Contraception and Family Planning

There is no ‘best’ method of contraception. Every method has its pros and cons.
Much depends on personal preference.

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Even the most effective contraception can fail. But your chances of getting pregnant are lowest if the method you choose is always used correctly and every time you have sex.

Before choosing a birth control method, consider:

  • Your overall health
  • How often you have sex
  • The number of sex partners you have
  • If you want to have children someday
  • How well each method works to prevent pregnancy
  • Costs
  • Possible side effects
  • Your comfort level with using the method

Types of Birth Control

Continuous Abstinence:
No sex (vaginal, anal or oral)

  • Prevents pregnancy
  • Protects against STD

Pregnancy Risk

0%

Natural Family Planning / Rhythm Method:
No sex on fertile days

Fertile days signs (cycle length dependent):

  • Usually 5 days before and days after ovulation
  • Or 14 days before next period
  • Change in cervical mucus
  • Rise in basal body temperature

Pregnancy Risk

2-24%

Withdrawal:
Coitus Interruptus

  • Withdrawal of penis before ejaculation

Pregnancy Risk

25%

Barrier Methods:
Contraceptive sponge, Diaphragm, cervical cap or shield, Female & Male condom

  • Prevents pregnancy
  • Protects against STD

Pregnancy Risk

2-10%

Hormonal Methods:
Combined oral contraceptive

  • Contains estrogen and progestin
  • Taken daily to prevent ovulation
  • Changes uterus lining and cervical mucus
  • Not advisable for some women with medical problems
  • Action affected by antibiotics

Pregnancy Risk

1-5%

Hormonal Methods:
Progestin only pill

  • Contains only progestin
  • Thickens cervical mucus
  • Sometimes prevents ovulation
  • Suitable for breastfeeding
  • Action affected by antibiotics

Pregnancy Risk

2-4%

Hormonal Methods:
Depo Provera injection

  • Progestin injection every 3 months
  • Prevents ovulation
  • Affects cervical mucus
  • Can affect bone density if used long term

Pregnancy Risk

<1%

Implants:
Jadelle / Implanon

  • Match stick size rod placed under skin of upper arm
  • Contains progestin
  • Effective for 5 years

Pregnancy Risk

<1%

Intrauterine Devices:
Copper IUD

  • Prevents sperm from reaching fertilized eggs
  • Lasts 5 years

Pregnancy Risk

1%

Intrauterine Devices:
Mirena Iud

  • Releases progestin into the uterus
  • Prevents ovulation
  • Affects cervical mucus
  • Lasts 5 years

Pregnancy Risk

<1%

Emergency:
Postinor

  • 2 doses of hormonal pills 12 hours apart
  • Taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex

Pregnancy Risk

1-4%

Many women believe that all “pills” are the same and that there is no other option. As you can see there is a wide variety of contraceptives to choose from. At Omnicare we can provide all of the above and below services.

If you have a contraception issue, make an appointment to see one of our specialists. Contraception requiring a procedure may need a second visit, unless we have made a prior arrangement to get in stock. If you already know what you want check with the receptionist when you make your appointment.

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Permanent Birth Control

Hysteroscopic:
Essure

First non surgical method for sterilization

  • Device placed into each fallopian tube, forms a scar and blocks the tubes
  • Takes 3 months for it to be effective
  • Can be performed under general anaesthetic or with sedation and pain relief

Laparoscopic:
Female

Tubal ligation

  • Fallopian tubes are cut or tied
  • Can be done at time of caesarean section
  • Performed under general anaesthetic

Local Incision:
Male

Vasectomy