Alternatives to the contraceptive pill

There are two main types of contraception, hormonal and non-hormonal.

Hormonal contraception prevents pregnancy by changing the way your natural hormones work. There are two main types:

• combined contraceptives, containing synthetic versions of oestrogen and progesterone (e.g. the combined pill)
• progesterone-only contraceptives (e.g the mini pill)

Non-hormonal contraceptives include things like condoms as well as tracking your cycle and avoiding intercourse when you’re most fertile. These methods don’t have any impact on your natural hormones but can be less reliable.

Hormonal contraceptives

Several different types of birth control contain hormones, such as:

• the combined pill
• the mini pill
• the contraceptive patch
• the contraceptive ring

There are also hormonal contraceptives known as LARCs (long-acting reversible contraceptives). These include:

• the intrauterine system (IUS)
• the contraceptive injection
• the contraceptive implant

LARCs protect you for longer periods compared to the pill, patch or ring. They can offer protection for multiple months or years.

Non-hormonal contraceptives

Methods of non-hormonal birth control include:

• condoms - both external (male) and internal (female)
• cervical caps
• diaphragms
• spermicides (cream, gel or foam)

These are sometimes referred to as barrier methods because they create a barrier between the semen and the cervix. This means that sperm cannot enter the woman’s uterus.

Another form of non-hormonal contraception involves tracking your menstrual cycle. By avoiding intercourse on days that you’re ovulating, you can naturally prevent pregnancy without using barrier methods.

While all types of contraceptive pills are 99.9% effective when used correctly, they can be easy to forget - which can make your sex life more stressful than it needs to be.

For some women, an alternative to the pill may be a good idea if:

• you find it stressful having to remember to bring your medication on overnight trips or holidays
• you don’t want to take pills every day, or you find it difficult to take them correctly
• taking oral tablets affects your stomach
• you’ve been on the pill for a while and want to try a different form of contraception
• you’re planning to stay on birth control long-term and want to commit to a longer-lasting form of contraception

Luckily, there are many available alternatives to choose from if you don’t want to be on the pill.

The following list will explain all of the existing hormonal contraception alternatives to the pill.

The ring

The contraceptive ring, commonly known under the brand name NuvaRing, is inserted into the vagina once every 3 weeks.

After 3 weeks it is removed for one further week. This allows for a withdrawal bleed.

It contains synthetic (man-made) versions of oestrogen and progesterone. Because of this, it prevents pregnancy in the same way as the combined pill. It also offers the same benefits (a lighter period, less cramps, a regular cycle).

When used correctly, the contraceptive ring is 99.7% effective at preventing pregnancy.

The patch

The contraceptive patch (also known as the Evra patch) also works in the same way as the combined pill. However, instead of taking the hormones orally, your body absorbs them through a patch.

The patch is placed onto clean, dry skin at the start of each week. You do this for 3 consecutive weeks before wearing no patch for one more week. During this time you’ll have a withdrawal period.

Common places to apply the patch include:

• your upper torso
• the outside of your upper arm
• your tummy
• your bottom

The injection

Another option for hormonal contraception is a type of injection. You can receive this injection at a clinic or purchase a self-injection called Sayana Press.

The injection provides 13 weeks of protection against pregnancy. It works by stopping ovulation (the part of your cycle where your ovaries release an egg) and contains a synthetic version of progesterone.

When you stop taking the injection, it can take some time before your fertility returns to normal. Keep this in mind if you are planning on having children in the near future.

The implant

The implant is a small plastic rod (about 4 cm) that’s inserted into your upper arm, just beneath the skin. It slowly releases hormones into your body without a need for oral pills.

Unlike the ring and patch, the implant only releases progesterone. It works to prevent pregnancy in the same way as the mini pill.

Once inserted, the implant can work effectively for up to 3 years. After this time has passed, it will need to be removed and replaced with a new one (if desired).

The intrauterine system (IUS)

The IUS (intrauterine system) is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus. It works by preventing sperm from reaching an egg and by releasing progesterone (which causes changes to the cervical mucus).

You can also opt for the copper intrauterine device (IUD) which doesn’t release any hormones.

Both the IUD and IUS can stay in your body for up to 5 years. They are very effective forms of long-term contraception.

To prevent pregnancy, you can also rely on the following non-hormonal options:

• barrier methods (male and female condoms)
• tracking your cycle and avoiding intercourse during fertile periods

Please note that these forms of contraception can be less reliable. However, barrier methods should always be used with new partners as they are the only way of preventing the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

The following table outlines all available methods of contraception, along with a description and their duration of use.

Yes, you can purchase the contraceptive ring or patch online here at euroClinix.

Simply answer our online questionnaire to complete your consultation. This will then be reviewed by one of our registered doctors who will issue you a prescription if you have taken this treatment before. If you have never used the contraceptive ring or patch, you will need to consult with your GP first.

Once approved, your package will be sent straight to your door with free delivery and in discreet packaging.