Lesson 1
Not a replacement for waiting
Birth control lowers the chance of a pregnancy, but no method is perfect, and most do nothing to prevent STIs. Waiting is the only sure way.
Module 11 · Health & safety
Birth control
How methods compare, and why birth control isn’t a replacement for waiting.
Lesson 2
How methods compare
The numbers show about how many people out of 100 get pregnant in a year of typical use, meaning how people actually use a method, according to the CDC.
Most effectiveFewer than 1 in 100
The implant (0.1), hormonal IUDs (0.1 to 0.4) and the copper IUD (0.8) work for years once a clinician places them. Sterilization is also in this group.
Very effective with a routineAbout 4 to 7 in 100
The shot (4), given every three months, and the pill, patch and ring (7 each), which need to be taken or changed on schedule.
Used every timeAbout 13 to 21 in 100
External condoms (13), internal condoms (21) and spermicide (21). Fertility-awareness methods range from 2 to 23, depending on the method and how consistently it’s used.
Lesson 3
Condoms and STIs
Only condoms also lower the risk of STIs. They lower it but don’t remove it, and lambskin condoms don’t protect against STIs. Many people use condoms along with another method.
Lesson 4
Your rights and coverage
In Washington, people of any age can get birth control without a parent’s permission. Apple Health’s Family Planning Only coverage can pay for it, with a confidential option for insured people 26 or younger.
Check yourself
Myth or fact?
The pill protects you from STIs.
Myth. Only condoms lower the risk of STIs, and they lower it without removing it.
No birth control method is 100% effective.
Fact. Even the most effective methods fail for some people every year. Waiting is the only sure way.
Condoms remove all risk of STIs.
Myth. Condoms lower the risk but don’t remove it, and lambskin condoms don’t protect against STIs.
Questions people ask
Asked and answered.
Can I get birth control without my parents knowing?
In Washington, people of any age can get birth control without a parent’s permission. If you’re on a parent’s insurance, read the note about insurance statements in Your rights & privacy.
How much does it cost?
Often little or nothing. Apple Health and Family Planning Only cover birth control for people who qualify, and Washington requires state-regulated health plans to cover over-the-counter birth control, including condoms, with no copay or prescription.
Still have a question?
Ask privately