A recent major survey showed that eight in 10 reproductive-age women used birth control in the last year, with nearly half of them using multiple methods.
At Modern OBGYN Care, caring OB/GYNs Miguel Torres, MD, and Marcela Torres, MD, understand that choosing birth control is both necessary and deeply personal for many of our patients.
The good news is that in 2026, women have more safe and effective options than ever. We're here to help you find the method that fits your lifestyle, health needs, and long-term goals. Here’s our 2026 birth control guide to today’s most reliable options and how to decide what’s right for you.
Barrier methods, such as condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps, prevent pregnancy by blocking sperm from reaching the egg. They only work if used correctly every single time you have sex.
The success rates of barrier birth control vary.
These methods may be good choices if you prefer non-hormonal contraception or want pregnancy protection only when needed. They usually aren’t ideal if you want a more hands-off option or struggle with consistent use.
Birth control pills contain hormones that prevent egg release (ovulation) and regulate the menstrual cycle.
With perfect use, taking them at the same time each day, pills are highly effective, but with typical use (occasionally forgetting a day or taking pills at varying times) the effectiveness is around 91%.
Birth control pills may be right for you if you want cycle control and the ability to stop and restart easily. They may not be ideal if you frequently forget daily medications or want a more convenient option.
These hormonal options offer long-lasting pregnancy protection:
These methods eliminate daily management while providing excellent effectiveness with average use. But you still need to replace the birth control on time for it to stay effective.
Of the three, the patch leaves the most room for error, so its average effectiveness is around 93%. The shot is about 96% effective, and the implant is 99.9% effective.
These methods could be perfect if you want convenience and strong protection.
Intrauterine devices remain among the most effective and low-maintenance methods available. They are a "set it and forget it" method, in which our OB/GYNs place the device, and you don't have to worry about birth control for years. Options include:
Both last several years, are reversible, and work exceptionally well in real-world use. Effectiveness varies slightly from one brand and type to another, but overall IUDs are more than 99% effective. Copper IUDs last as long as 10 years, and hormonal IUDs vary but can last up to eight years.
Sterilization is a lifelong method designed for people who are certain they don't want a future pregnancy. Options include tubal ligation, tubal occlusion, and, in specific cases, hysterectomy for medical reasons.
Sterilization is extremely effective, but because it's permanent, it requires thoughtful decision-making. Our doctors ensure you understand all your non-permanent options before making a permanent sterilization choice.
There is no single “best” birth control option — only the best option for you. Today’s range of choices makes it easier than ever to match your contraception to your lifestyle, health needs, and future plans.
Whether you want short-term flexibility, long-term reliability, or a permanent solution, you can feel confident knowing we’re here to guide you through the best choices.
Ready to find birth control that fits your needs? Call Modern OBGYN Care to book your appointment with one of our experienced OB/GYNs.
