Methods of contraception

Barrier methods

This page lists methods of contraception that can help prevent a pregnancy. If you are looking for information about terminating a pregnancy, then look have a look here: abortion.  

Barrier methods of contraception prevent sperm cells from reaching the egg cell. These forms of contraception form a physical barrier:

• condom;
• female condom;
• diaphragm.

Hormonal methods

The hormones prevent sperm cells from fertilising an egg cell:

• they prevent ovulation.
• they make it more difficult for sperm cells to enter the uterus and reach the egg cell.

The hormones also make sure that an egg cell cannot be implanted:

• contraceptive pill;
• vaginal ring;
• contraceptive patch;
• hormonal IUD;
• contraceptive implant;
• contraceptive injection.

Methods inserted in the uterus by a doctor

A doctor puts these methods of contraception inside the woman’s uterus:

• hormonal IUD;
• copper IUD.

Natural family planning

Natural family planning means that no methods of contraception are used. There are various methods of natural family planning:

• Not having sexual intercourse.
• Not having sexual intercourse when a woman is in her fertile period.
• Withdrawing the penis before the man ejaculates.
• Breast-feeding.

These methods are difficult to use correctly. This means that they are less reliable. It is difficult to predict the days on which a woman is most fertile. Breast-feeding only protects from a pregnancy under certain conditions. Withdrawing the penis before the man ejaculates can lead to sperm cells dripping from the penis before ejaculation and thus to a possible pregnancy.

Permanent contraception

Sterilisation is permanent contraception. A doctor carries out a small operation on a man or a woman. Sterilisation prevents sperm cells from reaching the egg cell.

Abortion is not a method of contraception. You have an abortion when you are already pregnant and choose to terminate your pregnancy.