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 contraceptive ring, also called the vaginal ring, is a small, soft plastic ring that is placed in the vagina and releases a steady dose of hormones into your bloodstream over a month.
These hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, 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.
It provides contraception for 1 month, after which you replace it. You can have sex and use tampons while the ring is in your vagina. If used correctly, it is 97% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Talk to your healthcare professional about the best time to start using the ring and whether you need to use additional contraception. They can also give you advice on how to insert and remove it.
The ring sits against the vaginal wall and is inserted almost like a tampon. You press the opposite sides of the ring together and gently push the folded ring entirely inside the vagina.
Inserting it deeply helps to keep it in place and makes it less likely that you will feel it. The ring is left in place for 3 weeks, after which you remove it, have a week’s break, and then insert a new one. During this break, you might have a period-type bleed.
If the ring falls out, or you forget to replace it, read the Patient Information Leaflet that comes in the box with your rings to find out what you should do. 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
Periods that last longer
These changes in bleeding are normal and are not harmful. If you find them bothersome, speak to your healthcare professional.
Headaches
Irritation, redness, or inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis)
White vaginal discharge
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 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 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.
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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