Everything You Need to Know About Contraception

How to Choose the Right Contraception

Choosing the right contraception method depends on several factors, including:

• Personal health conditions
• Lifestyle and convenience
• Effectiveness
• Potential side effects
• Cost and availability
• Family planning

Dr Hankins can help assess these factors and recommend the most suitable options.

Types of Contraception

There are many different types of contraception to consider.

• Hormonal Contraception: Oral contraceptive pills, skin patches, vaginal rings, injections, and implants. These contain certain hormones that temporarily prevent ovulation.
• Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): Also known as long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods. Hormonal IUDs release hormones to prevent pregnancy, and copper IUDs are non-hormonal and use copper to create a toxic environment for sperm.
• Barrier Methods: Condoms (for men and women) to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, diaphragms and cervical caps which cover the cervix from the inside, and spermicides can be used with other barrier methods to kill sperm with chemicals.
• Permanent Contraception: Tubal ligation is a procedure performed to block or cut the fallopian tubes, while vasectomy cuts or seals the vas deferens in men.
• Abstinence and Outercourse: Abstinence is the choice to abstain from sex. Outercourse involves engaging in sexual activities that do not include vaginal intercourse.
• Emergency Contraception: A morning-after pill is typically taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex, while the copper IUD can be inserted up to five days after unprotected sex and used as an emergency contraceptive.

Effectiveness of Birth Control

The effectiveness of birth control methods varies significantly. Highly effective methods include IUDs, implants, and sterilisation, all of which have a success rate of over 99%. Moderately effective methods, such as pills, patches, rings, and injections, have a typical use success rate of 94-91%. Less effective methods include condoms, diaphragms, and spermicides, which have a lower success rate of 88-76% with typical use.

Benefits of Contraception

There are many benefits to contraception, including:

• Preventing unintended pregnancies
• Regulating menstrual cycles
• Reducing menstrual cramps and acne
• Lowering the risk of certain cancers
• Improving overall reproductive health

If a patient visits Dr Hankins for menstrual or reproductive concerns, she may recommend contraceptive methods to help reduce symptoms.

Side Effects of Contraception

The side effects of contraception can vary significantly depending on the method used. Understanding these potential side effects is crucial for making informed decisions. Dr Hankins will discuss these side effects with you in detail prior to a decision being made, ensuring your health is prioritised.

Hormonal Contraception

Hormonal contraception commonly causes side effects like nausea, weight gain, mood changes, and headaches. These side effects occur because the hormones in these contraceptives—usually oestrogen and progestin—alter the body’s natural hormonal balance. Some people may experience breast tenderness, spotting between periods, or decreased libido. While many of these side effects diminish over time, it’s important to monitor them and consult a healthcare provider if they persist or become severe.

IUDs

Side effects of IUDs include cramping, irregular bleeding, and a risk of expulsion, where the device partially or completely falls out of the uterus. Hormonal IUDs might lead to lighter periods or even stop them altogether, while copper IUDs can cause heavier periods and more intense menstrual cramps, especially in the first few months. There’s also a slight risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) shortly after insertion if there is an existing infection.

Barrier Methods

Barrier methods primarily cause side effects related to allergic reactions or irritation. Latex condoms can trigger allergic reactions in those with latex sensitivities, leading to itching, redness, and discomfort. Non-latex alternatives are available but may be less effective. Spermicides, often used with barrier methods, can cause vaginal irritation or increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in some users.

Permanent Methods

Permanent contraceptive methods involve surgical procedures that carry inherent risks. These risks include pain, infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia. Post-surgical discomfort and swelling are common, but serious complications are rare. Tubal ligation may also increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy in the unlikely event of a subsequent pregnancy.

Who Shouldn’t Use Contraceptives

Not all contraceptive methods are suitable for everyone. People with certain health conditions should avoid specific methods:

• Hormonal Contraceptives: Not recommended for those with a history of blood clots, certain cancers, or severe migraines.
• IUDs: Not suitable for women with uterine abnormalities or untreated pelvic infections.
• Barrier Methods: May not be ideal for those with latex allergies.
• Permanent Methods: Should be chosen only by those certain they do not want future pregnancies.

When to See Dr Kelly Hankins

Choosing the right contraceptive method is a crucial decision that impacts your overall health and well-being. While there is a wealth of information available, consulting Dr Hankins is essential to make an informed choice tailored to your individual needs.

Dr Hankins will:

• Provide comprehensive information about contraceptive methods, their effectiveness, benefits, and potential side effects.
• Evaluate your medical history and health conditions and recommend safe options that align with your health status.
• Discuss your lifestyle and personal preferences to help select a contraceptive method that you are comfortable with and more likely to use consistently.
• Offer age-appropriate recommendations to support your reproductive health goals at every life stage.

If you are already taking contraception and are experiencing side effects or have concerns about the effectiveness (such as missed pills or inconsistent use), Dr Hankins can address these and guide you towards more suitable contraceptive choices.

Contraception is an important aspect of reproductive health, offering individuals and couples control over their fertility. By understanding the types, effectiveness, and health considerations, people can make informed decisions tailored to their needs and circumstances.

Dr Kelly Hankins is dedicated to providing compassionate support to women in North Gosford and educating them on their reproductive health options, prioritising their comfort and safety.