Your age, lifestyle, constitution, medical and family history can reflect your doctor’s suggestion. The doctor can also help you understand how different methods may alleviate existing menstrual issues or patterns.
Hormonal contraception: Hormonal birth control changes hormone levels in the body to prevent fertilisation or implantation of a fertilised egg. These methods are all over 99% effective when used correctly, and some of them can ease menstrual symptoms such as heavy bleeding or painful periods.
The combined pill, usually referred to as the pill, which contains oestrogen and progesterone; the progesterone-only pill, like the pill but without the oestrogen, for women who have high blood pressure or blood clots and thus are sensitive to oestrogen. This pill must be taken at the same time every day; contraceptive implants, patches or injections; the vaginal ring, a small plastic ring that is inserted into the vagina. Some intrauterine devices (IUD) release hormones, also.
Non-hormonal contraception
The most common methods of birth control that do not involve taking hormones are: natural family planning methods; barrier methods such as the cap (or diaphragm, which is 92-96% effective when used correctly and with spermicide), or condoms (male and female, 98% and 95% effective respectively); some intrauterine devices (IUD) are non-hormonal. Permanent birth control: The two permanent methods of contraception are male (vasectomy) and female sterilisation.
What to do next
There are advantages and disadvantages to each different type of contraception; the levels of effectiveness vary, and it is important to note that only barrier methods can protect against sexually transmitted disease.
Call us to make an appointment to discuss your options.
FAQ
If you notice leg or chest pain, or any difficulties breathing, you should stop taking your contraception and see a doctor immediately, as this can indicate a blood clotting issue. Other symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and breast tenderness usually clear up within three months.
Yes, in some cases women will experience relief of symptoms associated with endometriosis and PCOS. This is because the hormones in the pill can help to regulate your cycle and stabilise hormone levels, which is one of the major causes of these conditions.
Contraceptive methods that do not use hormones include natural (rhythm) methods, barrier methods like the condom, diaphragm, or cap, and some intra-uterine devices (IUD).
