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  • 12
  • June

Contraception

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Types of Contraception:

  • Barrier Methods:
    • These provide a physical barrier to prevent sperm and egg from meeting.
    • Examples include:
      • Condoms: Available for both males and females.
      • Caps and diaphragms.
  • Hormonal Methods:
    • Use hormones to prevent ovulation and alter the uterine lining.
    • Options include:
      • Oral contraceptive pills.
      • Patches.
      • Vaginal rings.
  • Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs):
    • Effective for an extended period.
    • Examples:
      • Implants: Small rods inserted under the skin.
      • Intrauterine devices (IUDs): T-shaped devices placed in the uterus.
  • Permanent Methods:

    Irreversible procedures:

    • Male sterilization (vasectomy).
    • Female sterilization (tubal ligation).
  • Emergency Contraception:
    • Used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
    • Includes the morning-after pill (emergency pill) or emergency IUD.
  • Dual Protection:

    Some methods also protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Remember, choosing the right method depends on individual preferences, health considerations, and lifestyle. Ask MyHealthnet Experts for advice or consult a healthcare provider or sexual health clinic to discuss your options and make an informed decision.

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Hormonal contraception can be an effective method for preventing pregnancy, but it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects. Here’s what you need to know:

  • 1. Common Side Effects:
    • Headaches: Some individuals may experience mild to moderate headaches when they first start taking hormonal birth control.
    • Nausea: Feeling sick is another common side effect, especially during the initial use of hormonal contraception.
    • Mood Swings: Hormonal changes can sometimes lead to mood swings.
    • Weight Gain: A small percentage of people may notice weight gain.
    • Sore Breasts: Hormonal birth control can cause breast tenderness or enlargement in some individuals.
    • Acne: Skin changes, including acne, may occur.
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  • 2. Changes to Menstrual Cycle:
    • Irregular Bleeding: Hormonal contraception can lead to irregular bleeding or spotting between periods, especially during the first few months of use.
    • Changes in Periods: Some people experience alterations in their menstrual flow or cycle length.
  • 3. Blood Clot Risk:
    • Hormonal contraception can raise the risk of blood clots. However, this risk is very low.
    • If you have specific concerns, consult a healthcare provider to discuss the risks associated with hormonal contraception.
  • 4. Breast Cancer Risk:
    • Some studies suggest a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer with hormonal contraception.
    • However, the overall risk remains low, and individual factors play a role in determining suitability.
  • 5. Duration of Side Effects:
    • If you experience side effects, they usually improve within approximately 3 months of starting hormonal contraception.
    • If side effects persist or are bothersome, consider discussing alternative contraceptive options with your GP or sexual health clinic.

Remember that each person’s experience with hormonal contraception can vary. If you have questions about your pills or any concerns, ask us or seek advice from a GP, or your provider.

Managing Side Effects

When dealing with hormonal contraception side effects, consider the following strategies:

  • 1. Patience and Adjustment:
    • Give It Time: Most side effects improve within approximately 3 months of starting hormonal contraception.
    • Monitor Changes: Keep track of how you feel and any symptoms you experience.
  • 2. Consult a Healthcare Provider:
    • Contact Your GP or Sexual Health Clinic: If side effects are bothersome, reach out to the healthcare provider who prescribed your contraception.
    • Discuss Alternatives: A different type of contraception may suit you better.
  • 3. Address Common Side Effects:
    • Headaches: Stay hydrated and manage stress.
    • Nausea: Take your pill with food or before bedtime.
    • Mood Swings: Practice stress reduction techniques.
    • Weight Gain: Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
    • Sore Breasts: Wear a supportive bra.
    • Acne: Follow a skincare routine.
  • 4. Changes to Menstrual Cycle:
    • Irregular Bleeding: Be patient; it often settles.
    • Changes in Periods: Track your cycle and discuss any concerns with your provider.
  • 5. Risk Awareness:
    • Blood Clot Risk: While the risk is low, be aware of symptoms (e.g., leg swelling, chest pain).
    • Breast Cancer Risk: Understand the small increase in risk.
  • 6. Lifestyle Factors:
    • Healthy Habits: Regular exercise, balanced diet, and adequate sleep.
    • Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases clot risk.

Remember, individual experiences vary. If you have specific concerns or need personalized advice, consult a healthcare professional. Take care of your health!

