It doesn’t matter if you’re single, in a relationship or married, contraception is a must for all ages to prevent STIs and unwanted pregnancy so we spoke to woman’s health specialist Dr Caroline Cooper to find out which contraception is best suited to you!
Relationships on Female First
There are 15 types of contraception available, which would you say are the best?
Dr Caroline Cooper – “There are a number of effective methods of contraception. Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are particularly effective, as women do not have to remember them every day. The injection is effective for three months, the implant for three years, the IUS (the hormonal coil) for five years and the IUD (the copper coil) is effective from five to ten years.”
Which types of contraception should you make sure you’re using if you’re single?
DC – “Definitely condoms so that you protect yourself against STIs. Otherwise its entirely up to you. Some women may prefer a method they can stop and start themselves such as the Pill, ring or patch. But others may be happier having a long-acting method that will provide contraception for several years, whether they are in a relationship or not. Often women find that the positive benefits of contraception such as control of periods through combined methods and the IUS means that they continue using them even when they do not need contraception.”
And which contraception should you be using in a relationship?
DC – “Whatever suits you as a couple. Some women may want a long-acting method which doesn’t need to be remembered each day, or if you are considering starting a family soon, then a method that you can stop yourself, such as the Pill may appeal. Apart from the injection, all long-acting methods can be removed at any time by a trained doctor or nurse and fertility should return immediately.”
Everyone has different preferences but which types of contraception are most suitable to young adults, and which are more suited to the older generations?
DC – “There is no method of contraception that should not be used based on age alone, but as women get older they are more likely to have medical conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease which can make some methods of contraception unsuitable. The most important aspect in choosing a contraceptive method is looking at each woman as an individual.”
Do you have any tips for those considering their contraception options?
DC – “Get as much information as you can, either online or from leaflets from your GP or sexual health clinic. Consider your lifestyle, would you be able to remember contraception every day or would a "fit and forget" method such as the implant, injection IUS or IUD be more suitable for you? Think about other aspects of your health as well: some Pills can help with acne, and the combined pill and IUS can help with heavy periods. Finally, there are a lot of myths out there about contraception, so try to ignore the negative comments online or from friends and family, and discuss contraception with your doctor or nurse who will be able to help you to make an informed choice which is right for you.”