What to consider when choosing a contraceptive method? We have highlighted some good examples on this page.
The choice of contraceptive method depends on the needs of the partners and is their shared responsibility. If possible, it is good to discuss the choice of contraceptive method with your partner before intercourse. If the pregnancy is not wanted, you should definitely choose an effective contraceptive method (Double Dutch method, contraceptive implant, intrauterine device, oral contraceptives, contraceptive patch, vaginal ring). If you are male then the only way to protect yourself and your partner from an unwanted pregnancy is to use a condom and to help and support your partner in choosing and using a suitable effective contraceptive method.
If you are female, then there are more possibilities to protect yourself and your partner from an unwanted pregnancy. Effective contraceptive methods (contraceptive implant, intrauterine device, oral contraceptives, contraceptive patch, vaginal ring) can be used by women. A woman has also the right to also ask or demand the use of a condom, and she can support and help the partner in using a condom.Men and women can get a sterilization when they have filled certain conditions
Principles of choosing a suitable effective contraceptive method
Effective contraceptives can be divided into several categories:
Short-acting
Combined Oral Contraceptive (The Pill) – must be taken daily.
Contraceptive Patch – must be changed weekly.
Vaginal Ring – must be changed once a month.
Progesterone-Only Oral Contraceptive (Minipill) – must be taken daily.
Contraceptive injection – must be repeated in every 3 months.
Condom – every intercourse.
Long-acting
Contraceptive Implant – 3 years.
Intrauterine System (hormonal) – 3 or 5 years.
Intrauterine Device (copper) – 5-10 years.
Sterilization – irreversible.
Hormonal
Contraceptive Implant
Intrauterine System (hormonal)
Combined Oral Contraceptive (The Pill)
Contraceptive Patch
Vaginal Ring
Progesterone-Only Oral Contraceptive (Minipill)
Contraceptive injection
Non-Hormonal
Intrauterine Device (copper)
Condom
Sterilization
Ensures a regular cycle and allows menstruation to be shifted
Combined Oral Contraceptive (The Pill)
Contraceptive Patch
Vaginal Ring
Does not guarantee a regular cycle.
Contraceptive Implant
Intrauterine System (hormonal)
Progesterone-Only Oral Contraceptive (Minipill)
Contraceptive injection
Does not affect the menstrual cycle.
Intrauterine Device (copper) – might make periods longer and heavier, but does not affect regularity
Condom
Sterilization
Changes menstruation less painful and decreases menstrual flow
Contraceptive Implant
Intrauterine System (hormonal)
Combined Oral Contraceptive (The Pill)
Contraceptive Patch
Vaginal Ring
Progesterone-Only Oral Contraceptive (Minipill)
Contraceptive injection
Beneficial effect on acne and reduces hair growth.
Combined Oral Contraceptive (The Pill)
Contraceptive Patch
Vaginal Ring
