Final answer:
Hormonal contraceptives are generally more effective than barrier methods, as they have higher efficacy rates. The birth control pill, for example, has a 99% effectiveness with perfect use compared to an 85% typical use effectiveness rate for male condoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering short-term contraceptive methods and their effectiveness, it's important to differentiate between barrier methods and hormonal methods. Barrier methods, such as condoms and diaphragms, physically block sperm from reaching the egg. Hormonal methods, on the other hand, such as the pill, patch, injection, and vaginal ring, work by releasing hormones into the body that prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to block sperm, or create a thin uterine lining that is less receptive to a fertilized egg.
Hormonal contraceptives are generally more effective than barrier methods when used correctly and consistently. For example, the birth control pill has an efficacy rate of about 99% with perfect use, but around 91% with typical use, due to factors like missing a pill. In contrast, male condoms have an 85% efficacy rate with typical use. These rates show that hormonal methods provide a higher level of protection against pregnancy compared to barrier methods under real-world conditions.