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Barlow Medical Centre

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Family Planning / Contraception

All our Doctors provide a complete and confidential family planning advice service. Your doctor can advise you on the best method for you, according to your age and health.

Methods of contraception

parents and children lying on a bed

Combined pill

The combined oral contraceptive pill is the most common form of contraception. When taken correctly, it remains as one of the most successful contraceptives available. Not all women either suit the pill or can take it. Others, because of smoking or increasing blood pressure are not suitable to remain on it beyond the age of 35.

The Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An IUD is a small plastic and copper device that is fitted into your womb. It has one or two soft threads on the end. These thin threads come through the opening at the neck of your womb (cervix) into the top of your vagina. IUDs should only be fitted by a trained doctor or nurse. An IUD can stay in for three to ten years, depending on type. An IUD used to be called a 'coil'.

Diaphragms and caps

Diaphragms and caps are barrier methods of contraception. Vaginal diaphragms are circular domes made of thin, soft rubber with a flexible rim. Cervical caps are smaller. New varieties of caps are becoming available made from silicone. To be effective, diaphragms and caps need to be used with a spermicide. Spermicides are chemicals which destroy sperm.

Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraceptive pills contain a progestogen hormone which is similar to the natural progesterone women produce in their ovaries. They should be taken within three days (72 hours) of having unprotected sex. They are more effective the sooner they are taken. However they are not as effective as using other methods of contraception such as the pill or condoms regularly and do not protect you against sexually transmitted infections.

Contraceptive patch

A thin, beige patch about the size of a matchbox is applied every week for three weeks. It contains two hormones - oestrogen and progestogen. A constant daily dose of hormones are released into the bloodstream through the skin. Its main action is the same as the combined oral contraceptive pill; it stops the ovaries from releasing an egg each month (ovulation).

More information about contraception