What you have described is not a "best method;" it's a compromise due to limited resources. Using multiple complementary methods will always result in a lower risk than deciding on any one of the options.
By that standard, an IUD is better than this because of the battery of Stage III and postmarketing trials supporting its effectiveness. But I disagree with your standard and find it to create a false dichotomy where there need be none.
The dichotomy exists regardless of your not acknowledging it, though. I have _had_ these conversations and made these comparisons. My current girlfriend and I switched from condoms to the pill, despite the extra responsibility for her and the definite potential for side effects, because it's a better form of contraception, period. The very instant we can switch to RISUG we will, because all available data indicates that it's better in an absolute sense.
