Methods of contraception

In this section

• Combined oral contraceptive pill (COC)

  Often called ‘the pill’, the combined pill contains two hormones similar to those produced naturally by women. It is over 99% effective when used perfectly but in typical use, the rate is 91%.

  

• Condoms (male)

  Male condoms help protect against pregnancy and sexual transmitted infections (STIs). Used correctly, they are 98% effective but in typical use they are 82% effective. Male condoms are a form of barrier contraception. This means that they protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

  

• Contraceptive implant

  The contraceptive implant is small rod, the size of a matchstick, which is inserted into the upper arm. It is not usually visible and is estimated to be 99.9% effective. The implant is also known as a long acting reversible contraception (LARC) and lasts for three years.

• Contraceptive injection

  Contraceptive injections contain a progestogen hormone, which is similar to that which occurs naturally in women. Injections last between 8 and 13 weeks, depending on the type you use and are estimated to be over 99% effective when taken on time.

  

• Contraceptive patch

  The patch is a small, beige-coloured square that sticks on your skin. Used correctly, it is estimated to be over 99% effective whereas typical use is 91%. It works by releasing hormones daily, preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg each month (ovulation).

  

• Diaphragms and caps

  Diaphragms and contraceptive caps are a barrier method of contraception. Used correctly with spermicide (essential) they are 92-96% effective at preventing pregnancy. They only provide limited protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) so you are always advised to also use a condom.

• Emergency contraception

  Emergency contraception can be used if you have had sex without a condom, a condom accident or think your current method has failed such as missing a contraceptive pill. There are no serious side effects of using emergency contraception.

  

• Female condoms

  Female condoms are a form of barrier contraception. This means that they protect against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). When used correctly and consistently, condoms are a reliable method of preventing pregnancy - thought to be around 95% effective.

  

• Intrauterine device (IUD/non-hormonal coil)

  The IUD is a small plastic and copper device that is inserted into your womb by a doctor or nurse. It is a very effective method of contraception and newer types of IUD are over 99% effective.

  

• Intrauterine system (IUS/Hormonal coil)

  The IUS is a small plastic device that looks like a letter T and is inserted into your womb by a doctor or nurse. It is estimated to be over 99% effective and is one most effective forms of contraception available in the UK.

  

• Natural family planning

  Natural family planning teaches you when you can have sex each month without contraception with a reduced risk of pregnancy. It is sometimes called fertility awareness. Depending on how accurately it is used, up to one in four women using natural family planning may get pregnant.

  

• Permanent methods

  Permanent methods of contraception are suitable for people who are sure they never want children or don’t want any more. You will need to talk to a GP if you are considering these methods.

• Progestogen-only pill (POP)

  There are two types of Progestogen-only pill (POP). Unlike the combined oral contraceptive pill, they contain no oestrogen. Taken correctly, POP is over 99% effective but in typical use effectiveness is 91%.

  

• Vaginal ring

  The vaginal ring is a small, soft plastic ring placed inside your vagina like a tampon. Used correctly, it is estimated to be over 99% effective. It works by releasing hormones (progestogen and oestrogen) to stop the release of eggs.