Dear Katherine,

What is a better birth control option: the IUD or the pill?

Sincerely,

Searching

Dear Searching,

As I’m sure you already know: Neither the IUD, nor the pill protect against STDs. So, as long as you’re using these forms with a tested partner, or along with a condom if it’s someone you don’t know, you’re well protected against pregnancy.

Let’s start with the pill: How great is your memory? If you’re the type of person whose calendar is color-coded and you never miss an assignment, class or appointment, then the pill might be great for you. Miss one pill, then miss another, and you’ll have to take Plan B, an emergency contraceptive. Plan B is just what it sounds like — for emergencies — so it’s not meant to be taken on a regular basis.

But if you’re the type of person who is pretty on top of things, the pill might be the way to go: It’s very effective and, depending on the kind, can provide other benefits besides birth control. For example, some brands help with acne, give you fewer periods and lessen menstrual cramping.

If you’re a little wary about putting hormones into your body like me (maybe it’s the hypochondriac in me, but I prefer non-hormonal birth control methods) the IUD is an option: One kind comes with hormones and one without. The hormonal IUD is inserted into your vagina by a doctor and releases the hormone progesterone, which actively works in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Depending on the type, the hormonal IUD can stay put anywhere from three to five years.

On the other hand, the copper IUD is the only super effective, non-hormonal birth control method around. With this type of IUD, copper wire is wrapped around the stem of the T-shaped IUD. Whereas the hormonal IUD needs to be taken out every few years, the copper IUD can stay there much longer: It can stay in place for up to ten years.

So, it depends: Do you prefer integrating your birth control method into your daily routine, or do you prefer — for the most part — forgetting about it? Do you prefer a method that doesn’t involve hormones, or do you not care?

Of course, there are other considerations to make as well when deciding what the best birth control option is for you (cost being one of them), so I would recommend speaking to a nurse at the health center or Planned Parenthood in order to make the best, most informed decision when it comes which birth control method is best for you.

Yours,

Katherine