I've been using withdrawal but want something more effective. What are my options?

Apr 18, 2016 Updated: Aug 28, 2025

If you want to stick with a method that doesn’t require talking to a health care provider, condoms and the over-the-counter birth control pill are more effective and available with a prescription.

If you don’t mind visiting your health care provider for a prescription or procedure, you might want to check out one of the most effective methods: IUD, implant, shot, ring, patch, or pill.

Want to learn more?

Select one of the related topics to find more.

birth control effectiveness withdrawal (pull out) method
Bedsider
Bedsider and Birth control

You deserve access to birth control that fits your body, your life and your plans. Since 2011, Bedsider has been a trusted source of medically reviewed birth control information—covering every method available in the U.S. with guides, real user reviews, side-by-side comparisons, and a clinic search to help you find care near you or online.

Related methods

Dive in and learn all the details about these related birth control methods.

birth control
Withdrawal (pull-out method)
Very effective if you do it correctly (but that can be hard to do). Hormone-free, zero cost, zero side effects.
birth control
Birth control ring
Very effective if you use it correctly. Easy to use and works like the pill, but you don't have to worry about it every day.
birth control
Birth control patch
Very effective if you use it correctly. Easy to use and works like the pill, but you only have to worry about it once a week.
birth control
Birth control pill
Very effective if you use it correctly. Easy to use, but you have to remember to take it every day.
birth control
IUD
Super effective, lasts for years, low-maintenance, and private (though some partners can feel the strings). You can choose hormonal or non-hormonal.
birth control
Implant (Nexplanon)
Super effective, lasts for years, low-maintenance, and private.
birth control
Birth control shot
Very effective if you use it correctly. Lasts for months, is private, and is a good hormonal option for those who can't take estrogen.