Long-acting methods such as IUDs and implants cost more at the start but are usually the cheapest – and by far the most effective – over several years. In many countries contraception is free or covered by insurance.
How to use the Birth Control Cost Calculator
- Method (typical failure rate)
- Years of use
- Upfront cost (device and fitting)
- Device lasts (years, 0 if not a device)
- Monthly cost
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Choose the method and enter what you pay (upfront for devices, monthly for pills, patches, rings or condoms) and how long you plan to use it.
Typical-use failure rates
| Method | Pregnancies per 100 women in the first year |
|---|---|
| Implant | 0.1 |
| Hormonal IUD | 0.4 |
| Copper IUD | 0.8 |
| Injection (every 3 months) | 4 |
| Pill | 7 |
| Patch | 7 |
| Vaginal ring | 7 |
| Diaphragm | 17 |
| Male condom | 13 |
| Female condom | 21 |
| Withdrawal | 20 |
| Fertility awareness methods | 15 |
| Spermicide | 21 |
| No method | 85 |
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Method (typical failure rate) | Choose one: Implant (0.1%), Hormonal IUD (0.4%), Copper IUD (0.8%), Injection (every 3 months) (4%) … |
| Years of use | A number |
| Upfront cost (device and fitting) | Amount in your currency |
| Device lasts (years, 0 if not a device) | A number |
| Monthly cost | Amount in your currency |
What each result means
- Total cost = [Upfront cost (device and fitting)]×[Devices needed] + [Monthly cost]×12×[Years of use]
- Cost per year = [Total cost]÷[Years of use]
- Chance of pregnancy over the period (typical use) = (1 – (1 – [Method (typical failure rate)]÷100)^[Years of use])×100
Health note: this calculator is for education and screening only and is not a diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your results with a qualified clinician.
Formula
Total cost = upfront cost × number of devices needed + monthly cost × months
Chance of pregnancy over n years = 1 − (1 − typical failure rate)ⁿ
Worked example
Inputs — Method (typical failure rate): Pill (7%); Years of use: 5; Upfront cost (device and fitting): $0; Device lasts (years, 0 if not a device): 0; Monthly cost: $20.
Results — Devices needed = 0; Total cost = $1,200; Cost per year = $240; Chance of pregnancy over the period (typical use) = 30.4 %.
Key terms
- Typical use
- How a method works in real life, including mistakes.
- LARC
- Long-acting reversible contraception (IUDs and implants).
Frequently asked questions
Which birth control is cheapest in the long run?
Usually copper or hormonal IUDs and implants.
Which is most effective?
Implants and IUDs (under 1% a year), then the injection; pills, patches and rings are about 7% with typical use.
Do condoms protect against STIs?
Yes – they are the only method that also protects against sexually transmitted infections.