Contraception and emergency contraception for women

Professionally updated: June 24, 2025

Contraception refers to methods that women and men can use to prevent pregnancy. There are various forms of contraception, both hormonal and non-hormonal, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Emergency contraception is a solution to prevent pregnancy if you have had unprotected intercourse or if your usual method of contraception fails. This page will give you an in-depth understanding of the different methods of contraception, so you can make the best decision for your body and your health.

Jakob Fraes

Specialist in General Medicine, Ph.D.

Read more about Contraception and emergency contraception for women. Everything you should know.

Consultation with a doctor

Making the decision about the right method of contraception is not always straightforward. Therefore, it is crucial to have an open and honest dialogue with your doctor. By sharing details about your health history, daily routines, future plans, and any concerns, a doctor can get a complete picture of what will work best for you.

It is important not only to consider the effectiveness of a method of prevention, but also how it fits into your daily routine, whether it has side effects you want to avoid, and how it may affect your future fertility. For example, if you are someone who has difficulty remembering to take pills daily, a long-acting method such as an IUD or implant may be more appropriate.

Therefore, it is so important to take the time for a thorough conversation and ask all the questions you may have.

Hormonal and non-hormonal contraception

Hormonal contraception

Hormonal contraception includes methods such as birth control pills, patches, vaginal rings, and hormonal IUDs. These methods work by releasing hormones that prevent ovulation and thus pregnancy. They are very effective when used correctly but can have side effects such as mood swings, weight gain, and decreased libido.

Non-hormonal contraception

Non-hormonal contraception includes methods such as copper IUDs, condoms, and diaphragms. These methods do not contain hormones and primarily work by preventing sperm from reaching an egg. They can be a good choice for women who want to avoid hormonal side effects.

Emergency contraception

Emergency contraception is a backup method for preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex. There are two types: emergency contraceptive pills and copper IUDs. The pills should be taken as soon as possible after intercourse, while the copper IUD can be inserted up to five days later.

Side effects and risks:

As with all medical treatments, there are risks and side effects associated with contraception. It is important to consult a doctor to find out which method is best for you and to understand the potential side effects.

Personal decision

The choice of contraception is a personal decision that should be made with careful consideration and advice from a doctor. Whichever method you choose, it's important to use it correctly to ensure maximum protection against pregnancy.

After reading this page, we hope you feel more informed and ready to book an appointment with your doctor to discuss your contraception options.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hormonal and non-hormonal contraception?

Hormonal contraception contains synthetic hormones that prevent ovulation, while non-hormonal contraception works by blocking or killing sperm without the use of hormones.

How effective is emergency contraception?

Emergency contraceptive pills are most effective if taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex but can be taken up to 72 hours later. A copper IUD can be inserted up to five days later and is over 99% effective.

Is there an age limit for using contraception?

No, there is no age limit for using contraception. But it is always a good idea to consult a doctor to find the most suitable method for your age group.