The Contraceptive Patch

The contraceptive patch offers several benefits for individuals seeking effective birth control. Here are some advantages:

  • 1. Ease of Use:
    • The contraceptive patch is very easy to use.
    • Unlike the combined oral contraceptive pill, you don’t have to think about it every day.
    • You only need to remember to change the patch once a week.
  • 2. Consistent Hormone Delivery:
    • The patch releases hormones (similar to the combined oral contraceptive pill) through the skin.
    • It provides a steady and consistent dose of hormones.
  • 3. No Interruption During Sex:
    • Unlike some other methods, such as inserting a diaphragm or condom during sex, the patch does not interrupt sexual activity.
    • You can enjoy intimacy without worrying about contraceptive logistics.
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  • 4. Not Affected by Sickness or Diarrhoea:
    • The patch remains effective even if you experience illness, vomiting, or diarrhoea.
    • This is an advantage over some oral contraceptive pills that may be affected by these conditions.
  • 5. High Effectiveness:
    • When used correctly, the contraceptive patch is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
    • If used consistently and correctly, only 9 out of 100 women using the patch will get pregnant.

Sometimes, you may have to try different ones so, consult a healthcare provider to discuss your specific needs and determine if the contraceptive patch is suitable for you.

Applying Contraceptive Patch

Applying the contraceptive patch is straightforward. Follow these steps:

  • 1. Choose a Suitable Location:
    • Select an area of clean, dry, and hairless skin where the patch won’t easily rub off or get dislodged.
    • Avoid applying the patch to your breasts.
  • 2. Application:
    • Peel Back the Patch: Remove the patch from its protective packaging.
    • Apply to Skin: Place the patch on the chosen area of skin.
    • Press Firmly: Press down gently to ensure it adheres well.
  • 3. Wear for 7 Days:
    • Keep the patch on for 7 days.
    • During this time, the patch will release hormones to prevent pregnancy.
  • 4. Change-Day:
    • After 7 days, remove the patch.
    • Replace it with a new patch in a different place on your body.
    • You can change the patch at any time during the day.
  • 5. Patch-Free Week:
    • After three weeks of continuous patch use, take a 7-day break from the patch.
    • During this patch-free week, you may experience bleeding (similar to a period).

Read and follow the instructions provided with your specific contraceptive patch brand. Ask MHN for advice about your concerns or questions or speak to your GP or sexual health advisor. Take care!

Side Effects Hormonal Contraception

When dealing with hormonal contraception side effects, consider the following strategies:

  • 1. Patience and Adjustment:
    • Give It Time: Most side effects improve within approximately 3 months of starting hormonal contraception.
    • Monitor Changes: Keep track of how you feel and any symptoms you experience.
  • 2. Consult a Healthcare Provider:
    • Contact Your GP or Sexual Health Clinic: If side effects are bothersome, reach out to the healthcare provider who prescribed your contraception.
    • Discuss Alternatives: A different type of contraception may suit you better.
  • 3. Address Common Side Effects:
    • Headaches: Stay hydrated and manage stress.
    • Nausea: Take your pill with food or before bedtime.
    • Mood Swings: Practice stress reduction techniques.
    • Weight Gain: Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
    • Sore Breasts: Wear a supportive bra.
    • Acne: Follow a skincare routine.
  • 4. Changes to Menstrual Cycle:
    • Irregular Bleeding: Be patient; it often settles.
    • Changes in Periods: Track your cycle and discuss any concerns with your provider.
  • 5. Risk Awareness:
    • Blood Clot Risk: While the risk is low, be aware of symptoms (e.g., leg swelling, chest pain).
    • Breast Cancer Risk: Understand the small increase in risk.

Remember that each person’s experience with hormonal contraception can vary. If you have specific concerns or need personalised advice, consult a healthcare professional. Take care!

Benefits of Contraceptive Patch

Certainly! When dealing with hormonal contraception side effects, consider the following strategies:

  • 1. Patience and Adjustment:
    • Give It Time: Most side effects improve within approximately 3 months of starting hormonal contraception.
    • Monitor Changes: Keep track of how you feel and any symptoms you experience.
  • 2. Consult a Healthcare Provider:
    • Contact Your GP or Sexual Health Clinic: If side effects are bothersome, reach out to the healthcare provider who prescribed your contraception.
    • Discuss Alternatives: A different type of contraception may suit you better.
  • 3. Address Common Side Effects:
    • Headaches: Stay hydrated and manage stress.
    • Nausea: Take your pill with food or before bedtime.
    • Mood Swings: Practice stress reduction techniques.
    • Weight Gain: Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
    • Sore Breasts: Wear a supportive bra.
    • Acne: Follow a skincare routine.
  • 4. Changes to Menstrual Cycle:
    • Irregular Bleeding: Be patient; it often settles.
    • Changes in Periods: Track your cycle and discuss any concerns with your provider.
  • 5. Risk Awareness:
    • Blood Clot Risk: While the risk is low, be aware of symptoms (e.g., leg swelling, chest pain).
    • Breast Cancer Risk: Understand the small increase in risk.

