- Highly effective methods of birth control include not having intercourse or using birth control methods that work at least 99% of the time when used correctly and include: birth control pills, shots, implants or patches, intrauterine devices (IUDs), tubal ligation/occlusion, sexual activity with a male partner who has had a vasectomy, condom or occlusive cap (diaphragm or cervical/vault caps) used with spermicide