Choosing Your Birth Control Method
The Pros and Cons of Different Types of Contraception.
Sep 14, 2009
Women do not know enough about the range of contraception available to them, especially long-term methods, says Toni Belfield, Director of Information at the Family Planning Association (FPA). Many women rely on the pill for convenience but there are lots of other options and non-hormonal methods are increasingly popular because they offer women a choice.
Contraceptive Implants and Injections
- Implanon – A tiny implant that is placed beneath the skin. It slowly releases progestogen into the bloodstream, preventing pregnancy. Pros: Lasts for three years. Cons: It can temporarily change menstrual patterns.
- DepoProvera and Noristerat - These are injections of progestogen, preventing ovulation and pregnancy. Pros: You are protected for 8-12 weeks. Cons: You need to rebook for repeat injections.
The Coil (IUD/IUS)
- IUD (Intrauterine Device or 'coil') - A copper or plastic part that is inserted into the uterus to prevent conception. Pros: A long-term method lasting five years. Cons: Possible side effects include heavy periods.
- IUS (Intrauterine System) such as Mirena. A plastic part that is inserted into the uterus, releasing progestogen to prevent pregnancy. Pros: fewer side effects as it does not reach the bloodstream. A long-term method lasting five years. It can also help ease heavy periods. Cons: Needs to be fitted by a health professional.
Natural Family Planning
- New research* shows that natural family planning (Sympto-thermal method) is just as effective as the pill if done properly. It involves taking your temperature first thing, noting it on a chart, and monitoring cervical mucus. Fertility UK has a list of teachers across the UK. Pros: Natural, non-hormonal, puts you in touch with your body. Cons: requires a time investment of three to six months to do the charting.
- Persona – A helping hand in charting your cycle. The Persona kit contains sticks that you pee on to test fertility. A traffic light system: Red sticks mean stop, green means go. Pros: easier than remembering to take your temperature. Cons: the kits are quite expensive. If it is a 'red' day you will need to use some form of contraception.
- CycleBeads - a string of coloured beads that help you to monitor your cycle. Based on the Standard Days Method of charting (for cycles between 26-32 days).
Barrier Methods
- Male and female condoms, the cap and diaphragm. These work by preventing sperm reaching the uterus. Pros: non-hormonal, come in assorted flavours, textures and sizes. Cons: Can reduce spontaneity and sensation.
- Cervical caps are quite small and need to be fitted over the cervix. Pros: non-hormonal. Cons: You will need to be shown how to fit it the first time. Can be fiddly to use.
- Diaphragms are slightly larger and you will need to be fitted for the right size. If used correctly they are a cheap and reliable form of contraception.
Oral Contraceptives
There are two types of contraceptive pill: -
- The combined pill contains oestrogen and progestogen and prevents ovulation. Some brands are stronger than others so ask for a low-dose pill if you have experienced side effects such as mood swings and bloating. Pros: highly effective. Cons: You need to remember to take it at the same time each day and some women report reduced libido.
- The mini-pill (POP) contains progestogen and is suitable for smokers over the age of 35.
Permanent Methods of Contraception
Speak to your doctor about sterilisation or vasectomy for a partner If you don't want to have children or have completed your family.
Emergency Birth Control
- Morning After Pill – for accidents only and not intended to be used as a regular contraceptive. It contains a high dose of hormones. You need to take it within 72 hours of unprotected sex. You can also use the IUD as an emergency contraceptive for up to five days post-sex. Emergency contraception will cost around £26 if purchased from a pharmacy.
Free Contraception
To get free birth control and emergency contraception visit your nearest family planning or Genito-Urinary clinic.
There are many types of birth control so it is a case of trying several methods to find the right method for your current situation. It is worth going on a course to learn how to chart your cycle naturally, if hormonal-free contraception is your preference. Review your contraception regularly to make sure it is still working for both of you.
Sexual Health Resources
NHS Choices Live Well: Sexual Health information, accessed 14th September 2009.
The Couple to Couple League - online and face-to-face courses in natural family planning.
*The effectiveness of a fertility awareness based method to avoid pregnancy in relation to a couple’s sexual behaviour during the fertile time: a prospective longitudinal study. Journal of Human Reproduction, February 20th, 2007 22(5):1310-1319; doi:10.1093/humrep/dem003.
This article is for general information purposes only. Consult your health practitioner for specific guidance on a health issue.
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