IUCD – Copper

An intrauterine contraceptive device or IUCD made from copper can be used as a form of non-hormonal contraception. It is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy and releases copper which alters the cervical mucus. This creates an environment where it becomes difficult for the sperm to reach an egg and survive. It prevents a fertilised egg from implanting into the uterus too and is 99% effective. It works for anywhere between 5-10 years.

Here at the Medical Hub, we provide both IUCD copper insertion and removal services. Find out more below.

Condoms

Condoms are the only type of contraception that prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). There are 2 types of condoms, an external condom that is worn on the penis and are known as male condoms. This is the most common type of condom used. The second kind is an internal condom, worn inside the vagina and is known as female condoms. They are often made from a very thin latex and work by stopping semen from coming into contact with sexual partners. It is 98% effective.

Diaphragms

A diaphragm is a circular dome shape and is made from a soft silicone. It is inserted into the vagina before sex and covers the cervix so that no sperm can reach the womb to fertilise an egg. A diaphragm is used alongside spermicide, a chemical that kills or immobilises sperm so they can’t swim to the uterus and must be inserted before any sex. It needs to left in place for at least 6 hours after sex to work. When used correctly, a diaphragm can be 92-96% effective in preventing pregnancy. It does not protect against STDs.

Natural family planning

Also known as fertility awareness, this method involves a woman monitoring and recording various fertility signals during their menstrual cycles. By keeping a record of temperature and fluids released from the cervix, you can use this method to work out when you are most likely to get pregnant. This can be up to 99% effective when done correctly and when fertility signals are recorded accurately. However these signals can also be impacted by factors such as stress or illness. Another form of contraception will need to be used if you want to have sex during a time where you are most likely to get pregnant.

Combined pill

The combined pill is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. The most common way to take a combined pill is to take one everyday for 21 days and then have a break for 7 days. During this break, you will bleed normally like a period and then resume once this break is over. Some kinds of combined pills don’t require breaks or have shorter ones. You have to take it at the same time everyday or there is a chance of pregnancy.

Patch

The patch is a small sticky patch that releases hormones into your body via the skin. It can be applied in areas like the arm, abdomen or buttocks. It is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy and each patch lasts for a week. You have to change the patch every week for 3 weeks and then a week where you take a break without a patch. It requires minimal effort and you don’t have to think about it everyday like methods such as the pill. It can be worn in the shower or swimming, and is even effective in aiding heavy or painful periods.

Injection

The contraception injection is often injected into the upper arm and works by releasing the hormone progestogen into the bloodstream. It is around 99% effective and can last anywhere between 8 to 13 weeks depending on the type of injection administered. However it does require a repeat injection after these 8 to 13 weeks to stay effective. It’s useful for those who may find other methods like the pill to be tricky to try and remember to take everyday. Some side effects with the injection include weight gain, mood swings and irregular bleeding.With some, periods may stop all together and it can also take up to a year for your fertility to return to normal after the injection. This is something to consider if you are wanting to try for a baby in the near future.

Implant

The implant is a flexible plastic rod that is placed under the skin and provides long lasting protection against pregnancy. It can last anywhere up to 3 years and more and does not have an impact on oestrogen levels in the body. The implant is 99% effective, and is a low effort method of contraception as you don’t need to think about it in the 3 or so years it remains releasing hormones. It can easily be removed if you are unhappy or are enduring side effects like irregular periods. Sometimes with the implant, periods stop all together which should be considered when thinking of receiving the implant.

Thinking of getting the implant or want yours removed? Check out our implant insertion and removal services today.

IUCD – Hormonal

An intrauterine contraceptive device that releases hormones is similar a copper IUCD. However, instead of releasing copper into the bloodstream, it releases the hormone progestogen instead to prevent pregnancy. It can last anywhere between 3 to 5 years depending on the brand of IUCD used and is 99% effective. It can be removed whenever you like and it is possible to become pregnant straight after this too. Many women also use this method of contraception to manage heavy or painful periods.

We provide both IUCD insertion and removal services, book an appointment or find out more about what we offer below.