Final answer:
Hormonal methods are generally more effective than other types of short-term contraceptives, with intrauterine devices (IUDs) also being highly effective and reversible. Barrier methods tend to have higher failure rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of short-term contraceptive method that is generally more effective than others is hormonal methods. These involve the administration of hormones to prevent ovulation, and they can be administered in various ways including injections, skin patches, or birth control pills. Both types of birth control pills, those containing estrogen and progesterone and those containing only progesterone, are equally effective. However, intrauterine devices (IUDs) are also highly effective, even with typical use, and are a reversible option. Barrier methods like condoms, while effective, generally have higher failure rates with typical use compared to hormonal methods and IUDs. Emergency contraception is not considered a routine method of contraception, but rather a method to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.