New contraceptive options: What's right for you?

If you're ready for new contraception options, start here.

A new wave of contraceptive pills, patches and implants has hit the market in recent years - offering women more options than ever before. While these contraception methods are certainly geared towards preventing pregnancy, they also give women more control over their reproductive cycles - plus those less-than-lovely symptoms of premenstrual tension (PMT).

Today, women are choosing their contraception method based on lifestyle and health issues. After all, daily pills can't work if you forget to take them. Hormones are fine for some women, but not for all.

"What's good for one person isn't good for everybody," says Dr Patti J Ross, a professor of obstetrics, gynaecology and reproductive sciences.

In the UK, about 3.5 million women take the combined pill, which is available in a number of different brands. As well as it being a contraceptive, there are also some advantages to being on this type of pill: it can clear up acne or ease bloating and cramping. For some women, it's possible to treat certain medical conditions such as endometriosis by taking the pill, and - if it’s safe - to cut back their monthly periods. Another type of oral contraception is the mini-pill, or progestogen-only pill (POP), which has fewer known health risks than the combined pill.

For a low-maintenance approach, think about the contraceptive patch and the vaginal ring. For truly hands-free contraception, there's the intrauterine system (IUS) and a contraceptive implant that require no attention for several years. Another implanted device offers an option to tubal ligation - permanent sterilisation without surgery. 

With each of these contraceptive methods, there are benefits and disadvantages - and possible health risks. Of course, none of these types of contraception protects against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV infection. Only the male condom accomplishes that.

To help you sort through your options, here are some facts:

Combination contraceptive pills

The basics:

• Over 99% effective if taken as directed.
• Must be taken daily as directed.

Benefits:

• Cycles are more predictable.
• Periods are lighter, shorter, less frequent.
• Possible relief from PMT or acne.
• Reduced risk of ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, benign breast cysts or lumps, and ovarian and endometrial cancer.

 Disadvantages:

• Increased risk of blood clots and cervical cancer.
• Side effects include unexpected bleeding and spotting.
• Vomiting, diarrhoea and certain sedatives and antibiotics can reduce effectiveness.
• Generally not prescribed for women who smoke, are over 35 years old, or those who have family (or personal) history of certain health problems; these include: blood clots; breast, uterine or liver cancers; serious heart problems (such as heart attack) and stroke.

The mini-pill

Benefits:

• Over 99% effective if taken as directed.
• Must be taken daily as directed.
• Fewer side effects than the combined pill.
• Generally prescribed for women who shouldn’t take the combined pill, including breastfeeding mums, women who smoke, older women, and those at risk of heart disease or stroke.

Disadvantages:

• Periods can be irregular.
• Risk of ectopic pregnancy.
• May not be suitable for women with active liver disease, history of breast cancer, or history of heart disease or stroke.