: Different types of birth control methods in Minnesota have large differences in effectiveness, but all birth control methods work the best if used correctly and every time you have sex. The vasectomy is one of the lowest failure rates among the birth control methods. The study showed the traditional vasectomy failure rate is 1-3 per 1000 cases; the failure rate would be less than 1 per 2000 in no scalpel vasectomy with the fascia clipping technique (fascia interposition).
Failure rates can be calculated statistically under a “perfect-use” condition. A “perfect-use” rate is where any rules and steps of the method are rigorously followed, and (if applicable) the method is used at every act of sexual intercourse. Therefore, actual failure rates are higher than perfect-use rates for a variety of reasons, including wrong instructions, handling mistakes, and mistakes/non-compliance from end users.
Birth control methods and failure rates (the number of pregnancies expected per 100 women)
Sterilization surgery for women: Less than 1 pregnancy
Sterilization implant for women: Less than 1 pregnancy
Sterilization surgery for men (vasectomy): Less than 1 pregnancy
Implantable rod: Less than 1 pregnancy
Intrauterine device: Less than 1 pregnancy
Shot/injection (Depo-Provera): Less than 1 pregnancy
Oral contraceptives: 5 pregnancies
Skin patch: 5 pregnancies
Vaginal ring: 5 pregnancies
Male condom 11-16 pregnancies
Diaphragm with spermicide 15 pregnancies
Sponge with spermicide 16-32 pregnancies
Cervical cap with spermicide 17-23 pregnancies
Female condom: 20 pregnancies
Natural family planning (rhythm method): 25 pregnancies
Spermicide alone: 30 pregnancies
Emergency contraception: 1 pregnancy
