There are many types of contraception - both short-term and long-term. Here's a round-up of what's available for men and women.
Women don’t know enough about the range of contraception choices including long-term methods, says Toni Belfield of the Family Planning Association. Many of us rely on the pill or condoms but there are other options and natural (non-hormonal) methods are becoming increasingly popular. If you’ve been taking your current contraceptive for a while and are looking for a change, here are the options:
Implanon – This is a tiny implant that is placed under the skin on your arm. It slowly releases progestogen into the bloodstream and is a long-term method, lasting three years. Possible side effects include a temporary change in menstrual patterns.
IUD (Intrauterine Device), also known as the ‘Coil’ is a copper or plastic part that is inserted into the uterus. It’s long-term, lasting five years or more and works by preventing the sperm and egg from meeting. Possible side effects include heavier periods.
IUS (Intrauterine System), e.g. Mirena. This is a plastic part that is inserted into the uterus, slowly releasing progestogen to prevent pregnancy long-term. Side effects are less, as the hormone doesn’t reach the bloodstream.
DepoProvera and Noristerat (Injection). This contains progestogen, which stops ovulation in the same way as the pill. You need to have it every 8-12 weeks.
Natural Family Planning – effective if you take the time to learn it properly. It involves taking your temperature each morning, noting it on a chart and monitoring cervical mucus. Fertility UK lists teachers across the UK. Give it 3-6 months to learn.
Persona – this is useful if you need a little help monitoring your cycle. The kit contains sticks that you urinate on to test how fertile you are. If it turns red it’s not safe to have sex. If green, it’s safe. It’s an easy way to monitor your hormonal cycle and doesn’t require charting or taking your temperature. However, the kit is quite expensive and if it’s a ‘red’ day you’ll need to use other forms of contraception if you want to have sex.
Barrier methods – male and female condoms, the cap and diaphragm. These work by stopping sperm accessing the uterus. Condoms are around 98% effective if used correctly, other methods slightly less so.
Combined Pill – contains oestrogen and progestogen and prevents ovulation. Experiment with different brands as you may find you suit some more than others. It’s very effective and side effects are rare.
Progestogen-only Pill (POP) – this only contains progestogen and is taken if the combined pill isn’t suitable, for example by women who are breast-feeding or older. Periods may become lighter or more irregular.
Sterilisation or vasectomy. This prevents sperm travelling from the testes, or the egg from meeting the sperm. A permanent contraceptive method in most cases.
Emergency contraception – strictly for accidents such as a split condom or forgotten pill and shouldn’t be used as a long-term method. You need to take it within 72 hours of unprotected sex and it’s most effective if taken within 12 hours. Available from your GP or pharmacy. The IUD can also be used as an emergency contraceptive for up to five days after unprotected sex.
