Which Contraception Should I use?

The Pill? Condom? Injection?

These days contraception is all about choice! What works for your friends may be unsuitable for you! What contraception gets the best results for them may not be the case for you! With such a selection available, we're confident we can help you find a contraception that suits you and your lifestyle perfectly. For more detailed information we suggest that you make an appointment to discuss the various merits of each contraception with a health professional. Below is a listing of the more popular forms of contraception available from INP Medical Clinic.

The Pill

The most common form of contraception is used in the country and throughout the world. The pill, or combined oral contraceptive comes in many different formulations, and we can advise which one is the best suited to you. The major benefits of the pill are it's effectiveness, it provides 100% protection from unwanted pregnancy. It can be taken at a time unconnected with intercourse, and it's fully reversible - so once you decide to start a family you just stop taking it!

The Condom

Condoms, the second most popular form of contraception, the only proven barrier to the transmission of HIV, and good protection against other sexually transmitted infections. Because of this, we quite often see condoms being used in association with other contraception. Condoms alone are about 90 - 98% effective in preventing pregnancy. If a condom doesn't work it can nearly always be traced back to incorrect use of the condom, or use of lubricants that damage the rubber and lead to its rupture. Always use condoms with a water based lube like K-Y Jelly, or Wetstuff.

The Injection

Depo Provera is a simple injection that is given every 12 weeks and is a contraception that's growing in popularity. The injection deposits microcrystals of progesterone that slowly release into the bloodstream. This acts on the pituitary gland to stop ovulation and thicken the cervical mucus which makes it difficult for sperm to penetrate and makes the uterus thinner and less receptive to any fertilized egg. It's the most effective form of contraception, is ideal for people who forget to take pills, it's non-intercourse related, and though there is a delay it's fully reversible when you want to start a family.

Implants (Implanon and Jadelle)

Implants are tiny rods which are inserted just under the skin of the forearm. The rods contain small amounts of the hormone progesterone, which is slowly released over a number of years to give excellent contraception.
There are 2 common types:
Jadelle : is 2 tiny rods which can stay in place for up to 5 years
Implanon : is 1 tiny rod which can stay in place up to 3 years
There can be side-effects. The most common side-effect is irregular bleeding which can be annoying. Many women tolerate the side-effects because they find so many benefits in having a contraception which is so effective and which they don't have to worry about for years.

IUCDs (Intra-uterine Devices)

These are small plastic and sometimes copper devices which are inserted, by a doctor, into a woman's womb (uterus). These used to be recommended only for women who had already had a baby, but now the research shows that even young woman can be safely fitted with an IUCD. It can be a really good form of contraception for many young women too because it is reliable, you don't have to remember to take pills, and it can last for up to 5 years.

There are many choices - there are many decisions - contraception is all about you - and we're here to help you make the right ones.