Birth control

This page lists birth control from most to least effective in actual use. Most methods may be more effective than shown here if used perfectly. These numbers are based on the clinical practice guidelines of The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC).

Implant

Over 99.9% effective

A small flexible rod inserted under the skin in the underarm that release a small amount of hormone.

Free for everyone with MSP  $330 for those without MSP

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Vasectomy

99.8% effective

A minor procedure that prevents the release of sperm with ejaculation. This is a permanent method.


Cost is covered by MSP

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IUD (intrauterine device)

Over 99% effective

A flexible plastic T-shaped device with a string for removal.

Free for everyone with MSP
$80-$400 for those without MSP

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Tubal ligation

99.5% effective

Surgery to close the fallopian tubes to prevent sperm from reaching the eggs. This is a permanent method.


Cost is covered by MSP

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Combining methods

Usually over 95% effective

When more than one birth control method is used.


Cost varies

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Depo-Provera injection

94% effective

A progestin hormone injection.

Free for everyone with MSP
$25-$45 every 3 months for those without MSP

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Birth control pills

91% effective

A daily pill containing combined hormones.

Free for everyone with MSP
$15-$30 per month for those without MSP

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Evra patch

91% effective

A plastic sticker with progestin and estrogen.

$15-$30 per month

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NuvaRing

91% effective

A flexible plastic ring containing progestin and estrogen.


$15-$30 per month

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Progestin-only pills

91% effective

A daily pill containing only one hormone, called progesterone.

Free for everyone with MSP
$15-$30 per month for those wothout MSP

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Male / external condoms

82% effective

A latex or non-latex covering that fits over an erect penis before intercourse.


$0.50-$2 per condom

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Female / internal condoms

79% effective

A soft nitrile pouch inserted into the vagina before intercourse.


$1.50-$2 per condom

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Withdrawal / pull-out method

78% effective

When the penis is taken out of the vagina before male ejaculation.


No immediate cost

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Fertility awareness/
rhythm

76% effective

Avoiding intercourse on the days of the menstrual cycle when a pregnancy is most likely to occur.


No immediate cost

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Spermicides

72% effective

A film, foam, gel, cream, suppository or sponge used during intercourse.


$15-20 for several uses

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No method

15% effective

When no birth control method is used.


No immediate cost

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210 – 2525 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC   V5N 4C1
Phone hours: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
Monday to Friday

Appointments: 604-322-6692
business inquiries only: 604-322-6576
Fax: 604-322-6632

Everywoman’s sits on the traditional, ancestral, and un-ceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples– xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam),  Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish).