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.
The oral contraceptive pill (also called “the Pill”) contains hormones that prevent pregnancy and is taken once a day. The hormones in the pill prevent pregnancy by stopping the release of an egg from your ovary (ovulation), thickening the mucus in your cervix to stop the sperm from entering your uterus, as well as thinning the lining of your uterus so it is less likely that a fertilised egg will attach.
There are two types of contraceptive pills, both of which contain hormones that prevent pregnancy. Combination pills contain the hormones oestrogen and progestin. Progestin-only pills are called “the minipill” and may be suitable for women who are breastfeeding or who have a history of blood clots and strokes and should not take oestrogen.
The pill should be taken at the same time every day, regardless of whether you have had sex or not. If taken correctly, the pill is very effective in preventing pregnancy.
Ask your healthcare provider if the combined pill is the right contraceptive method for you. Your healthcare provider will also explain how and when to start taking the pill, as this depends on the type you use.
For the pill to be effective, it has to be taken at the same time every day. Missing a pill increases your chances of becoming pregnant. Some women find taking the pill at the same time as a daily routine, such as brushing their teeth, helps them to remember.
If you do miss a pill, make sure to read the Patient Information Leaflet that comes in the box with your pill to find out when to take your next pill. If you are in doubt or have any questions, speak to your healthcare provider.
You may experience:
Changes in your monthly bleeding patterns, including:
Lighter bleeding and fewer days of bleeding
Irregular bleeding
Infrequent bleeding
No monthly bleeding
These changes in bleeding are normal and are not harmful. If you find them bothersome, speak to your healthcare professional.
Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea
Painful and tender breasts
Weight change
Mood changes
Acne (can improve or worsen, but usually improves)
Increase in blood pressure
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A small T-shaped copper device inserted into the womb by a healthcare provider. It prevents pregnancy for 5–10 years by impairing sperm and fertilized egg implantation.
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.
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.
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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