Can You Get Pregnant on Birth Control?

Can you get pregnant on birth control? We look at the efficacy of the most popular forms of contraception.

There are multiple forms of birth control on the market today. However, not all contraception is created equal, and different forms may have different efficacy rates in preventing pregnancy. If you’re wondering, “Can you get pregnant on birth control?” The short answer is yes. Empower yourself by learning more.

Bring your questions to an experienced, compassionate doctor who cares about your health. Make an appointment to talk about birth control types and the risks and benefits they hold for you. Dr. Lona Sasser and Dr. Mary Squire-De Leon are highly skilled gynecologists offering birth control services and comprehensive care in Coral Springs, Florida, and the surrounding area.

Schedule your appointment today by calling (954) 340-1050 or booking online.

What are the best forms of contraception available?

Below we’ve detailed the most common forms of birth control and a few other methods you may use to prevent pregnancy. So, can you get pregnant on birth control? Let’s break it down.

The pill

Let’s begin with a reliable classic, the pill. The pill is an oral contraceptive containing pregnancy-blocking hormones. There are many types of birth control pills, so talk to your doctor about which is best for you.

Taken daily, the pill is super reliable – about 99.7 percent effective. In a year, fewer than 1 out of 100 people who take the pill get pregnant. However, getting pregnant on the pill is possible if you forget to take it or there’s a delay in filling your prescription. Also, certain types of medication can make birth control pills less effective.

In short, the pill is a safe, reliable form of contraception. Its efficacy relies on taking the right one and never missing a day. Speak with your healthcare provider to make sure it’s right for you.

Implants

Can you get pregnant on birth control implants? Implantable contraception is another popular method because it’s reliable and effective. Much like the pill, fewer than 1 out of 100 people using the implant will get pregnant over the course of a year.

The chances of pregnancy increase if you wait longer than the recommended time to replace your implant. Efficacy also depends on your health history and other medications you may be taking. Like the pill, an implant is a super reliable form of birth control, and you don’t have to remember to take it because once it’s implanted in your arm, it stays there for years.

IUDs

Can you get pregnant while using an IUD? Intrauterine devices are one of the most reliable birth control methods, as they are 99 percent effective. A doctor inserts a small T-shaped plastic device directly inside your uterus to prevent pregnancy, and it works for years as long as it stays in place. There are hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs available. Ask your doctor which one is right for you.

Other methods

We’ve answered the question, “Can you get pregnant on birth control?” and discussed the most reliable forms of contraception, but what about other common methods?

In theory, condoms are 98 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. However, a lot can go wrong, so the actual number looks more like 85% efficacy in avoiding pregnancy when using condoms. About 1 in 5 people using just condoms will get pregnant each year.
Vaginal contraception, such as a diaphragm, cervical cap, or sponge, is less effective than other methods. Used alone, there’s only a 70-86% chance of preventing pregnancy. Use these with spermicide and have them refitted after having a baby.
The birth control shot is about 96% effective if you get it every three months.
The Ring, inserted monthly, is about 93% effective,
Likewise, The Patch is also about 93% effective if replaced weekly.
Spermicide works well with barrier methods like condoms but is only 79% effective alone.