How to Choose the Best Birth Control Method in Chicago
Most are aware of the dangers and risks of STIs, but what about your birth control options in Chicagoland?
>Only two-thirds of Illinois public schools provide comprehensive sex education.
Are all contraceptives safe? What side effects should one be concerned about? And which is the least likely to have a negative medical impact on your body?
Birth control isn’t just about preventing pregnancy. It’s about control. Confidence. And peace of mind. At Women’s Aid Center, we know choosing the right contraception can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available.
Whether you’re new to birth control or re-evaluating your current method, we’re here to help step by step.
Why Choosing the Right Birth Control Matters
Every woman’s body, lifestyle, and health history is unique. And so is your reproductive journey. That’s why it’s critical to weigh all your options—not just the most popular or trending options you see on social media.
A good place to start? Ask the right questions:
- Do I need protection against STIs?
- How often do I want to think about birth control?
- Am I planning to get pregnant in the near future?
- Do I want hormones or prefer hormone-free options?
Once you have an idea of what you intend to use birth control for, you need to understand the different types of birth control so you can make an informed decision.
>Here’s a list of the most common Birth Control & Prevention types you’ll see today.
Chicagoland Birth Control & Prevention Methods
1. Birth Control Pills (Oral Contraceptives)
Best for: Women who can remember a daily routine and want a hormonal method that offers cycle control.
What it is: Pills that contain estrogen and/or progestin to prevent ovulation.
Pros:
- Regulates periods
- May improve acne
- Can reduce menstrual cramps and period symptoms
Cons:
- Doesn’t protect against STIs
- Must be taken daily at the same time
- May cause side effects like nausea, mood changes, or breast tenderness
Consider if: You want a non-invasive method and feel confident managing a daily pill routine.
2. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
Best for: Women seeking long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) that requires little maintenance.
Types:
- Hormonal IUD (e.g., Mirena, Liletta): Releases progestin
- Copper IUD (e.g., Paragard): Hormone-free and uses copper as a sperm deterrent
Pros:
- 99% effective
- 3 to 10 years of protection
- Discreet and maintenance-free
Cons:
- Does not prevent STIs
- Irregular bleeding or spotting early on
- Requires insertion and removal by a provider
Consider if: You want set-it-and-forget-it contraception that lasts for years.
3. Contraceptive Implant (Nexplanon)
Best for: Women who want ultra-low maintenance, long-term protection, and the most effective option for preventing pregnancy.
What it is: A matchstick-sized rod placed under the skin of your upper arm that releases progestin.
Pros:
- 99% effective
- Quick procedure
- Up to 3 years of protection
Cons:
- May cause irregular bleeding or spotting
- Requires a medical procedure for insertion/removal
Consider if: You want hormonal birth control but don’t want to think about it daily, monthly, or yearly.
4. Condoms (Internal and External)
Best for: Everyone! Especially those who want dual protection against STIs and pregnancy.
What it is: Barrier method that blocks sperm from entering the uterus.
Pros:
- No hormones
- Readily available
- Protects against STIs
Cons:
- Must use correctly every time
Consider if: You want non-hormonal protection, or to pair with another method for added safety.
5. Birth Control Patch & Vaginal Ring
Patch: A sticker worn on the skin that delivers estrogen and progestin (similar to birth control pill, only that the method of application is different)
Ring (e.g., NuvaRing): A flexible ring inserted into the vagina monthly
Best for: Women who want hormone-based methods but dislike daily pills.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Monthly or weekly maintenance
- Regulates cycles & lightens periods
Cons:
- Hormonal side effects
- Risk of forgetting to change patch/ring
Consider if: You want fewer reminders than a daily pill but more control than long-term options.
6. Birth Control Shot (Depo-Provera)
Best for: Women looking for a middle-ground option (not daily, not long-term).
What it is: A shot of progestin given every 12 weeks.
Pros:
- Quarterly dose
- Can reduce or eliminate periods
Cons:
- Must return to the clinic every 3 months
- Possible bone density concerns with long-term use
- Potential side effects include weight gain or mood changes
Consider if: You want a low-commitment method and can commit to regular appointments.
How Do I Know If My Birth Control Isn’t Right for Me?
Birth control is personal, and sometimes, what worked in the past might not be the right fit anymore.
This is why it’s important to understand which birth control option is right for you.
You might think it’s through trial and error, but that’s not the case.
Knowing the facts is just the start. The rest depends on choosing a birth control option that doesn’t interfere with your lifestyle.
Common signs that could signal a specific type of birth control isn’t for you:
- Your partner interferes with your method
- You forget to take your method consistently
- You’ve had major health changes or concerns
- You’re experiencing severe or new side effects (migraines, mood swings, breakthrough bleeding)
If any of this sounds familiar, you may benefit from a method review and adjustment.
Choosing the Best Birth Control Option for You in Chicago
Your choice should reflect your health needs, future plans, lifestyle, and personal comfort.
It’s not always about preference, but what your goals are.
For example, if you want an option that helps with your periods and is highly effective at preventing pregnancy, you can go with a birth control implant, shot, or vaginal ring.
Birth control pills, one of the most common forms of contraceptives, are also effective except. You have to commit to taking it daily at the same time. At Women’s Aid Center, we help you explore every option, judgment-free.
Some patients prioritize:
- Cost and insurance coverage
- Hormone-free options due to side effects
- Fertility preservation for future family planning
- Low-maintenance methods due to busy schedules
>That’s why we offer personalized consultations, so you feel confident in your choice.
What matters is talking to your gynecologist first to help you understand what’s right for you depending on your sexual activity, hormones, goals, and medical background/history.
FAQs About Birth Control
What is the best form of birth control for me?
The best form depends on your lifestyle, goals, and body. If you want long-term protection, IUDs and implants are great options. If you prefer more control, pills, patches, or rings might suit you better. We can help you decide.
What is the best birth control with the least side effects?
Non-hormonal methods like the copper IUD or condoms generally have fewer systemic side effects. Some women also do well on low-dose hormonal pills. It’s all about your unique body chemistry.
What happens if I don’t take my birth control correctly?
Missing doses or incorrect use can lower the effectiveness of your method. With pills, this can mean risk of pregnancy. With patches, rings, or shots, timing is key. Consistency is crucial.
What is the safest birth control pill?
Most modern combination pills are safe for healthy women. Your provider will assess your medical history to determine which formulation is safest and most effective for you.
How do I know if it’s time to switch methods?
If you’re unhappy with your side effects, lifestyle has changed, or your method feels like a hassle, it’s worth revisiting your options. Let’s talk about what works better for you now.
Questions? Let’s Talk
Choosing a birth control method in Chicagoland isn’t just a medical decision—it’s a personal one. Women’s Aid Center is here to support and guide you through the process.
At Women’s Aid Center, our team provides:
- Private consultations
- Same-day appointments
- Full contraceptive care, including emergency contraception and IUD/Nexplanon insertion
>If you’re unsure where to start or want to discuss your options, call us at 773-725-4232 or book an appointment online.
Last Updated on June 23, 2025 by Womens Aid Center Chicago