There are many types of contraceptives. Contraceptives can be either hormonal or non-hormonal. When choosing a contraceptive, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each type. Keep in mind that what works for one person may not necessarily suit another.
Contraceptives
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Condom
The condom is the only way to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) when used correctly. For the condom to be effective in reducing the risk of infection, it is essential to use it from the beginning so that the mucous membranes of those engaging in sexual activity do not come into contact.
Always use a condom when engaging in intercourse with someone you know little or nothing about. As a contraceptive, it works by preventing semen from entering the vagina during intercourse.
Condoms are widely available, including in grocery stores, gas stations, and pharmacies. They come in various colors, types, and flavors.
You can cut the condom to create a dental dam, which can be used for oral sex!
Do you have a latex allergy? Latex-free condoms are available!
Birth Control Pill
The birth control pill is a hormonal tablet that is taken daily. It comes in two types:
- One type contains two hormones: estrogen and progestogen. There are many different combinations, and some people may need to try different pills to find the one that suits them.
- The other contains only one hormone, progestogen, and is called the mini-pill or progestin-only pill (it can be taken while breastfeeding).
Usage
To start using the pill, you need a prescription. This can be obtained, for example, at a health clinic or from a gynecologist. The pill should be taken daily, always at the same time. Some take a week-long break from the pill every three weeks, but this is not necessary. It is important to read the package insert carefully and consult with healthcare professionals.
Effectiveness
The pill is a very reliable contraceptive when taken regularly according to instructions, but it is essential to always remember to take it. If the pill is missed, it should be taken as soon as you remember. A missed pill can reduce its effectiveness, so it’s good to use a condom for the next week.
Risks
The risks of using the birth control pill have been studied, and there are findings that show a measurable increase in some cancers but a decrease in others. Another serious risk associated with the combined pill is blood clots, and there is a slight difference between types. Those who smoke or are overweight are at increased risk of developing blood clots.
Possible side effects:
- Skin changes
- Mood swings
- Weight gain
- Breast tenderness
- Spotting or breakthrough bleeding
- Decreased libido
- And others
Vaginal Ring
The vaginal ring is a thin plastic ring about 5 cm in diameter. It contains the hormones estrogen and progestogen. To start using the ring, you first need a prescription. For first-time use, the ring is inserted at the top of the vagina after menstruation and kept there for 3 weeks. Then it is removed, and a new ring is inserted either immediately or after one week (a break for menstruation).
The plastic ring is relatively soft and easy to insert. If it is noticeable during sex, it can be removed for up to 3 hours and then reinserted.
Main benefits of the ring:
- Highly effective contraceptive (+99%)
- No need to remember it daily
- Good menstrual control, with rare breakthrough bleeding
- Few side effects
- Contains much less hormone than the pill
Due to environmental concerns, used rings should not be thrown in household waste but taken to a pharmacy for proper disposal, like other medications. Each ring only works for 3 weeks.
Possible side effects:
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Decreased libido
- Weight gain
- Mood swings
- And others
Contraceptive Injection
The contraceptive injection (Depo-Provera) is a form of hormonal contraceptive containing the hormone gestagen. It is administered into a muscle every 3 months (8–12 weeks). A nurse at a healthcare clinic can give the injection, or it can be self-administered at home if the individual feels confident doing so. To start using the injection, a prescription is required, which can be obtained from a healthcare clinic or a gynecologist.
Main advantages of the injection:
- Highly effective contraceptive (+99%)
- No need to remember daily contraception
- Often leads to the absence of menstruation, which many find desirable. This lack of bleeding is completely safe.
Important to note:
If the injection is discontinued, its effects can persist for several months after the last dose.
Possible side effects:
- Skin changes
- Mood swings
- Breast tenderness
- Headache
- And others
IUD
The intrauterine device (IUD) is a small T-shaped plastic object that a doctor or midwife places inside the uterus. An ultrasound is recommended both before and after insertion to assess the uterus and the placement of the IUD. A doctor or midwife must also remove the IUD, which can be done at any time after insertion.
There are two types of IUDs:
Hormonal IUD
The hormonal IUD contains a small hormone reservoir that steadily releases a tiny amount of hormones. The hormonal IUD contains the hormone gestagen. In Iceland, three main types of hormonal IUDs are commonly used:
- Mirena: Effective as contraception for 8 years, or for 5 years if used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Jaydess: Effective as contraception for 3 years. It is slightly smaller than Mirena.
- Kyleena: Effective as contraception for 5 years. It is the same size as Jaydess.
Main advantages of the hormonal IUD:
- Highly effective contraceptive (+99%)
- No need to remember daily usage
- Reduces or completely eliminates bleeding, which many women find desirable
- Localized effect only
- Lower hormone levels compared to other hormonal contraceptives
- Effective immediately after insertion, with effects stopping immediately upon removal
- Prevents pregnancy both in the uterus and outside of it
Possible side effects (often temporary):
- Spotting or breakthrough bleeding
- Mood swings
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Abdominal and back pain
- And others
Copper IUD
The copper IUD is made of plastic and a small amount of copper, which enhances its effectiveness. It sits in the uterus, where it works to prevent pregnancy, with no other effects on the body. An ultrasound is recommended both before and after insertion to assess the uterus and the placement of the IUD. The IUD can be used for as long as necessary for contraception, up to 10 years.
Main advantages of the copper IUD:
- Highly effective contraceptive (+99%)
- Provides localized protection
- Cannot be forgotten
- Does not affect hormonal function in the body
Increased menstrual bleeding is the most common side effect, so the copper IUD may not be suitable for those with heavy periods.
Note that the copper IUD provides localized protection within the uterus and is not effective for preventing pregnancy outside the uterus (ectopic pregnancy).
Contraceptive Implant
The contraceptive implant contains the hormone gestagen and is a small plastic rod that a doctor or midwife places under the skin of the upper arm. The implant can be felt by touch but is not visible. Each implant lasts for 3 years, but it can be removed by a doctor or midwife at any time. The skin is locally numbed both when the implant is inserted and removed.
Main advantages of the implant:
- Highly effective contraceptive (+99%)
- No need to remember daily contraception
- Often leads to the absence of menstruation, which many find desirable. This lack of bleeding is completely safe.
- The effects of the implant stop immediately after removal.
Possible side effects (often temporary):
- Irregular bleeding
- Weight gain
- Skin changes
- And others
Contraceptive Patch
The contraceptive patch contains the hormones estrogen and gestagen. The patch contains a reservoir that lasts for one week. During the first use, the patch is placed on the arm, shoulder, or another suitable area of the body after menstruation. After one week, the patch is replaced, and this cycle is repeated for a total of three weeks with a patch. The fourth week is without a patch to allow for menstruation. However, it is also possible to use the patch continuously to stop menstruation.
Main advantages of the patch:
- Highly effective contraception
- No need to remember daily use
- Few side effects
Due to environmental concerns, used patches should not be thrown away in household waste but should be taken to a pharmacy for disposal, like other medications. The patch is used less frequently today compared to other contraceptives. It requires a prescription.
Possible side effects:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- And others
If you have any questions regarding contraception, don't hesitate to reach out, either via DM on Instagram (@kynfraedsla) or by email (leyndo@astradur.is).