Explore Contraceptive Methods

Learn about various contraceptive methods to help you choose the one that fits your lifestyle and needs.

Intrauterine System-IUS

A small T-shaped device inserted in the womb that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy for 3-5 years. Highly effective, reversible, and requires healthcare provider insertion and removal.

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Emergency Contraceptive

Hormonal pills taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. Most effective within 12 hours, they don’t protect against STIs and shouldn’t be used as regular contraception.

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Contraceptive Ring

A flexible vaginal ring that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy for one month. It’s 91% effective, easy to use, and doesn’t interrupt sex, but may cause mild side effects.

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Contraceptive Patch

A small skin patch that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy. Worn weekly, it’s over 91% effective when used correctly and doesn’t interrupt sex, but may cause skin irritation.

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Contraceptive Injection

A hormone shot that prevents pregnancy for 2–3 months by stopping ovulation. It’s over 94% effective when used on schedule, but may cause irregular bleeding and other hormonal side effects.

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The Pill

A daily hormonal tablet that prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation. Highly effective when taken consistently at the same time each day, but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

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Contraceptive Implant

A long-acting, reversible contraceptive placed under the skin that steadily releases hormones to prevent pregnancy for 3–5 years. Highly effective and discreet, with quick return to fertility.

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Sterilisation

Sterilisation is a safe, permanent contraceptive method for men and women, offering 99% effectiveness without affecting hormones or sex drive. Ideal for those certain they don’t want children.

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Sponge

A hormone-free, on-demand vaginal sponge that blocks the cervix and releases spermicide, providing up to 24 hours of contraception but with moderate effectiveness and possible irritation.

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Spermicides

Spermicides are non-hormonal chemicals used before sex to kill or slow sperm. Best used with barrier methods, they’re easy to apply but offer low effectiveness when used alone.

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Pull-Out Method

A risky method where the penis is withdrawn before ejaculation to prevent pregnancy. It’s free but unreliable and best used with another contraceptive method for better protection.

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Male Condom

A thin sheath worn on the penis to block sperm, preventing pregnancy and protecting against STIs. Effective when used every time during sex, and available in latex and non-latex options.

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Fertility Awareness

A natural method that tracks fertility signals to avoid or achieve pregnancy. Effective when followed precisely, it requires daily monitoring and discipline but involves no hormones or side effects.

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Female Condom

A soft latex sheath worn inside the vagina during sex to prevent pregnancy and STIs. Used on demand, it offers protection but may require practice to insert correctly.

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Diaphragm

A reusable silicone dome inserted into the vagina before sex to block sperm from entering the uterus. Must be used with spermicide and fitted by a healthcare provider.

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Popular Contraceptive FAQs

There are various types of contraception, including hormonal methods like birth control pills, patches, injections, and implants; barrier methods such as condoms and diaphragms; intrauterine devices (IUDs); fertility awareness methods; and permanent methods like sterilization.

The effectiveness of contraception varies depending on the method used. Some methods, like hormonal implants or IUDs, are more than 99% effective, while others, like condoms, have a lower efficacy rate. It’s important to use contraception consistently and correctly to maximize effectiveness.

Hormonal contraception can have side effects, which may vary depending on the individual and the specific method used. Common side effects include changes in menstrual bleeding, breast tenderness, mood swings, and nausea. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the potential side effects and find the best option for you.

Most forms of contraception do not provide protection against STIs. Condoms, both male and female, are the only method that can offer some protection against STIs. It’s recommended to use condoms in addition to other methods for dual protection against pregnancy and STIs.

Fertility can return quickly after stopping certain forms of contraception, such as hormonal methods. However, the timing of fertility restoration varies among individuals and methods. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on when you can expect to regain fertility after stopping contraception.

Choosing the right contraception method depends on various factors, including your overall health, lifestyle, preferences, and future family planning goals. Discussing your options with a healthcare professional can help you make an informed decision based on your unique circumstances.

Yes, it is generally possible to switch between different contraception methods. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure a smooth transition and uninterrupted protection against pregnancy.

If you miss a dose of your contraceptive pill, it’s important to follow the specific instructions provided with your pill pack. Refer to the package insert or consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.

There are various types of contraception, including hormonal methods like birth control pills, patches, injections, and implants; barrier methods such as condoms and diaphragms; intrauterine devices (IUDs); fertility awareness methods; and permanent methods like sterilization.

Yes, there are non-hormonal contraception options available, such as barrier methods like condoms, diaphragms, or cervical caps.

What are contraceptive implants?
Contraceptive implants are small flexible rods placed just under the skin of your upper arm by a healthcare professional. Depending on the type of implant, one to two rods are inserted.
Is the contraceptive implant noticeable to someone looking?
The implant is about the size of a thin matchstick, and people have it inserted under the skin of the inner side of the upper arm. Although one can feel it, it is not seen, except if someone is looking for it. At the site of insertion, there will be a tiny mark, but this isn’t very visible as a trained healthcare provider has inserted the implant.
What hormone is used in the contraceptive implant?
The rods steadily release the hormone progestogen into your bloodstream, preventing the release of an egg from your ovary (ovulation). This hormone also thickens the mucus in your cervix to stop the sperm from entering your uterus.
Will the hormones of the contraceptive implant affect my period?
Many women find that heavy, painful periods reduce. There can sometimes be irregular bleeding initially, but this should go after the first few months.
Is it painful to get the contraceptive implant inserted?
You will receive local anaesthesia so there should be very little pain. The procedure takes only a few minutes. There might be a bit of bruising or soreness afterwards.
When should the contraceptive implant be inserted?
After counselling by your healthcare provider and ensuring that you are not pregnant, the implant should be inserted within seven days after the onset of menstruation, or immediately or within seven days after an abortion. If the contraceptive implant is inserted at any other time, you will need to use an additional non-hormonal (barrier) method for the following seven days. In case of questions, please consult with your healthcare provider.
Why does the contraceptive implant have to be replace after 3 to 5 years?
The implant contains a progestin reservoir which is released in tiny doses during the three years or five years depending on the type to prevent pregnancy. It will need to be replaced after this time as the hormone reservoir will run out.
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