What are your contraceptive choices?
Choosing the correct type of contraceptive can protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and prevent unplanned pregnancy. Dr Kalonji will guide you through different contraceptive methods and advise on the best birth control to suit your lifestyle.
Contraceptive options include:
- Condoms are the oldest preventative measure against sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy. Latex and polyurethane condoms offer you the best protection. There are condoms for both sexes: the male condom and a diaphragm and cervical cap with *spermicide for women. Spermicides come in foams, creams and jellies. They contain chemicals that destroy sperm. The condoms are good in preventing sexually transmitted diseases and less effective in preventing pregnancy; hence Dr Kalonji will advise on dual contraception suitable to each person.
- An intrauterine device (IUD) is made of plastic or metal that your doctor carefully inserts into your uterus. Certain IUDs emit a hormone that stops a pregnancy from happening, while copper IUDs naturally destroy sperm. This is because copper emits copper ions in a localised area which changes the uterus lining, including the composition of the cervical mucous. As a result, the inside of the uterus appears less hospitable for sperm. In addition, copper ions redirect the swimming pattern of the sperm. This makes it highly unlikely for a pregnancy to occur.
- Oral contraception (the pill) contains hormones, progestin and oestrogen that prevent your ovaries from releasing healthy eggs. The pill also thickens your cervical mucous, preventing the breach of sperm.
- A vaginal ring contains both oestrogen and progestin; it can be carefully inserted into the vagina and must be changed after three weeks. We usually give a week free interval (to allow the period to flow) and then insert a new ring afterwards.
- Patches contain both oestrogen and progestin; we apply them to the skin once per week for three consecutive weeks. Then, after a week free of the patch (to allow the period to flow), one can resume with the same method again.
- The contraceptive implant contains progestin only, and it is inserted in the non-dominant arm. It can remain in the body for up to three years.
- Emergency contraception can be used in the event you have spontaneous sexual intercourse without using protection. There are two types of this: a contraceptive pill called the "morning-after pill" and an intrauterine device/coil.
Are there risks of using contraception?
Each contraceptive, just like any medication, has side effects. However, this does not mean that the contraceptive will not work effectively. Any form of contraception, whether the pill, IUD, vaginal ring, patch or condom, all perform the same function by preventing unplanned pregnancy. Some offer increased protection against STIs, STDs and viral diseases like HIV/AIDS (especially the condoms). Some side effects are expected, which is why choosing what's right for you by following your doctor's advice is vital.
What can you expect from contraception counselling?
With a gynaecologist guiding you through the contraceptive options at your disposal, you can expect to live a healthy and safe lifestyle. Dr Kalonji will assist you in finding the appropriate contraceptive that you are most comfortable using based on your general health, gynaecological history and sexual needs. He will base his decision on your medical history, including any chronic medication you may take.
