Frequently Asked Questions About Contraceptive Methods

There is no single ideal method for all women, but rather the most suitable option for each individual situation.

The choice depends on age, overall health, lifestyle habits, and future reproductive plans.

During the counselling visit, these factors are reviewed to recommend the safest and most effective option.

No. There are different types of hormonal contraception with very different formulations and doses.

Some work systemically, and others locally, such as the hormonal IUD.

This makes it possible to tailor the method to minimize potential side effects and ensure the best tolerance.

Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) are the most convenient and effective option.

Key examples include the IUD (hormonal or copper) and the subdermal implant, which provide protection for years without daily reminders.

No. Hormonal contraceptives do not reduce long-term fertility.

Once you stop using them, your menstrual cycle typically normalises quickly and your ability to conceive returns to its previous level.

The only contraceptive method that protects against STIs is the condom (male or female).

Other methods (IUD, implant, pill, ring, etc.) are very effective at preventing pregnancy, but do not protect against infections such as HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or syphilis.

That’s why, in some situations, a condom combined with another contraceptive method is recommended.

Yes. During breastfeeding, oestrogen-free methods are recommended, as oestrogen can interfere with milk production.

Safe options include the progestogen-only pill, the contraceptive implant, the IUD (hormonal or copper), and barrier methods.

Your doctor will assess which is most suitable based on your situation and the time since delivery.

In smokers over 35 and in women with migraine with aura, combined oestrogen-containing contraceptives are not recommended due to a higher cardiovascular risk.

Recommended alternatives are progestogen-only methods (progestogen-only pill, implant, hormonal IUD) or the copper IUD.

The choice should be personalised based on each patient’s medical history.

All are long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC), but there are differences:

– Copper IUD: contains no hormones and works by altering the uterine environment.

– Hormonal IUD: releases a low dose of progestogen locally.

– Implant: releases progestogen continuously from the arm, working systemically.

All are over 99% effective, and the choice depends on hormone tolerance and personal preference.

There are two effective emergency contraception options: the morning-after pill, which should be taken as soon as possible, and the copper IUD, which can be inserted up to 5 days after intercourse.

The IUD is even more effective for preventing pregnancy in these situations.

Insertion can cause a brief, intense cramp, similar to a heavy period cramp, lasting only a few seconds.

The procedure is quick and is done with techniques that minimise discomfort.

It is recommended to take a pain reliever before the appointment for greater comfort.

The copper IUD contains no hormones and keeps natural menstrual cycles, although it may increase bleeding and period pain during the first months.

The hormonal IUD releases a low dose of progestogen, which reduces menstrual bleeding and, in many cases, makes periods stop altogether—an advantage for many women.

The IUD sits inside the uterus and does not interfere with daily life.

Women do not feel it during normal activities or during sex.

The strings in the vagina are very thin and, if they cause discomfort, they can be adjusted in the clinic.

It’s unlikely. The hormonal IUD releases a very small amount of hormones that act almost exclusively locally.

For this reason, systemic side effects such as weight gain or mood changes are very uncommon.

Duration depends on the type of IUD:

– Copper IUD: between 5 and 10 years, depending on the model.
– Hormonal IUD: between 3 and 5 years, depending on the dose and brand.

Once it reaches the end of its effective lifespan, it must be removed or replaced in the clinic.

Yes, they can be used without any problem.

The IUD is inside the uterus and does not interfere with tampons or menstrual cups, which sit in the vagina.

It is important, however, to use them correctly so you don’t accidentally pull on the IUD strings.

The risk of expulsion is low, under 5%, and usually occurs during the first months after insertion.

That’s why a follow-up visit with ultrasound is recommended after the first period to confirm it is correctly positioned.

No. Local anaesthetic is applied to the skin, making the procedure painless.

Insertion takes just a few minutes using a special applicator.

No. Local anaesthetic is applied to the skin, which makes the procedure painless.

Insertion is done in just a few minutes using a special applicator.

It isn’t noticeable at a glance.

You may feel it under the skin by touch, but it isn’t uncomfortable and does not interfere with daily life, sports, or sleep.

Yes. Many women experience less bleeding, irregular periods, or no periods.

This effect is safe, does not affect health, and does not compromise future fertility.

Removal is a simple procedure.

Local anaesthetic is applied and a small incision of just a few millimetres is made to remove it.

The process takes a few minutes and does not usually cause significant discomfort.

The implant is well tolerated by most women.

The most common side effects are changes in menstrual bleeding patterns (lighter periods, irregular periods, or no periods).

Headache, acne, mood changes, or breast tenderness may also occur, although less frequently.

These effects are usually mild and tend to stabilise over time.

Yes. The implant can be removed at any time. Once it is removed, fertility returns quickly, usually by the next menstrual cycle.