Contraception comes in many forms which you and your healthcare practitioner can discuss which best suits your needs.
Hormonal Methods
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These use hormones to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or thin the uterine lining.
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Birth control pills (combined estrogen and progestin or progestin-only).
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Contraceptive patch.
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Vaginal ring (e.g., NuvaRing).
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Hormonal IUD (e.g., Mirena, Kyleena).
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Copper IUD while not technically a hormone acts to release ions to affect sperm mobility and also irritates the womb lining to make it inhospitable for eggs.
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Injectable contraceptives (e.g., Depo-Provera)
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Implants (e.g., Nexplanon)
Barrier Methods
These physically block sperm from reaching the egg.
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Male condoms
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Female condoms
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Diaphragm
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Cervical cap
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Sponge with spermicide
Natural Methods
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Based on tracking fertility and avoiding sex during fertile periods.
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Fertility awareness methods (calendar, basal body temperature, cervical mucus)
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Withdrawal method
Permanent Methods
Surgical options for people who do not want children in the future.
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Tubal ligation (for women)
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Vasectomy (for men)
Emergency Contraception
Used after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.
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Emergency contraceptive pills (e.g., Plan B, Ella)
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Copper IUD (most effective if inserted within 5 days)
Depending on your lifestyle, if you have many partners, a barrier method plus a hormonal one would be best.
If you have already had your family you may decide to have a vasectomy or IUD.
All of these interventions require a follow up with your doctor to see if they suit your body.
