What are the preferred contraceptive methods of the French?

Since a little refresher never hurts, we thought we’d offer you a quick overview of contraceptive methods. But with a fun twist: by looking at the preferred contraceptive methods of people in France.

This article is an opportunity to remind you of all the options available to you and to help you discover new ones. In your opinion, are we more into condoms or the birth control pill in France? The Inserm has the answer!

The 6 most used contraceptive methods in France

6. The patch or the ring

In sixth place in the Inserm ranking, we find the hormonal patch or ring. The patch is stuck directly onto the skin; it releases a progestogen and synthetic estrogens to block ovulation. It must be changed every week and is very effective if the application protocol is strictly followed.

The ring works in exactly the same way but is inserted into the vagina.

5. The implant

The implant is that little plastic rod, the size of a matchstick, that a healthcare professional slides under the skin of the arm. Nothing too scary, we promise.

In terms of effectiveness, we’re talking very, very serious business: it is the most reliable method of contraception, just after… abstinence (well, that’s not our favorite).

The implant continuously releases a synthetic hormone, a progestogen, which prevents ovulation. Result: no egg, no pregnancy. It is effective for about 3 years, without you having to think about it daily. No pill to swallow, no reminder on your phone, no “oops, I forgot.”

Obviously, like any hormonal contraception, it can cause side effects: irregular, absent, or longer periods, changes in libido, minor hormonal annoyances… Every body reacts in its own way. Good news: the implant can be removed at any time if it doesn’t suit you.

4. Permanent contraception (sterilization)

Now we’re moving into another category: permanent contraception. It’s radical, but it’s a real option chosen by more than 4% of women in France.

For men, this involves a vasectomy. The principle? Cutting or blocking the tubes that carry sperm. Ejaculation still happens, pleasure too, but without sperm in the mix. Be careful, however: even if we sometimes talk about reversibility, it remains uncertain.

For women, we’re talking about tubal ligation. A surgical procedure involving a hospital stay of 24 to 48 hours, which should be considered permanent, as reversal procedures are major and rarely effective.

It’s a decision that deserves reflection, medical support, and time to mature. But for some people, it’s an obvious choice and a real mental relief.

3. The condom

Timeless, accessible, and practical: the condom remains a safe bet. If it is so popular, it is notably because it is free for those under 26.

It is also one of the rare contraceptive methods that directly involves men, because, let’s be honest, the contraceptive burden still relies heavily on women.

Some use it alone, others as a complement to hormonal contraception, just to be safe (and to protect against STIs, an important reminder).

Easy to slip into a bag, a pocket, or a bedside table, the condom is often the first method of contraception for young people. And it remains an excellent option at any age. And to date, it is the only contraceptive method that also protects against sexually transmitted infections. If you are preparing for your first sexual encounter, it’s actually the simplest reflex to adopt: accessible, no prescription needed, and it also protects you against STIs, unlike most other methods on this list.

2. The IUD

The IUD (intrauterine device) comes in two versions:

• the hormonal IUD,

• the copper IUD, which works without hormones.

It is inserted by a doctor or midwife and currently appeals to over 20% of women.

Experiences vary greatly: some see their periods disappear, others find them heavier or more painful, some notice an impact on their libido, others no change at all. In short, it’s impossible to predict in advance how your body will react.

The advantage? If it doesn’t suit you, it can be removed at any time by a healthcare professional. And if it fits you like a glove, it only needs to be changed every 5 to 10 years depending on the model. Pretty stress-free.

1. The birth control pill

And the big winner is… the pill. More than a third of women in France have adopted it.

It contains synthetic hormones that have a dual role:

• blocking ovulation,

• preventing implantation and hindering sperm mobility.

On paper, its effectiveness is impressive: 99.7% when taken perfectly. In real life, with missed pills, time zone changes, and “oops” moments, it’s closer to 92%.

It’s a well-known method, widely prescribed, but that doesn't suit everyone. Once again, listen to your body: if it sends you signals, they deserve your attention.

These contraceptives we talk about less

There are also methods that are more confidential, or let’s say, less popular.

The withdrawal method, for example. Yes, it is still used in France. No, it is not a reliable method if you don’t want to get pregnant. We prefer to be clear.

The diaphragm and the cervical cap cover the cervix to prevent the passage of sperm. They must be used with a spermicide, and their effectiveness remains… average.

As for emergency contraception, it can help out:

• a pill to take within 3 days,

• another possible up to 5 days after unprotected sex.

In case of a broken condom or a missed pill, it can save you a lot of anxiety.

And what about the pill for men? Yes, it exists. Or rather: weekly testosterone injections, still not very widespread but very real. Which goes to show that things are (slowly) starting to change.

In short: the right contraception is the one that simplifies your life, not the one that complicates it. There is no perfect method, only different bodies, evolving desires, and changing life stages. The most important thing is to stay tuned into yourself, dare to ask questions, and don’t hesitate to switch if it no longer suits you.