There is no single method that is the best choice for every person. It is important to find out which method suits you the best. Even if you are currently not sexually active, it is a good idea to think ahead about birth control.
First and foremost, you should always discuss your birth control options with your doctor. Choosing a birth control method is an important decision for a woman. In order to make a good choice, women need to know the facts about each option. The contraceptive pill is probably the most reliable method, when not taking into account the methods of abstention or sterilisation. The pill may be a good option for women who haven’t decided yet on ever having children or not.
It is important to note that there may be medical contraindications for certain methods of birth control. For instance, women at risk of thrombosis
cannot use hormonal contraceptives. Women should speak with their doctor about which method of birth control is best suited for them.
Here are some things to consider when discussing your birth control options with your doctor:
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Efficacy: How well does each method prevent pregnancy?
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Method of delivery: Is it no problem for you to be punctual, e.g. in taking a pill daily, or are you sometimes forgetful?
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Spontaneity: Would you mind using a method where you must insert/use just prior to having sexual intercourse?
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Children: Do you still plan to have children in the future?
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Regimen: Would you prefer a method that you must use only during sex, or on a daily /weekly basis?
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Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs): Are you in a mutually monogamous relationship? Do you need a method that helps protect against STDs?
Selecting the most appropriate method of contraception for you is the result of mutual consultation between you and your doctor. Some of the questions your doctor may ask you during your visit are listed in this downloadable document.
What the doctor needs to know?
When deciding which contraception method is best for you, your doctor might ask you the following questions:
- Which method of birth control are you using right now?
- How satisfied are you with your current method?
- Could you be pregnant at the moment?
- When was your last menstruation?
- How often do you menstruate?
- What is the length of your menstrual cycle?
- Do you experience severe blood loss during your period?
- Do you smoke?
- What is your weight?
- Would you prefer a method you only have to use at the time of sexual intercourse, or on a daily/ weekly basis?
- Do you have the discipline/lifestyle to think punctually about contraception every day?
- Do you suffer from vomiting or diarrhoea regularly (e.g. during a migraine attack, under stress…)?
- Are you regularly treated with antibiotics?
- Do you still plan to have children in the future?
