Contraception
Here at Racecourse Village Medical Centre we provide advice, guidance, and testing that is tailored to your health conditions and lifestyle to ensure you’re using the right contraception for you.
CONTRACEPTIVE PILL
The contraceptive pill, known as 'the pill', is most commonly available in two different forms.
The combined pill works to stop the ovaries releasing an egg each month, and the progestogen-only pill (also known as the 'mini pill') works to change the mucus at the entrance of the womb (uterus) so that sperm cannot pass through and fertilise the egg.
The contraceptive pill is a prescription only medicine and must be taken at the same time every day, or as close to it as possible.
CONTRACEPTIVE INJECTIONS
The contraceptive injection, also known as 'Depo', is a hormonal injection which is given every twelve (12) to fourteen (14) weeks. This method stops ovulation and causes the fluid at the opening of the uterus to thicken, preventing sperm from passing through and fertilising the egg.
This contraception method may cause changes to periods, or may stop them altogether.
CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANTS
A contraceptive implant (such as Implanon) is a small, thin, flexible rod which is inserted just under the skin on the inside of the arm. Contraceptive implants contain a hormone which helps to prevent pregnancy by stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg each month. Implants normally last up to three (3) years and can easily be removed. It is also a safe option when breastfeeding.
CONTRACEPTIVE INTRAUTERINE DEVICES (IUDS)
An IUD is a small contraceptive device which is placed into the uterus. There are hormone-releasing IUDs which can last up to five (5) years, and copper IUDs which can last between five (5) to ten (10) years.
Talk to your doctor about your contraceptive options to help you decide which device would be most suitable for you. Both IUD types are considered safe when breastfeeding and are not affected by other medications.