Oral contraception has been used since the early 1950s. Commonly known as ‘the pill’, it comes under many brand names and offers women the option to control their menstrual cycle and hormones in order to prevent pregnancy, acne or premenstrual symptoms. The pill can also be used to treat hormonal disorders such as PCOS. The pill is offered in a combined oestrogen/progesterone option or the mini pill which is progesterone only. Both of these pills are highly effective when used as directed.
Intrauterine devices (IUD) are small devices that are placed inside the uterus. There are two common IUDs; copper IUD and progesterone IUD. The IUDs offer some relief from menstrual symptoms and in some women can cause the cessation of menstruation while inserted. IUDs are 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. IUDs are known to be effective for 5-10 years after insertion. To have an IUD inserted or removed, you will need to visit your specialist.
Contraceptive implants are small plastic rods containing synthetic progesterone that are inserted into the body. This release of hormone into the bloodstream prevents ovulation each month to allow effective prevention of pregnancy. Implants are active for 3 years after insertion. To insert an implant, a small incision is made in the upper arm and the rod is then inserted inside the arm. To insert or remove a contraceptive implant you will need to visit your specialist.
Contraceptive injections known as Depo Provera or Depo Ralovera, are an injection of synthetic hormones every 12 weeks. These injections are safe for use during breastfeeding and are known to be 99% effective when used as directed.
Barrier methods of contraception offer women the option to prevent pregnancy without hormone use. Barrier methods are the only form of contraception that also help to prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections. Barrier methods include male condoms and female diaphragms. Barrier methods are 94-98% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Permanent contraceptive options include:
- Tubal Ligation (clips) or salpingectomy (removal of tubes)
- Hysterectomy
Tubal ligation/ salpingectomy is a form of permanent contraception. It is a surgical procedure in which the Fallopian tubes are blocked or removed so that the egg cannot travel to the uterus for fertilisation. This procedure can be completed via laparoscopy procedure or via laparotomy. This form of contraception is immediate and is 99% effective. This procedure does not cause an effect on your menstrual cycle and your menstrual cycle will remain the same. While legation can be reversed, it is not always successful and should be considered a permanent procedure. Salpingectomy cannot be reversed and is permanent.
Undergoing a hysterectomy is another permanent form of contraception. While this method is uncommonly used just for contraceptive purposes it is important to note that if you have a hysterectomy, you are no longer able to achieve pregnancy naturally.
Dr Steven Adair will work with you to determine the contraceptive method that is right for your circumstances to enable you to live the life you want to.