Contraception (birth control) helps prevent pregnancy. There are many types, and the best choice depends on your health, lifestyle, and future plans. Some methods also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The choice of contraception depends on the convenience and effectiveness you want, your medical conditions and whether you want additional protection against STIs.
Why Contraception Matters
- Prevent unintended pregnancy.
- Plan when/if to have children.
- Manage menstrual symptoms (e.g., heavy periods, cramps).
- Protect against STIs (condoms only).
Types of Contraception
1. Hormonal Methods
- Pill: Taken daily. Pros: Regulates periods. Cons: Must remember daily.
- Patch: Changed weekly. Pros: Easy to use. Cons: May irritate skin.
- Injection (Depo-Provera): Shot every 3 months. Pros: Long-lasting. Cons: May affect bone density.
- Implant (Nexplanon): Small rod in the arm (3 years). Pros: Over 99% effective. Cons: Irregular bleeding.
- Hormonal IUD (Mirena, Kyleena): Inserted into the uterus (3–8 years). Pros: Light/no periods. Cons: Requires insertion by a doctor.
2. Barrier Methods
- Condoms (male/female): Protect against STIs. Pros: No prescription. Cons: Can break.
- Diaphragm/Cap: Inserted before sex. Pros: Reusable. Cons: Requires fitting by a doctor.
3. Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC)
- Copper IUD (non-hormonal): Lasts 5–10 years. Pros: Immediate fertility after removal. Cons: Heavier periods.
4. Emergency Contraception
- Pill (Levonorgestrel): Taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
- Copper IUD: Inserted within 5 days (most effective).
5. Permanent Methods
- Sterilisation (tubal ligation/vasectomy): Permanent. Pros: No daily effort. Cons: Hard to reverse.
6. Natural Methods
- Fertility Awareness: Tracks ovulation. Pros: Hormone-free. Cons: Less effective (76–88%).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will contraception affect future fertility?
A: No! Fertility returns quickly after stopping most methods.
Q: What if I miss a pill?
A: Use condoms and take the missed pill ASAP (see package instructions).
Q: Do I need contraception if I’m breastfeeding?
A: Yes! Some methods (progesterone-only pill, IUD) are safe during breastfeeding.
Q: Can I use contraception to skip periods?
A: Yes! Some pills, implants, or IUDs reduce or stop periods safely.
Q: Are there side effects?
A: Some methods may cause spotting, mood changes, or headaches. These often improve in 3–6 months.
eGynaecologist Advice:
- Consult your gynaecologist for suitability and eligibility criteria when considering contraception.
- Emergency contraception is available at pharmacies without a prescription.
- You should review your contraception yearly: Your needs and eligibility may change with age or health.
- You must seek gynaecological opinion if you haveunusual pain, heavy bleeding, or suspected pregnancy or side effects that disrupt daily life.
