Choosing contraception is a personal decision that depends on your health, lifestyle, relationship, and future family plans. There is no single "best" method — the best method is the one you will use consistently.
Barrier Methods: Condoms (male and female) — the only contraceptives that also protect against STIs. 85–98% effective. The female condom (internal condom) gives women control and is highly effective.
Hormonal Methods: The combined pill (oestrogen + progestogen) — 91–99% effective when taken correctly. Take at the same time daily. The progestogen-only pill (mini-pill) — suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen, including breastfeeding mothers. The hormonal implant — a small rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm, lasts 3–5 years, 99% effective.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs): The copper IUD — hormone-free, lasts up to 10–12 years, 99% effective. Can also be used as emergency contraception within 5 days of unprotected sex. The injectable (Depo-Provera) — given every 12 weeks, 94–99% effective.
Emergency Contraception: "Morning-after" pill — effective up to 72 hours after unprotected sex (some types up to 120 hours). NOT an abortion pill. The copper IUD — most effective form of emergency contraception (over 99%).
Fertility Awareness Methods: Tracking your cycle to avoid sex during fertile windows. Requires careful monitoring and regular cycles. Less effective than other methods (76–88% with typical use).
Permanent Methods: Tubal ligation (female sterilisation) and vasectomy (male sterilisation) — considered permanent. Only appropriate if you are certain you do not want future pregnancies.
Key message: All contraceptives except condoms do NOT protect against STIs. If STI protection is needed, always use condoms — even alongside other contraceptive methods.
