Opinion article
Contraceptive methods: an informed guide to choosing
Choosing a contraceptive method depends on several factors: the effectiveness you want, ease of use, tolerable side effects, future pregnancy plans, and any health conditions that might rule out certain options.
Long-acting methods (most effective)
- Hormonal IUD: releases progestogen locally, reduces menstrual flow, lasts three to eight years depending on the model.
- Copper IUD: hormone-free, can increase menstrual flow in the first months, lasts up to ten years.
- Subdermal implant: a small rod in the arm, effective for three years.
Short-acting hormonal methods
- Combined pill: oestrogen and progestogen, requires a daily dose at the same time.
- Progestogen-only pill: an alternative for those who can’t use oestrogen, for example while breastfeeding.
- Vaginal ring and transdermal patch: the same hormonal combination as the pill, but applied weekly or monthly.
- Quarterly injection: long-acting progestogen, given every three months.
Barrier methods
Male and female condoms, the only methods that also protect against sexually transmitted infections. Less effective at preventing pregnancy than hormonal methods or the IUD when used alone.
Permanent methods
Tubal ligation or vasectomy, for those certain they don’t want (more) children. These should be considered permanent decisions, even though reversal techniques exist with variable success.
Emergency contraception (the “morning-after pill”) doesn’t replace a regular method. It’s a one-off option, more effective the sooner it’s taken after unprotected sex.
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation.