There are currently around fifteen different types of contraception available. Here, we’ve compiled a list with an explanation of each one. To find out which contraceptive might be right for you, we recommend thinking about your specific circumstances, reviewing each type and considering their unique risks and benefits. While many contraceptives are very effective in preventing pregnancy, it is important to remember that they do not all protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Barrier contraceptives

Male condoms

Condoms are the only form of contraception that protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Due to their popularity, they are affordable and widely available. They are normally made from thin latex, polyurethane, polyisoprene or synthetic nitrile. They can also help to protect against vaginal infections. In ordinary circumstances, in which a condom of the right size is worn correctly, male condoms are 98% effective.

Spermicide

Spermicide acts as a chemical barrier. It prevents pregnancy by stopping sperm from reaching the uterus by blocking the entrance. It also affects the sperms’ ability to swim well. It must be used in conjunction with another form of contraception, such as a diaphram, because it is not effective in preventing pregnancy when used on its own.

Female condoms

Female condoms are normally made from nitrile rubber and are worn internally inside the vagina. Like male condoms, they protect against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. They are slightly less effective than male condoms at preventing pregnancy, at 95% effective.

The diaphragm

A diaphragm, also known as a cervical cap, is a flexible silicone dome that is positioned against the top of the cervix, preventing sperm from entering the uterus. It can be used in conjunction with spermicides. It does not cover the mucous membrane of the vaginal walls and therefore it cannot protect against sexually transmitted infections. Some women may prefer to use a diaphragm because it is a hormone-free form of contraception. They are normally 94% effective at preventing pregnancy.

The vaginal sponge

A vaginal sponge, also known as a contraceptive sponge, is a device made from polyurethane foam containing spermicide. It can be inserted manually in the vagina before sex to prevent against pregnancy. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. In order to be effective, the sponge must stay in place inside the vagina for 6 hours after sex. When used correctly, it is 88% effective.

Hormonal contraceptives

The combined pill

The combined pill, often known as simply the pill, is a widely-used form of hormonal contraceptive for women. It normally involves taking one pill each day for 21 days before taking a seven-day break where you’ll have a bleed, much like a period. Excluding the morning after pill, contraceptive pills cannot be bought over-the-counter and will need to be prescribed by a doctor. As well as preventing against pregnancy, it can also help with hormonal problems, such as acne, heavy periods and menstrual cramps. It does not protect against STIs. When taken correctly, it is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

The progestogen-only mini pill

The progestogen-only pill, sometimes known as the mini pill, emerged as a result of the side effects caused by the combined pill due to oestrogens. It is normally only prescribed in cases in which a woman is advised not to take oestrogen. It has to be taken every day, with no breaks, at roughly the same time in order to be effective. When taken correctly, it is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

The morning-after pill (MAP)

The morning-after pill is a form of emergency contraception. Due to the extremely high dose of synthetic hormones it contains, it is not recommended to be used on a regular basis. It prevents pregnancy by stopping or delaying the release of an egg. It is only effective if taken within 72 hours of having sex and the sooner you take it, the more effective it is. If taken within 24 hours, it is 95% effective in preventing pregnancy. If taken within 48 hours, it is 85% effective in preventing pregnancy. If taken within 72 hours, it is 58% effective in preventing pregnancy.

The contraceptive patch

The contraceptive patch is a square adhesive patch that is applied directly to the skin. It is very easy to use. It is changed once a week for three weeks with a break in the fourth week, in which you have a bleed similar to a period. When used correctly, the patch is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

The vaginal ring

A vaginal ring is a rubber ring made from an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer that releases oestrogen and progesterone. It is easy to use and can be inserted at home without medical assistance. Once inserted, it lasts for three weeks before it needs to be removed. In the fourth week, you will have a bleed similar to a period. When used correctly, the vaginal ring is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

The contraceptive injection

The contraceptive injection has similar benefits and side effects to the combined pill, however it is considered to be more hassle-free. Once a contraceptive injection is administered, it lasts for three months. It must be administered by a medical professional. When administered on time, contraceptive injections are more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. Like the pill, they do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

The contraceptive implant

The contraceptive impact is a highly effective and long-lasting form of contraception. A small plastic tube is implanted subcutaneously which releases hormones and prevents pregnancy. It is implanted by a medical professional under a local anaesthetic, so it does not hurt. It normally lasts for three years. It is the most effective form of contraception available today and is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Intrauterine Contraceptives

Intrauterine device (IUS and IUD)

An intrauterine device, also known as a coil, is a small plastic device that is inserted into the uterus. There are two different types, the hormonal IUS and the copper IUD, which is hormone-free. Both are safe and effective long-term methods of contraception. The insertion of the IUS or IUD is performed by a trained medical professional and lasts no longer than 20 minutes. While the insertion itself is painless, some women experience some discomfort and cramping for following 24 – 48 hours. Once inserted, the hormonal IUS (commonly referred to as the Mirena coil) is effective in preventing pregnancy for five years. The T-shaped copper IUD is effective in preventing pregnancy for up to ten years. Both the IUS and IUD are over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Permanent methods of contraception

Vasectomy

This is a simple surgical procedure in which the vas deferens (the ducts which transport sperm), are either tied or severed depending on whether the procedure is intended to be permanent. It prevents sperm from reaching the uterus, thus preventing pregnancy.

Tubal ligation

This is carried out by means of a surgical procedure or by endoscopy. Tubal refers to a woman’s fallopian tubes, and the procedure involves cutting or blocking the tubes. It is a permanent procedure and cannot be reversed.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always see a gynaecologist if you need help choosing the most suitable contraceptive method for you. Here at IVI, our expert team would be delighted to help.