Smart Protection for Every Stage of Life
Contraception supports women’s health by preventing unplanned pregnancies and giving control over reproductive choices. From pills to IUDs, this guide explains each option and helps you choose what’s best for your lifestyle and future plans.
The contraceptive pill is a widely used, hormone-based birth control method taken orally each day. There are two main types:
Combined Pill:
Contains two hormones, oestrogen and progestogen, which work together to prevent ovulation (the release of an egg).
Progestogen-Only Pill (Mini Pill):
Contains only progestogen and primarily works by thickening cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. It may also thin the womb lining and, in some cases, suppress ovulation.
The pill must be taken once daily, ideally at the same time every day.
Combined Pill:
Typically taken for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break or with placebo pills during which a withdrawal bleed occurs.
Mini Pill:
Taken continuously with no break between packs.
While many people tolerate the pill well, some may experience side effects, especially in the first few months, including:
Most side effects subside after a few weeks, but if they persist or worsen, it may be worth discussing alternative pill types or methods with a healthcare provider.
Setting daily reminders or using pill tracking apps can help improve consistency.
The contraceptive patch is a small skin patch that releases oestrogen and progestogen into the bloodstream. These hormones prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
The vaginal ring is a small, flexible, plastic ring inserted into the vagina, where it steadily releases oestrogen and progestogen. These hormones prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. Because the hormones are delivered locally, lower doses are required compared to some other hormonal contraceptives.
With typical use, the vaginal ring is around 91% effective, meaning 9 in every 100 women may become pregnant each year. When used perfectly, effectiveness increases to over 99%.
The contraceptive injection (e.g., Depo-Provera) delivers progestogen into a muscle or under the skin. It prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus to block sperm, and thins the womb lining to reduce implantation chances.
With typical use, the contraceptive injection is about 94% effective, meaning 6 in every 100 women may become pregnant each year. With perfect use (timely injections), its effectiveness rises to over 99%.
The IUD is a small, T‑shaped device inserted into the womb by a trained healthcare professional. There are two main types:
Copper IUD:
Uses copper to create an environment toxic to sperm and eggs, preventing fertilisation.
Hormonal IUD (e.g., Mirena, Kyleena):
Releases progestogen, which thickens cervical mucus, thins the womb lining, and may suppress ovulation in some women.
Copper IUD:
Provides protection for 5–10 years depending on the type.
Hormonal IUD:
Provides protection for 3–5 years depending on the brand. Once inserted, no daily or weekly maintenance is needed, making it a “fit and forget” option.
The contraceptive implant is a small, flexible plastic rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm by a trained healthcare professional. It steadily releases progestogen, a hormone that prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus to stop sperm reaching an egg, and thins the womb lining to prevent implantation.
| Method | Typical-Use Failure Rate | Ease of Use | Duration of Protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pill | ~9% | Must be taken daily at the same time; higher risk of missed doses | 1 day (must be taken daily) |
| IUD | <1% | One-off fitting by a professional; minimal maintenance | 3–10 years (depending on type) |
| Implant | <1% | Single insertion under the skin, no daily action required and easily reversible | Up to 3 years |
There are many options available, including pills, patches, injections, implants, and IUDs. Each offers different benefits depending on your lifestyle and health needs.
It’s important to review your contraceptive needs if you:
Schedule your private contraception consultation today to find a method tailored to your health and lifestyle.
Our women’s health specialists offer tailored advice, prescription support, and fitting procedures for methods such as the implant or IUD.
If you’re currently using contraception but want to change due to side effects or lifestyle changes, we can help you transition safely and effectively.
Book a consultation with our women’s health specialists or explore our contraception services designed for your needs.
Where can I get contraception in the UK, and is it free?
Most types of contraception are free through the NHS. You can access them from your GP surgery, contraception and sexual health clinics (also known as GUM clinics), some pharmacies that provide certain pills and emergency contraception, and trusted NHS-partnered online services that can prescribe and deliver contraception discreetly.
What types of contraception are available?
Contraception options include short-acting methods such as the combined pill, mini pill, patch, and vaginal ring, as well as long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) like implants, hormonal coils (IUS), non-hormonal coils (IUD), and injections. Barrier methods include male and female condoms, diaphragms, and caps, while permanent options include female sterilisation and male vasectomy.
How do I choose the right method?
The best method depends on your health, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Factors to consider include effectiveness, any medical conditions, convenience (for example, daily pills versus long-term “fit and forget” methods), how each option affects your periods, and whether you are planning to have children in the near future. Your GP or nurse can help you choose the most suitable option for your needs.
What are LARCs and why are they recommended?
Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), such as implants, coils, and injections, are highly recommended because they are over 99% effective and don’t require daily attention. Once fitted, they provide reliable protection for months or even years, making them convenient and stress-free.
What if I make a mistake (e.g., miss a pill)?
If you miss a pill or have an issue with your contraception, check the instructions in your patient information leaflet, as guidance can vary depending on the type of pill or device. You may need to use condoms for a short period or consider emergency contraception. If you are unsure, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or sexual health clinic for advice as soon as possible.
Will contraception affect my periods or cause side effects?
Hormonal contraception can change your bleeding pattern, making periods lighter, more irregular, or even stopping them altogether. Some people may experience side effects like headaches, mood changes, nausea, or breast tenderness, which often improve after the first few months. Non-hormonal options like the copper IUD don’t have hormonal effects but may make periods heavier or more painful.
Does contraception protect against STIs?
Only condoms offer protection against sexually transmitted infections. Other methods like pills, coils, or implants prevent pregnancy but not STIs, so using condoms alongside another method (dual protection) is the best way to stay protected.
When and how can I get emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception can be used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. You can take emergency pills such as Levonelle (effective up to 3 days after sex) or ellaOne (effective up to 5 days). The copper IUD is the most effective option and can be fitted up to 5 days after unprotected sex. Emergency contraception is available free from GPs, clinics, or to buy in most pharmacies.
How easy is it to switch or stop contraception?
Switching or stopping contraception is straightforward and can be done at any time with the help of a GP or clinic. For most methods, fertility returns quickly after stopping. However, it may take up to a year for fertility to return to normal after using the contraceptive injection.
Are visits confidential, even if I’m under 16?
Yes, contraception services in the UK are confidential for all ages. If you are under 16, healthcare professionals will not inform your parents or carers as long as you understand the advice and decisions you are making. This follows the Fraser Guidelines, which ensure young people can access care safely and privately.
