Family planning counselling

Family planning refers to the different methods of contraception you could use to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Dr Mading-Ongadile can advise you on a birth control method that best suits you.

Which birth control method is best for me?

While the best method of birth control is one that can be used consistently without causing any inconvenience or adverse side effects, you should still consider the following before choosing a specific birth control method:

  • Efficacy (how well it works to prevent pregnancy)
  • Convenience
  • How long it can be used for
  • Whether and how it affects your period
  • Type and frequency of side effects
  • Affordability
  • Privacy concerns
  • Whether or not it also protects against sexually transmitted diseases

What are some of the different methods of contraception?

The Pill

This is the most common form of birth control. It is an oral contraceptive strategically designed around your menstrual cycle. The pill is to be taken daily and thus requires high discipline and responsibility. If you miss one day, you will increase your chances of having an unplanned pregnancy.

Contraceptive implant

A tiny, rod-like medical device is planted under your arm and slowly releases hormones that help prevent you from getting pregnant. The most significant advantage of the implant is that it lasts for 3 years. Then, when you are ready to conceive, your doctor can easily remove it from the arm.

Contraceptive injection

This hormonal shot is administered by a medical professional every 2 to 3 months. It contains the hormone progesterone, which stops your body from releasing eggs and thickens the mucus at the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to pass the cervix.

The patch

This is a small stick-on patch that slowly releases hormones through the skin. The hormones released are synthetic estrogen and progestin. In addition, it thickens mucus produced in the cervix. The patch must be replaced weekly.

Intra-Uterine Device (IUD)

This is a long-term birth control solution lasting between 3 and 7 years. IUDs can also help with painful or heavy periods and come in different brands. They consist of a T-shaped piece of plastic with a band containing the hormone progestin.

Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD)

If you have not had a good experience with hormonal birth control or are just uncomfortable with synthetic hormones, this is a non-hormonal contraceptive option. Also known as the intrauterine coil, it is an IUD that contains copper. It also doubles as an emergency contraceptive that can be used within the first five days of unprotected sex.

Vaginal ring

A very affordable birth control method device is placed inside your vagina. Like most other birth control options, it contains hormones that stop your ovaries from releasing an egg each month. It lasts between three to four weeks, so it is helpful if you tend to forget to take a pill. However, it is unsuitable for women over 35 years who smoke.