The different contraceptive methods: a guide to choosing the one that's right for you

As a physician and medical director of French origin, having completed my schooling and practiced in France before settling in Quebec. Today, we're going to explore the different contraceptive options available, to help you choose the one that best suits your needs. We'll also highlight the differences between estrogen-progestin and progestin-only hormonal contraceptives.

Hormonal contraception

1.estrogen-progestin contraceptives

-Estrogen-progestin contraceptive pill:

- Examples: Alesse, Yaz, Nextstellis etc...

- This pill contains two hormones, estrogen and progestin, which work together to prevent ovulation. It also regulates the menstrual cycle and can reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It must be taken daily. In general, there is a period of 4 to 7 days when the placebo pills are taken, during which no hormones are ingested. This pause causes withdrawal bleeding, which is the body's reaction to the sudden drop in hormone levels.

-Contraceptive Estrogen Patch:

- Examples: Evra

- This patch sticks to the skin and releases estrogen and progestin hormones to prevent ovulation. It must be replaced every week for three weeks, followed by a one-week break without the patch. This seven-day break causes withdrawal bleeding similar to that of the pill.

-Estrogen-progestin vaginal ring:

- Examples: NuvaRing

- A flexible ring inserted into the vagina that releases estrogen and progestin hormones over a three-week period. It is removed for a one-week break during menstruation, which causes withdrawal bleeding.

2.progestin-only contraceptives

-Progestin-only contraceptive pill:

- Examples: Slynd, Jencycla

- Containing only progestin, this pill is often prescribed to women who cannot take estrogen. It thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, thus preventing ovulation. It must be taken daily, but at regular times.

-Contraceptive Progestin Implant:

- Examples: Nexplanon

- A small rod inserted under the skin of the arm that releases a progestin over a three-year period, preventing ovulation and modifying cervical mucus to prevent pregnancy.

-Injection Contraceptive Progestogen:

- Examples: Depo-Provera

- A progestin injection that provides contraceptive protection for three months.

-Hormonal (Progestin) Intra-Uterine Device (IUD):

- Examples: Mirena, Kyleena

- This device releases a progestin to prevent pregnancy. It acts primarily by thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, and by thinning the lining of the uterus. It can also reduce the risk of ovulation. It generally lasts 3 to 5 years.

Contraception Barrier

1The male and female condom: Condoms are the only contraceptive methods that also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

2The Diaphragm and Cervical Cap: These devices are placed inside the vagina before intercourse to cover the cervix and prevent the passage of sperm.

Intra-Uterine Contraception

1The copper intrauterine device (IUD):

- Examples: Paragard, Mona Lisa, Nova T, TCu 380A

- A small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional. It prevents fertilization and can last between 5 and 10 years.

Emergency Contraception

1The Morning-after Pill or Plan B: Taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, this pill helps prevent an unwanted pregnancy. The earlier you take it, the more effective it is. You can obtain the morning-after pill or Plan B directly from a pharmacy, without a prescription.

2The Copper IUD as Emergency Contraception: Can be inserted up to five days after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy.

Other methods

1.the Fixed Days Method: Based on tracking one's menstrual cycle to avoid the most fertile days. However, this method is risky, especially for women with irregular cycles, as it is difficult to accurately predict fertile days.

2Sterilization: A permanent method of contraception, which can be performed on men (vasectomy) or women (tubal ligation).

Conclusion

It's important to choose the method of contraception that best suits your lifestyle and medical needs. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your contraceptive options, don't hesitate to consult us at AlloDocteur.ca. We offer in-home consultations in Montreal starting at $279, depending on the complexity and location of the consultation. You can book an appointment directly on our website.

Take care of yourself and your reproductive health with the help of qualified professionals.

For more information and to schedule a consultation, visit AlloDocteur.ca.