Everyone responds differently to hormonal contraception. Don’t ignore your concerns or minimise them, get expert advice here or, consult a healthcare professional. Take care!

Intrauterine devices (IUDs)

IUDs also known as copper coils or hormonal coils, are effective forms of contraception. Here are the key points:

  • 1. What Is an IUD?
    • An IUD is a small, T-shaped device that a doctor or nurse places inside your womb (uterus).
    • It works by preventing pregnancy through different mechanisms, depending on the type:
      • Copper IUD: Releases copper, which is toxic to sperm and prevents fertilization.
      • Hormonal IUD (IUS): Releases progestogen hormone, thickening cervical mucus, inhibiting ovulation, and thinning the uterine lining.
  • 2. Effectiveness:
    • IUDs are over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
    • They work as soon as they’re inserted and last for several years (5 to 10 years, depending on the type).
  • 3. Advantages:
    • Long-Term Contraception: No need to remember daily pills or other methods.
    • No Interruption During Sex: Once inserted, it doesn’t interfere with sexual activity.
    • Safe While Breastfeeding: You can use an IUD while breastfeeding.
    • Quick Return to Fertility: Fertility returns immediately after removal.
  • 4. Side Effects and Risks:
    • Irregular Bleeding: Some people experience spotting or changes in their periods.
    • High Blood Pressure: A rare risk associated with hormonal IUDs.
    • Blood Clot Risk: Very low risk.
    • Breast Cancer Risk: Slightly increased risk (returns to normal after removal).

Note: IUDs are reversible you can have them removed at any time. Ask our experts or your healthcare advisor if an IUD is best for you based on your health, preferences, and lifestyle.

IUD Side Effects

When using an intrauterine device (IUD), there are potential side effects to be aware of. Here’s what you need to know:

  • 1. Common Side Effects:
    • Period-Like Pain: After getting an IUD fitted, you might experience mild period-like pain for a few days.
    • Bleeding Between Periods: Some individuals may have bleeding between their periods.
    • Changes in Menstrual Flow: Your periods may become heavier, longer, or more painful, but this often improves after a few months.
    • Thrush Risk: There is a small chance of getting recurrent thrush; consult your GP if this occurs.
  • 2. Rare Risks:
    • Pelvic Infections: These usually occur within 3 weeks of having an IUD fitted.
    • IUD Movement or Expulsion: This risk is usually within 3 months after insertion.
    • Womb Damage: Rarely, the IUD can cause damage to the womb.
    • Ectopic Pregnancy: Although very rare, it’s essential to be aware of this risk.
    • Infection and Perforation: Seek urgent medical attention if you experience symptoms like pain, abnormal discharge, or high temperature.
    • Threads Check: If you cannot feel the IUD threads, consult a doctor or nurse to ensure proper protection against pregnancy.

Remember that IUDs are highly effective and safe, but it’s essential to monitor any changes and seek professional advice if needed. Still, MHN advises you to check out any queries.

...

IUD Benefits

The intrauterine device (IUD), also known as the copper coil or hormonal coil, offers several benefits for individuals seeking effective contraception:

  • 1. High Effectiveness:
    • An IUD is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
    • It works as soon as it’s inserted and lasts for 5 or 10 years, depending on the type.
  • 2. Ease of Use:
    • Once an IUD is fitted, it works straight away.
    • No need to remember daily pills or other methods.
  • 3. No Interruption During Sex:
    • Unlike some other methods, such as inserting a diaphragm or condom during sex, the IUD does not interrupt sexual activity.
    • You can enjoy intimacy without worrying about contraceptive logistics.
  • 4. Safe While Breastfeeding:

    You can use an IUD while breastfeeding.

  • 5. Quick Return to Fertility:

    After an IUD is removed, your fertility will return to previous levels straight away.

Remember to consult a healthcare provider to discuss whether an IUD is suitable for you based on your health, preferences, and lifestyle.

...

Contraceptive injections

They are a reliable method of birth control. Here’s what you need to know:

  • 1. Types of Contraceptive Injections:
    • Depo-Provera: This is the most common type used in the UK. It contains a synthetic form of progesterone (progestogen).
    • Sayana Press: It’s becoming increasingly popular because it can be self-injected. It also contains progestogen.
    • Noristerat: Unlike the other two, Noristerat only lasts for eight weeks.
  • 2. Effectiveness:
    • Contraceptive injections are more than 99% effective if used correctly.
    • If you get your injection late, its effectiveness decreases.
  • 3. Duration:
    • The injection lasts for 8 to 13 weeks, depending on the type.
    • You’ll need to get a new injection when the effect wears off.
  • 4. How It Works:
    • The injection releases hormones into your bloodstream.
    • It prevents pregnancy by:
      • Inhibiting ovulation (release of eggs).
      • Thickening cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg.
      • Thinning the lining of the womb, making it less receptive to a fertilized egg.
  • 5. Where to Get It:

    You can obtain contraceptive injections at:

    • General Practices: With a GP or practice nurse.
    • Sexual Health Clinics.
    • Brook Advisory Centres.
...

