Contraception comes in many forms which you and your healthcare practitioner can discuss which best suits your needs.

Hormonal Methods

• These use hormones to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or thin the uterine lining.

• Birth control pills (combined estrogen and progestin or progestin-only).

• Contraceptive patch.

• Vaginal ring (e.g., NuvaRing).

• Hormonal IUD (e.g., Mirena, Kyleena).

• 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.

• Injectable contraceptives (e.g., Depo-Provera)

• Implants (e.g., Nexplanon)

Barrier Methods

These physically block sperm from reaching the egg.

• Male condoms

• Female condoms

• Diaphragm

• Cervical cap

• Sponge with spermicide

Natural Methods

• Based on tracking fertility and avoiding sex during fertile periods.

• Fertility awareness methods (calendar, basal body temperature, cervical mucus)

• Withdrawal method

Permanent Methods

Surgical options for people who do not want children in the future.

• Tubal ligation (for women)

• Vasectomy (for men)

Emergency Contraception

Used after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.

• Emergency contraceptive pills (e.g., Plan B, Ella)

• 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.