Contraception and emergency contraception for women

Professionally updated: May 2, 2024

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

Jakob Fraes

Specialist in General Medicine, PhD

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

Conversation with a doctor

Deciding on the right contraceptive method isn't always straightforward. That's why it's crucial to have an open and honest dialog 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's not only important to consider the effectiveness of a contraceptive method, 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're someone who has difficulty remembering to take pills daily, a long-term method like an IUD or implant may be more appropriate.

That's why it's so important to take the time to have a thorough conversation and ask any questions you may have.

Hormonal and non-hormonal contraception

Hormonal contraception

Hormonal contraception includes methods such as the contraceptive pill, patch, vaginal ring and hormonal IUD. These methods work by releasing hormones that prevent ovulation and therefore 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 the copper IUD, condoms and diaphragms. These methods do not contain hormones and work primarily 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 intercourse. There are two types: emergency contraceptive pills and the copper IUD. 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's important to consult a doctor to find out which method is best for you and 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 make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your contraceptive 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 intercourse, but can be taken up to 72 hours after. The copper IUD can be inserted up to five days after and is over 99% effective.

Is there an age limit for using contraception?

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