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 vaginal sponge is a small round sponge made of plastic and contains spermicides. It is inserted into the vagina so that it rests against the cervix.
The sponge prevents pregnancy by blocking the entrance to your uterus and the spermicide slows sperm down so it can’t reach your egg. It is not widely available and is one of the least effective methods of contraception.
It is not widely available and is one of the least effective methods of contraception.
You need to use the sponge every time you have sex. With clean hands, wet the sponge to activate the spermicide. Squeeze out the excess water, but not so that sponge is dry. With the dimpled part of the sponge facing upwards, fold the edges together so that it is long and narrow. You then insert the sponge into your vagina like a tampon, pushing it up as far as it will go so that it covers your cervix.
The sponge can be inserted up to 24 hours before sex, allowing you to have as many times as you want in the next 24 hours with no need to replace it. You will need to leave the sponge in for at least 6 hours after the last time you had sex. Do not leave it in for more than 30 hours in total.
Each sponge can only be used once and must be thrown away after use.
Some people may experience irritation in or around the vagina or penis
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.
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.
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.
Join the Bold Community
Together, we can make a difference by normalising the conversation around sexual health and pleasure. Join VIYA Health’s global mission to shape a world where every woman’s pleasure, wellness and health are prioritised.
