Different Types of Contraception

Hormonal contraception contains synthetic hormones to regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent pregnancy. Several methods are available, each with its own mechanism of action, benefits, and side effects. Here, we explore the 5 common hormonal contraception options: contraceptive pills, patches, injections, implants, and vaginal rings.

Contraceptive pills

Oral contraceptive pills are the most common birth control method used by people under 35. There are 2 types of pill available:

1. Combined oral contraceptive pill (‘the pill’) – contains a combination of synthetic oestrogen and progesterone. It’s commonly taken every day for 21 days before having a maximum 7-day break, when you are likely to have a withdrawal bleed, similar to a period. It can also be taken continuously (without any breaks) or by tricycling it (taking 3 pill packets then having a 4-day break).
2. Progesterone-only pill (‘the mini pill’) – does not contain oestrogen and is taken every day without a break.

Both types work by stopping your ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation), but they can also thicken cervical mucus to make it harder for sperm to reach an egg, and thin the womb lining to stop an egg from implanting itself.

The combined pill and most progesterone-only pills (mini pills) are prescription-only, but Hana is an over-the-counter mini pill.

Contraceptive patches

Contraceptive patches, like the Evra Patch, are small, sticky, topical contraception methods that release hormones, similar to the pill. The main difference is that they release hormones into the bloodstream through the skin instead. By releasing oestrogen and progesterone, the patch prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus to reduce the risk of pregnancy.

Contraceptive patches require a prescription and are applied weekly to your skin for 3 weeks, followed by a patch-free week. They can be a good alternative to the combined pill because they need to be changed once per week rather than needing to be taken daily.

Contraceptive implant

The contraceptive implant is a small, flexible rod, around the size of a matchstick, that is inserted under the skin of the upper arm by a doctor or nurse. It steadily releases a synthetic form of progesterone to prevent ovulation, thicken your cervical mucus, and thin the womb lining.

It’s a long-term form of contraception because it works for 3 years before needing to be replaced. So, you do not need to do anything while the implant is in place, like remember to take a daily pill, making it a more convenient option.

Vaginal rings

The vaginal ring is a small, flexible ring placed inside the vagina that steadily releases oestrogen and progesterone. It’s usually worn for 3 weeks, does not interfere with sex, and can be inserted by yourself.

After 3 weeks, it’s removed and you should experience a withdrawal bleed. The vaginal ring, like NuvaRing, works by stopping ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus, and thinning the lining of the womb. You will need a prescription from a doctor to get the vaginal ring.

Barrier contraceptive options work by physically stopping sperm from entering the womb and fertilising an egg. They are often used alongside other methods to increase their effectiveness, such as spermicide, and in some cases, can also protect against STIs.

They can be a good alternative if you cannot or would prefer not to use hormonal birth control methods.

Male and female condoms

Condoms are the most commonly used barrier method of contraception. They offer several advantages because they are cheap, widely available, and can be effective. They can also protect you from STIs.

To provide reliable protection, condoms need to be the correct size and they need to be in good condition. Condoms should never be reused. Many sexual health clinics will give away some condoms for free. The most commonly used material is latex. However, you can also buy condoms made from polyurethane or lambskin for people with latex allergies. Unlike rubber condoms, lambskin condoms do not prevent STIs.

Female condoms or a “Femidom” are also available and can be inserted inside the vagina up to 8 hours before sex. They are less effective at preventing STIs and can be more expensive.

Both male and female condoms can be bought in most UK pharmacies, supermarkets, and online.

Sponges

The contraceptive sponge is a soft, foam device that is inserted inside the vagina before sex. It contains spermicide to slow sperm down, stopping them from reaching an egg. It also covers the cervix, preventing sperm from entering the womb.

The sponge cannot be reused, but once it is in, you can use it for up to 24 hours. Most women find it a convenient contraceptive method because it can be inserted yourself, is safe to use during breastfeeding, and it does not interrupt sex.

