Contraception

Contraception (also referred to as birth control) refers to the methods used by men and women to protect themselves against pregnancy. There are multiple methods of contraception available to use, so that you can find the one that's perfect for you and your particular set of needs. Often it's best to try different methods until you find the one you like the most.

Hormonal contraception is one of the most reliable and convenient ways to prevent pregnancy, with the majority of variants being more than 99% effective^[1] if used correctly. By simply taking a daily pill, patch or using a contraceptive ring you are provided with the protection, without it inhibiting sexual spontaneity. The most widely used hormonal contraceptives are taken for 21 days followed by a seven-day break, which is helpful in regulating your hormonal cycle.

In addition to their ability to provide protection against conception, hormonal contraceptives may also be able to treat acne, endometriosis, painful or heavy periods and premenstrual syndrome.

Although hormonal contraceptives are taken / used in different ways, they essentially work in the same way to prevent pregnancy. They work by:

1. Stopping sperm from reaching an egg
2. Sterilising the reproductive function
3. Preventing ovulation (the release of eggs)
4. Blocking eggs from reaching the uterus

To be more specific, the majority of hormonal contraceptives have both progestogen and oestrogen. These are synthetic versions of hormones that normally regulate the female cycle, but when they are used in an artificial form, which is the case with some contraceptives, they can stop ovulation.

Ovulation is the process during which an egg is released from the ovaries and passed down the fallopian tubes to the womb. However, apart from influencing ovulation, hormonal contraception also changes cervical mucous to make it difficult for sperm to pass to the womb to fertilise an egg, while also altering the womb lining to make it difficult for an egg to grow.^[2]

Each type of contraceptive is taken / used in a different. The below table gives a brief overview of usage instructions for the various types of contraceptive methods.

Side effects can be a concern when it comes to choosing a hormonal contraceptive. Many women tend to experience mild side effects to start off with, but they pass very quickly once your body has adjusted to the hormones. The most common side effects can potentially include nausea, mood changes, breast tenderness, headaches, spotting and minor weight gain. The more suitable a contraceptive is for you, the fewer side effects you will experience. This is why you may have to try more than one contraceptive before you find the perfect one.

Before you commit to ordering a contraceptive online, there are a number of precautions that you should consider. Certain health problems can restrict which hormonal contraceptives you can use. Such health concerns can include:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Immobility
• A smoking addiction
• High cholesterol
• Phlebitis
• Being overweight
• Having a family history of thrombosis

The main types of hormonal contraception available are

Monophasic pills

This is the most common type of oral hormonal contraception available. They are taken daily for 21 days followed by seven pill-free days. Cilest and Microgynon both fall under this category.

Phasic pills

Phasic pills have two or three sections of different coloured pills in a strip. Each different coloured pill contains a different concentration of hormones and should be taken in the correct order for 21 or 28 days. Binovum and Logynon are phasic oral contraceptives.

Every Day (ED) pills

These contain 28 pills: 21 active and seven inactive. The seven inactive pills are designed to assist you in creating a routine for taking your contraceptive. You will take one pill per day continuously without a break. It's important to remember to take these pills in the correct order. Examples are Logynon ED and Microgynon ED.

Progestogen-only pills (mini-pills)

The mini-pill is a low dose variation of the traditional pill, which contains only one hormone. It should cause fewer side effects but may be slightly less effective. It is often recommended for older women, smokers, diabetics and women who are breastfeeding.

Patches and rings

Contraceptive patches and rings are a newer form of hormonal contraception than the pill or mini-pill, but are just as effective in providing you with protection against pregnancy. Containing both synthetic progestogen and oestrogen, the patch and ring only need to be used once a month, for three weeks at a time and with a one-week break, to provide you with effective protection.

Contraception is used by women looking to successfully prevent pregnancy. We have multiple contraceptive options for you to buy here at OnlineClinic to suit your particular requirements. These contraception options include emergency contraceptives, patches and rings, mini-pills, monophasic pills, phasic pills and every day pills. These highly effective contraceptives are available to buy in a variety of dosages in the form of tablets, patches and rings. You can order the contraceptive you require at OnlineClinic after completing a simple and confidential online consultation. This can be done for free with no obligation. To learn more about these treatments, visit their respective product pages.