to see a health professional for personalised guidance. Each body is different and what works well for one person may not be suitable for another. 

Factors such as age, health, medical history, lifestyle and whether protection against STDs is required influence this choice. Furthermore, it is essential to periodically review whether the chosen method is still the most appropriate one for each stage of life.