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The State of Your Birth Control

Lifehacker follows the history of birth control in the U.S. and explains what everyone needs to know about the options, medical advancements, and legal access to contraception.
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Image for A Complete Guide to How Birth Control Has Changed Over the Years
The State of Your Birth Control

A Complete Guide to How Birth Control Has Changed Over the Years

IUDs aren't dangerous anymore, emergency contraception is available over the counter, and you may be surprised how long condoms have been with us.

Beth Skwarecki
Image for Here’s How Well the Most Common Birth Control Options Actually Work
The State of Your Birth Control

Here’s How Well the Most Common Birth Control Options Actually Work

The "typical use" failure rate is the most important number to consider.

Beth Skwarecki
Image for How to Choose a Birth Control Option If You’re Worried About Side Effects
The State of Your Birth Control

How to Choose a Birth Control Option If You’re Worried About Side Effects

The pill, IUD, implant, shot, patch, and ring each have their pros and cons.

Riley Davis, Beth Skwarecki
Image for Is 'Fertility Awareness' Contraception Right for You?
The State of Your Birth Control

Is 'Fertility Awareness' Contraception Right for You?

Fertility awareness has come a long way since the “rhythm method.”

A.A. Newton
Image for How to Choose the Right Birth Control Pill for You
The State of Your Birth Control

How to Choose the Right Birth Control Pill for You

Combination or mini-pill? Which generation? How many active pills per pack? There are more options than you may realize.

A.A. Newton
Image for Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Your Tubes Tied
The State of Your Birth Control

Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Your Tubes Tied

If you are absolutely certain you don't want to get pregnant, sterilization is an option.

Rachel Fairbank
Image for What to Expect When You Get a Vasectomy
The State of Your Birth Control

What to Expect When You Get a Vasectomy

When you're making smart choices about your reproductive health, but you also wonder if it will hurt.

Joel Cunningham
Image for What to Expect When You're Getting an IUD
The State of Your Birth Control

What to Expect When You're Getting an IUD

It may not hurt as much as you think—but you still have options.

Beth Skwarecki
Image for What Every Type of Birth Control Costs
The State of Your Birth Control

What Every Type of Birth Control Costs

Birth control options can vary in price. Here's how your different options stack up.

Rachel Fairbank
Image for Don't Believe These Myths About Contraception
The State of Your Birth Control

Don't Believe These Myths About Contraception

Condoms work, IUDs aren't dangerous, and other things your old sex ed teacher got wrong.

Beth Skwarecki
Image for Everything You Should Know About Emergency Contraception (Before You Need It)
The State of Your Birth Control

Everything You Should Know About Emergency Contraception (Before You Need It)

Start the clock: You've got 120 hours to confuse some sperm.

Amanda Blum