These are the most effective contraceptives currently on offer. But in choosing a method, it’s important to discuss it with your healthcare practitioner, to be sure it’s the best option for your specific lifestyle and health needs, says Dr Deborah Constant, senior researcher in the Women’s Health Research Unit at the University of Cape Town. Some methods can have side effects; others may have advantages if you have certain health conditions.
1. Implants
99.9% effective. Synthetic progesterone is released from a tiny rod inserted below the skin of your upper arm under local anaesthetic, preventing ovulation (this can be done at selected Clicks clinics). It provides protection for three years with minimal side effects, and is quickly reversible, says nurse Belinda Ally.
Ask your doctor about: Possible irregular bleeding.
2. Injectables
99.8% effective. Synthetic progesterone is injected into your upper arm or your bottom, giving protection for 12 weeks.
Ask your doctor about: Possible loss of bone density, but a UCT study has found women regained the bone lost after stopping their shots, provided this was before menopause.
3. Vaginal ring
99.3% effective. Hormones that prevent ovulation are released from a soft ring you insert and leave in place for a month (for a combination ring with oestrogen and progestogen), or for three months (for the NuvaRing with only progestogen). You then remove it for a week to have your period, and insert a new ring. It is immediately reversible, if you want to conceive.
Ask your doctor about: It helping conditions such as acne, premenstrual symptoms, ovarian cysts and endometriosis. Also ask about a study linking it with a slightly higher risk for blood clots.
4. Patches
99% effective. You apply a patch to your arm, stomach or bottom that releases hormones for three weeks. You then go without for a week, and have your period, before applying a new patch.
Ask your doctor about: A possible risk of blood clots, heart attack or stroke if you are older, overweight, diabetic, have high blood pressure or cholesterol, and smoke.
5. The IUD:
99% effective. Your healthcare practitioner inserts a small T-shaped device. Plastic ones such as the Mirena release hormones to prevent egg implantation, while copper ones give off ions that kill sperm but no hormones, so there are no hormonal side-effects, says Constant. It’s immediately reversible should you decide to get pregnant.
Ask your doctor about: Cramping during insertion and slight risk of infection.
6. The pill
91-99% effective. Synthetic progesterone and oestrogen prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus to block sperm; the mini pill uses progestogen only; others (such as Yaz) use a combination.
Ask your doctor about: Possible nausea, bloating, spotting and breast tenderness, though the low-dose pills of today have fewer side effects; and how vomiting and diarrhoea can make the pill ineffective. But also ask about benefits – how Yaz, for example can help treat moderate acne and severe PMS, lighten menstrual flow, regulate irregular periods and reduce menstrual cramps.
Note that effective as these methods are at preventing pregnancy, only a barrier method – the male condom or female condom – can protect against STIs, including HIV. So unless you are in a trusting, long-term relationship and have both been tested for HIV and other infections, be sure to use a condom as well.
Clicks Clinic nursing practitioners can help with family planning needs, including contraceptive injections given according to your doctor’s prescription.
IMAGE CREDIT: Getty Images
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