Contraception & Family Planning

Find the Contraceptive Method That Is Right for You

There is no single contraceptive method that is best for everyone.

The choice depends on several factors, including your age, medical history, menstrual pattern, whether you are breastfeeding, how soon you may want a pregnancy, and whether you prefer a short-term, long-term or permanent method.

A consultation helps you understand the effectiveness, benefits, limitations and possible side effects of the available options before making an informed choice.

Contraceptive Options

Barrier Methods

Condoms are easy to use, readily available and do not contain hormones. They also have the important advantage of helping reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.

They may be suitable for couples who prefer a non-hormonal and reversible method.

Oral Contraceptive Pills

Birth-control pills can provide effective contraception when taken correctly.

Different formulations are available, and the appropriate pill should be selected according to the woman's medical history and individual requirements.

Some hormonal contraceptives may also provide additional benefits such as improved menstrual-cycle control and reduction in menstrual pain or heavy bleeding.

Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices – IUCD

An IUCD is a long-acting reversible contraceptive placed inside the uterus.

Options include:

Copper IUCD – a hormone-free method providing long-term contraception.

Hormonal intrauterine system (IUS) – provides long-term contraception and may also reduce heavy menstrual bleeding in suitable women.

IUCDs can be useful for women who want highly effective contraception without having to remember a daily tablet.

Contraceptive Injections

Injectable hormonal contraceptives provide protection for a defined period after each injection.

They may be an option for women who prefer not to take a tablet every day, although suitability and possible effects on menstrual patterns should be discussed during consultation.

Contraceptive Implants

A contraceptive implant is a small device placed under the skin of the upper arm that gradually releases a hormone.

It provides long-acting, reversible contraception and does not require daily attention.

Availability and suitability can be discussed during consultation.

Family Planning & Birth Spacing

Family planning is not simply about preventing pregnancy. It also helps couples decide when they would like to have children and how they would like to space pregnancies.

A personalised consultation may include discussion about:

• Delaying the first pregnancy

• Spacing between pregnancies

• Temporary contraception

• Long-acting reversible contraception

• Contraception after childbirth

• Contraception while breastfeeding

• Completing the family

• Planning a future pregnancy after stopping contraception

Permanent Contraception

For individuals or couples who are certain that they do not want future pregnancies, permanent contraceptive options may be considered.

Because these methods are intended to be permanent, detailed counselling regarding alternatives and future reproductive plans is important before making the decision.

Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception may be considered following unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as condom breakage or missed contraceptive pills.

Because effectiveness depends partly on how soon it is used, medical advice should be sought promptly.

Emergency contraception is intended for occasional situations and should not replace a suitable regular contraceptive method.

Contraception After Delivery

Contraceptive needs change after childbirth.

The appropriate method depends on factors such as:

• Breastfeeding

• Time since delivery

• Medical history

• Previous mode of delivery

• Future pregnancy plans

• Personal preference

Postpartum counselling can help couples plan appropriate spacing between pregnancies while selecting a method compatible with breastfeeding and maternal health.

Which Contraceptive Method Is Best for Me?

The answer is different for every woman.

During a contraceptive consultation, factors such as the following can be considered:

• Your age

• General health and medical conditions

• Blood pressure

• Menstrual pattern

• Previous pregnancies

• Breastfeeding

• Current medications

• Smoking history

• Previous contraceptive experience

• Desired duration of contraception

• Plans for future pregnancy

• Personal preferences

The aim is to choose a method that is effective, safe, acceptable and convenient for you.

When Should You Consult a Gynaecologist?

Consider a contraceptive consultation if you:

• Are sexually active and want to avoid an unplanned pregnancy

• Are unsure which contraceptive method to choose

• Experience side effects with your current contraception

• Frequently forget contraceptive pills

• Want a long-term contraceptive method

• Recently delivered a baby

• Are breastfeeding and need contraceptive advice

• Want to change or discontinue your current method

• Need emergency contraception

• Have completed your family and are considering permanent contraception

• Have medical conditions that may affect contraceptive choice

Confidential & Personalised Family Planning Advice

Contraceptive decisions should be based on reliable medical information rather than misconceptions or advice that may not apply to your individual health.

Need Help Choosing the Right Contraceptive Method?

Discuss your health, preferences and future pregnancy plans during a personalised consultation.