en are unfamiliar with what makes a birth control method effective. There's the tested rate, and then there's "real world" use. The tested rate is the scientifically controlled result of a test group using a method consistently with no errors for a year. This is called Efficacy. Then there is Effectiveness, which is how the method pans out in real life with typical use. Usually, the real-world effectiveness is lower than perfect use (which makes sense!), but we learned in the webinar that personal factors can make a method closer to perfect, or less than typical, based on the behavior of the user.
If you are on the Pill, do you always take it on time? Or do you sometimes forget? If you use a Fertiity Awareness Method, do you use protection or avoid sex when you know you are fertile? Or do you sometimes risk it? Studies show that if you like your method and are dedicated to it, you are more likely to use it more effectively. The following chart shows rates for typical and perfect use of birth control methods discussed during the CT EduSeries webinar.
But behavior is not the only factor to think about. What about safety? Do you experience sides effects with hormonal methods? If so, you may want to think about methods that do not cause side effects.
What about future plans? Are you a student who absolutely does not want to get pregnant at this time in your life? Then you may want to think about methods that are the most effective regardless of user error.
There are these and other factors to take into consideration when making a birth control decision. Listen to the webinar to find out more!
Posted in: Birth Control Effectiveness, Birth Control Options, Contraceptive Options, Womens Health
