Gynaecology · 7 min read

Contraception: the methods, and how to choose between them

There is no best method, only the one that fits your life. The right choice depends on whether you want children later, whether you are feeding a baby, your medical history, and — the part that gets least discussion — what you will actually remember to use.

Perfect use and real use are different numbers

Every method has two reliability figures: how well it works when used exactly as intended, and how well it works in ordinary life. For methods that need something done daily or each time, those two numbers are far apart. For methods that are fitted and then forgotten about, they are almost identical.

That gap is the single most useful thing to understand when choosing, and it is rarely explained. A method that is slightly less effective in theory but that you will genuinely use is the better method.

Long-acting methods

An intrauterine device is fitted in a short outpatient procedure and then works for years with nothing to remember. Both hormonal and non-hormonal types exist and they behave differently, particularly in what they do to periods — some make bleeding lighter, one commonly makes it heavier at first.

Fitting is uncomfortable rather than painful for most people and takes a few minutes. It can be removed whenever you want, and fertility returns quickly afterwards.

Hormonal methods you take or are given

The combined pill, progestogen-only pill and injectable options work in different ways and suit different people. Some are unsuitable if you smoke, have migraine with aura, or have certain other conditions — which is why this is a conversation rather than a purchase.

The progestogen-only options are generally compatible with breastfeeding. The combined pill usually is not, in the early months.

Barrier methods

Condoms are the only method that also reduces the transmission of infection, which is a reason to use them alongside another method in some situations rather than instead of one.

Permanent methods

Sterilisation, for either partner, should be approached as permanent. Reversal is sometimes possible and it is neither reliable nor cheap. If there is any real chance you will want children later, a long-acting reversible method does the same job without closing the door.

After a baby

Worth deciding before you need it rather than after. Some methods can be started immediately, some are best delayed a few weeks, and what is suitable depends partly on whether you are feeding. Raise it at the six-week check, or earlier if you would rather.

What we will not do

Nothing is fitted or prescribed without your consent, and nothing has to be decided on the day. You can take the information home, discuss it with whoever you want to, and come back.

We will also not require your husband's permission for a contraceptive method for you. That is your decision.

Written and reviewed by Dr. Jigna Jasoliya, M.S. (Obstetrics & Gynaecology), Gujarat Medical Council Reg. G/25348. Published 2026-09-26. Last checked 2026-09-26.

This article is general information, not medical advice about your own situation. If something here applies to you, come and talk to us.