Contraceptive injections Side Effects

Contraceptive injections are a reliable method of birth control, but they can have potential side effects. Here’s what you need to know:

  • 1. Common Side Effects:
    • Headaches: Some individuals may experience headaches.
    • Mood Swings: Mood changes can occur.
    • Breast Tenderness: Soreness or enlargement of the breasts.
    • Irregular Bleeding: You might experience bleeding between periods.
    • Weight Changes: Some people may put on weight.
    • Acne: Skin changes, including acne, are possible.
  • 2. Bone Health:
    • Using the contraceptive injection for more than 1 year can weaken your bones.
    • However, your bones are likely to return to normal after you stop having the injections.
  • 3. Cancer Risk:
    • The contraceptive injection can slightly increase your risk of getting:
      • Breast cancer.
      • Cervical cancer.
    • The risk is very small and is likely to decrease after you stop using the injection.

Remember that side effects vary from person to person. If you have concerns, speak to a doctor or nurse, MHN Advisor or your healthcare provider to discuss whether contraceptive injections are suitable for you based on your health and preferences.

Advantages of Contraceptive Injection

Contraceptive injections offer several advantages for individuals seeking effective birth control:

  • 1. High Effectiveness:
    • Contraceptive injections are over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
    • They work as soon as they’re administered and last for 8 to 13 weeks, depending on the type.
  • 2. Ease of Use:
    • Once the injection is given, it works immediately.
    • No need to remember daily pills or other methods.
  • 3. No Interruption During Sex:
    • Unlike some other methods, such as inserting a diaphragm or condom during sex, the injection does not interrupt sexual activity.
    • You can enjoy intimacy without worrying about contraceptive logistics.
  • 4. Safe While Breastfeeding:

    You can use contraceptive injections while breastfeeding.

  • 5. Quick Return to Fertility:

    After stopping the injections, your fertility will return to previous levels promptly.

Speak to a healthcare advisor, or provider to discuss whether contraceptive injections are suitable for you based on your health and preferences.

Family Planning (FP)

FP involves making informed choices about contraception and reproductive health. Here are some key points:

  • 1. Contraception Options:

    There are various methods available for preventing pregnancy:

    • Condoms: Barrier method that prevents sperm from reaching the egg.
    • Oral Contraceptives (Birth Control Pills): Hormonal pills that inhibit ovulation.
    • Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): Small devices placed in the womb to prevent pregnancy.
    • Contraceptive Injections: Administered every 8 to 13 weeks.
    • Implants: Small rods inserted under the skin.
    • Sterilization: Permanent methods like vasectomy (male) or tubal ligation (female).
  • 2. Where to Get Contraception:

    You can obtain contraception from:

    • Sexual health clinics (also called family planning or contraception clinics).
    • Some GP surgeries.
    • Young people’s services (call the national sexual health helpline on 0300 123 7123 for more information).
  • 3. Benefits of Family Planning:
    • Empowerment: Allows individuals and couples to plan their families according to their preferences.
    • Health Protection: Prevents unintended pregnancies and reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
    • Improved Well-Being: Supports physical, emotional, and financial well-being.

Note: family planning choice is personal, and it’s essential to find a method that suits your needs and lifestyle. Ask advisors to explore your options and make informed decisions.

...

Signposting Resources and support for young parents:

  • 1. Teenage Mothers and Young Fathers: Support Framework:
    • This framework helps local healthcare commissioners and service providers review support arrangements for young parents in their area.
    • It includes a self-assessment tool to review local services, identify gaps, and assess the impact of support for young parents.
    • Consider reading the framework document for children.
  • 2. Family Rights Group:
    • Provides advice and support for young parents navigating children’s services, child protection conferences, and more.
    • Visit the Young Parents Advice page for information.
  • 3. Childcare and Support Information for Young Parents in the UK:
    • Offers information on childcare options and support available to young parents studying, working, or unemployed.
    • Juggling responsibilities can be challenging, especially for young parents balancing education, work, and childcare.
  • 4. Little Lullaby:
    • The Lullaby Trust’s project is dedicated to young parents.
    • Aims to prevent unexpected deaths of babies and toddlers born to young parents.
    • Provides information, support, and resources through pregnancy, birth, and beyond.

Remember that seeking support and connecting with relevant organizations can make the journey of young parenthood more manageable. If you have specific needs or questions, consider reaching out to local services or online resources.

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