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 intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) is a small, flexible plastic frame with copper sleeves or wire around it that is inserted into your womb by a trained healthcare professional.
The copper makes it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg and survive. It can also stop a fertilised egg from implanting itself.
It is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy, and it lasts for 5 to 10 years, depending on the type.
An IUD needs to be fitted by a trained healthcare professional. The appointment takes about 20 to 30 minutes and fitting the IUD should take no longer than 5 minutes.
Having an IUD fitted can be uncomfortable, and some people might find it painful. Some women get period-type cramps afterwards, but you can use painkillers to ease the cramps. You may also bleed for a few days after having an IUD fitted.
You can have your IUD removed at any time by a healthcare professional. As you can get pregnant as soon as the IUD has been taken out, use additional contraception, such as condoms.
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
Dizziness
Nausea
Painful and tender breasts
Weight gain
Mood changes
Acne
There is an increase risk in ovarian cysts
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 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 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.
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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