Contraception
Contraceptive methods are intended to prevent and prevent unwanted pregnancy. The choice of the method of contraception is a choice that often involves the balance of various factors, both clinical and economic.
Some contraceptive options, due to advances in medicine, today offer a good balance between low hormone dosages and high levels of efficacy. The existing offer includes several differentiated options that can meet the different needs of women, who remain the main decision-makers on this theme. Condoms, however, remain the only method of contraception that protects against Sexually Transmitted Infections.
There are several questions that need to be asked in the responsible choice of the method of contraception: is it effective? Is it reversible? Are you adapted to my lifestyle? Is it the best option given my clinical context?
Only a doctor can give proper professional advice. Each woman is unique, and with all the options that are available, can adapt contraception to her routine and clinical condition.
Hormonal contraceptive method of daily use, with an effectiveness of 99% when taken correctly. There are pills with and without estrogen. See more about estrogen-without-contraception here.
Single-use non-hormonal method that acts as a barrier method. It is the only method that protects against IST. There are the male condom and the female condom.
Soft and flexible texture ring that inserts into the vagina once a month. It is a combined hormonal method that releases hormones regularly into the bloodstream. It is a method for women who do not want oral contraception or a daily dose regimen. Constant hormone levels are lower than the pill, and there may be fewer side effects associated with them.
Long-term method of contraception up to 3 years and containing only progestogen. It should be placed by the doctor during a consultation.
Weekly method of use consisting of an adhesive that releases hormones daily through the skin into the bloodstream.
SIU (with hormones) and IUDs (with copper) are long-term methods of up to 5 years, such as high efficacy and should be placed by the doctor during a consultation.
Flexible rubber device that is introduced into the vagina.
Hormonal injection one, two or three months long.
Chemical contraceptive that is placed in the vagina and decreases the fertilization capacity of spermatozoa.
Several methods that imply the knowledge of the menstrual cycle, usually difficult to use and that require a high level of organization on the part of the woman.
Irreversible surgical intervention to dister the tubes (ligation of the tubes) or the vasde (vasectomy).
Method of inhibition of ovulation that aims to prevent pregnancy after sexual intercourse.
A woman who often uses emergency contraception should consult her doctor to reassess her contraceptive options.
Editorial Note: This page and all other contents presented in lifewell.pt are prepared and reviewed by medical experts in Portugal.
