Perfect vs Typical Use

[ojh22]

Hello! I was just wondering if y'all could tell me the difference between "perfect" and "typical" use when it comes to the pill and withdrawal, specifically. I looked at the calculations sheet you made with all different forms and combinations of birth control (which was very helpful by the way)! I just didn't know what defines perfect - I take the pill at the same time every day, give or take a few minutes or maximum an hour, for about half a year now. Thank you very much!

[Eddie C]

Hello there, ojh22.

Effectiveness rates of contraceptive methods are figured based on one full year of use. When we say "perfect use" what we mean is that whatever method someone is using -- except methods like the implant, the shot or the IUD that doesn't rely on human use because once you have them you forget about everything else -- is used following all the indications required. But is good to keep in mind that people are not perfect, and even someone who is very good at taking their pill every day at the same time, there could be a day when they just took it late or even skipped it for many, many reasons. That's when the term "typical use" comes in.

[Heather]

To be even more concise, "perfect" use rates are gathered from supervised clinical trials. Typical use rates are gathered from people's reporting about use in their daily lives. Both rates are for one full year of use.