However, it may not be suitable for everyone, and may cause irritation or may be difficult to insert or remove for some women. The contraceptive sponge does not protect you from STIs.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are long-term effective types of contraception, commonly known as a coil. They can be a good option for women who are looking for a long-term birth control method. You will need to make an appointment with your GP to have an IUD fitted. The procedure can be uncomfortable, but is quick.

There are 2 main types of IUD:

1. Hormonal or intrauterine system (IUS).
2. Non-hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) or copper coil.

Some of the similarities and differences are shown in the table below:

Some couples prefer to rely on natural contraception methods, which rely on your understanding of and tracking your body’s natural fertility signs to avoid pregnancy. Unlike hormonal or barrier methods, they do not involve physical devices, pills, or patches, but instead rely on behaviour or awareness of the menstrual cycle.

The NHS states that perfect use of natural birth control is 91 to 99%, but is more like 76% for typical use. There are 2 common natural contraception methods that you can try to prevent pregnancy.

Fertility tracking through apps

Fertility apps use algorithms to track various fertility signs. Factors like body temperature, cervical mucus, and the start date of your cycle are all indicators of your fertility status and can be used to predict ovulation. By predicting their fertile window, users can choose to avoid unprotected sex or use additional forms of contraception during this time to prevent pregnancy.

Withdrawal method

The withdrawal method involves a partner withdrawing their penis from the vagina before ejaculation. This method relies on self-control and timing, and its effectiveness is largely reliant on how well it is practised.

Permanent contraception or sterilisation is a surgical option available for both people with penises and vaginas, but it is only recommended if you are certain that you do not wish to have children.

Tubal ligation

Tubal ligation, also known as getting your tubes tied, is a surgical procedure for people with vaginas where their fallopian tubes are either tied, blocked, or cut. This procedure prevents eggs from travelling from the ovaries to the uterus, preventing sperm from reaching the egg, and effectively stopping the possibility of pregnancy.

Tubal ligation is more than 99% effective, does not affect your hormones, and you’ll still get periods. However, it is a permanent solution and comes with some disadvantages, including:

• it’s not always reversible, and even if it is, there’s no guarantee that it will restore your fertility
• there are risks associated with the surgery, including infection, bleeding, and injury
• you will need to rest and recover for at least 7 days
• the procedure can have an emotional impact, especially if you decide you’d like children later in life

Vasectomy

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure for people with penises where the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra, called the vas deferens, are cut, tied, or sealed. This stops sperm from mixing with semen and being ejaculated during sex to effectively prevent pregnancy.

The procedure is simple and does not require you to stay in the hospital afterwards. In extremely rare cases, the connection between the tubes can grow back, meaning the man can become fertile again.

The pros and cons of a vasectomy are shown in the table below:

Emergency contraception is a birth control method that can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, such as condom breakage or missed pills. It’s usually most effective if used as soon as possible after the event, but can be used for a few days afterwards, depending on the method.

Emergency contraception is not intended to be a regular form of contraception, but a backup in case of contraception failure or misuse. There are 2 main types available: the emergency contraceptive pill and the copper IUD.

Emergency contraceptive pills

Also known as the morning after pill, emergency contraceptive pills work by stopping your ovaries from releasing an egg. They contain either ulipristal acetate or levonorgestrel as their active ingredients.

At Superdrug Online Doctor, we offer the following morning after pills:

The copper IUD

The copper coil can also be used as an emergency contraception if inserted by a doctor or nurse within 5 days after unprotected sex.

Contraception is a vital aspect of reproductive and sexual health, giving you the ability to prevent pregnancy. There are many different types of contraception available, including hormonal, non-hormonal, barrier, and natural methods, as well as emergency options if a contraceptive failure or unprotected sex occurs. For those who are sure they do not want children or who do not want any more, permanent options like getting your tubes tied or a vasectomy may be suitable alternatives.

Each method varies in the way it works, its effectiveness, potential side effects, and whether it provides STI protection. Some methods require a prescription from a doctor, others are available over the counter, while some require insertion or administration by a trained healthcare professional. It’s important to consider your individual health, lifestyle, and personal preferences when selecting a birth control method.

For more detailed information, please explore the links below.