How to choose a contraceptive method

There are many contraceptive methods and brands out there, which can make choosing the most suitable one feel like a challenge.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different contraceptive methods and how they work. We’ll answer your questions so you can make an informed decision about choosing what’s best for you.

What are the different types and methods of contraception

Contraception includes barrier methods, medications and contraceptive pills, permanent solutions, and natural alternatives. It can be a good idea to speak to your GP about starting any contraception or visit a sexual health clinic. You can also use an Online Doctor service, like ours, to explore your options.

Barrier methods

Barrier contraceptive methods include condoms, cervical caps, diaphragms, sponges and chemical barrier methods.

Hormonal methods

There are a few hormonal methods of contraception:

The combined contraceptive pill contains synthetic versions of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. The progestogen-only pill/mini pill contains progestogen and no oestrogen, and the low-dose pill contains less oestrogen than the combined pill.
Contraceptive injections provide protection for at least 3 months, and you’ll need another injection every 12 weeks or so.
The contraceptive implant is a small rod that goes under the skin of your arm and releases progesterone. It works for 3 years and provides 99% effectiveness.
Contraceptive patches contain oestrogen and progesterone in a small patch placed on the skin.
The vaginal ring contains oestrogen and progesterone in a small flexible and soft plastic ring, which is placed in the vagina.

Intrauterine systems (IUS) and intrauterine devices (IUD)

Intrauterine devices (IUD) and intrauterine systems (IUS) are small contraceptive devices that are inserted into the uterus as a form of contraception. They are also called the copper coil (IUD) and hormonal coil (IUS).

Permanent methods (sterilisation)

The only permanent method of contraception is male (vasectomy) or female sterilisation.

Natural contraceptive methods

Natural family planning involves tracking periods to see when you’re most fertile and avoiding having sex on those days. This is called the fertility awareness method. If you stay vigilant with tracking your period, you can experience between 91-99% effectiveness . There are several different applications that can be downloaded which help track your periods.

Which type of contraception is right for me?

There are a few things to consider when choosing the best contraception for you, including your age, weight, lifestyle and any existing health conditions, as well as what’s important to you.

You should seek advice from your doctor or one of our clinicians before starting a new type of hormonal contraception.

Which contraceptive method is the most effective?

The hormonal coil (IUS), copper coil (IUD), contraceptive implant and contraceptive injection are over 99% effective when used correctly.
The combined pill and progestogen-only pill (mini pill) and contraceptive patches are also over 99% effective when used correctly.
Condoms are 98% effective when used correctly.

How long before you’re protected?

How long contraception takes to work depends on the type you have chosen.

Barrier methods, including condoms, work straight away.
Hormonal methods can take up to a week to work. This includes contraceptive pills, and you may need to use additional contraception depending on where in your cycle you start the pill.

IUDs work instantly and can last for between 5 and 10 years, depending on the type. You’ll be protected from pregnancy instantly if an IUS is fitted in the first 5 days of your cycle (day 1 is the first day of your period). If it’s fitted at any other time, you’ll need to use another type of contraception, like condoms for 7 days following your IUS being fitted.

Looking for contraceptive options?

Go to our contraceptive methods

What are the potential side effects of using contraception?

There are different side effects associated with different types of contraception. Speak to your GP if you’re worried about any side effects. Our clinicians will also share information about side effects during your online consultation.

Method	Potential side effects
IUS (hormonal coil)	Pain after fitting Harmless cysts on your ovaries Thrush
IUD (copper coil)	Pain after fitting Bleeding between periods Heavier periods Thrush
Combined pill	Mood swings Nausea Sore breasts Headaches
Progestogen-only pill	Acne Sore breasts Mood changes Decreased sex drive Headaches Nausea
Contraceptive patch	Bleeding between periods Headaches Dizziness Nausea Sore breasts
Condoms	Irritation for people with sensitivities

Which contraceptive methods are reversible?

Some contraceptives only provide protection while you’re using them, and your fertility will return to normal after you stop using them. You can stop using the contraceptive pill and contraceptive injection or have the contraceptive implant, intrauterine device (IUD) and intrauterine systems (IUS) removed at any time, if you decide you want to change contraceptive methods or stop using contraception.

If you want to come off hormonal contraception but you don’t want to get pregnant, speak to your GP. You can also start an online consultation, and our clinicians can explore your contraceptive options.

Which contraception methods protect from STIs?

Condoms are the only type of contraception that can prevent STIs. Contraceptive pills, copper and hormonal coils, and other hormonal methods do not protect you from STIs. Use condoms alongside hormonal contraception for protection against STIs, and always take an STI test before having sex with a new partner.

Speak to your GP or begin an online consultation if you’re considering changing your contraceptive methods, or starting a new type of contraception.