Lots of people have questions about contraception. Some of the most common are answered here by Dr Tina Peers, a consultant in contraception and sexual health.
The content of this section of the Talk Choice website is provided by Dr Tina for general information and should not be treated as a substitute for the specific medical advice of your own doctor or medical advisor.
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Q: How many methods of contraception are there?
Dr Tina says: There are now 15 methods of contraception available in the UK, the latest being the patch and contraceptive ring. Click here to find out more about each method available. Your doctor or nurse will be able to advise you on which method will suit you best but it's also worth thinking about what you want from contraception too. Click here to find out how.
Q: Are all contraceptive pills the same?
Dr Tina says: No. There are two categories of contraceptive pills available – the combined oral contraceptive pill (COC or ‘the Pill') and the progestogen-only pill (POP or the ‘mini pill'). Combined oral contraceptive pills contain both estrogen and progestogen, whereas progestogen-only pills contain only progestogen. There is a wide range in each group and different pills suit different women – if you are not happy with the pill you are taking, make an appointment with your doctor or nurse who will be able to discuss the contraceptive options available to you. Click here to find out more.
Q: I've just had a baby and I am breastfeeding. Can I still get pregnant?
Dr Tina says: Yes. The only time breastfeeding women are protected against unplanned pregnancy is during the first six months if:
- They are breastfeeding their baby fully. This includes not supplementing breast milk with any milk or food, breastfeeding at regular intervals during the day and night with no feeds missed for any reason (eg illness)
- Their periods have not returned
If you are worried about unplanned pregnancy whilst breastfeeding, consult your doctor or nurse to discuss your contraceptive options.
Q: Can I get pregnant the first time I have sex?
Dr Tina says: Yes. A woman can get pregnant any time ovulation occurs (an egg is released). This means that a woman can get pregnant the first time they have sex so it's important to use contraception, even if it is your first time.
Q: Will the contraceptive pill make me put on weight?
Dr Tina says: No. Research has shown that women do not put on weight when they use the combined oral contraceptive pill (COC or ‘the pill') or other combined methods (that contain estrogen and progestogen) such as the contraceptive patch or ring. Click here to get more information on the combined oral contraceptive pill, contraceptive patch and contraceptive ring.
Q. Can I take the pill back to back?
Dr Tina says: Yes. It is fine to start a new pack of pills straight after your last one; you can do this if you want to delay your period for a holiday for example. If you run more than two packets together you might experience breakthrough bleeding as the womb lining continues to build up and it might shed a little. Speak to your doctor or nurse if you need further advice.
Q: Do I need to use contraception if my boyfriend pulls out before he ejaculates?
Dr Tina says: Yes. Pulling out before the man ejaculates, known as withdrawal, is not a foolproof method of contraception. Some sperm might be released before the man actually begins to climax. In addition, some men might not have the willpower or be able to withdraw in time.
Q: I've been told that if I have a shower or bath after sex I won't get pregnant, is this true?
Dr Tina says: No. Having a bath or shower after sex won't stop you getting pregnant, as sperm may have already entered the womb. You need to use a method of contraception to prevent an unplanned pregnancy.
Q: How often can I use the emergency contraceptive pill?
Dr Tina says: Emergency contraception should be reserved for emergencies only and not replace your usual method of contraception. As well as the emergency contraceptive pill, the intrauterine device (IUD) can also be used as emergency contraception by fitting it up to 5 days (120 hours) after the earliest predicted ovulation. Click here for more information on emergency contraception.
Q. Do I have to wait for the first day of my period to start contraception?
Dr Tina says: No. As long as you are sure that you are not pregnant, you can start your contraception on any day of your menstrual cycle but you may need to use extra precautions. Click here to find out more about each method. Speak to your doctor or nurse for further advice.
Q: Can I still get pregnant during my period?
Dr Tina says: Yes. Although rare, it is possible to become pregnant during your period as pregnancy can occur anytime that sperm gets into the vagina. Women often mistake slight bleeding that can occur with ovulation (when the chance of pregnancy is greatly increased) as their period. Additionally, some women ovulate at the very end of their period and sperm can live in the female reproductive system for up to seven days. You should always use a method of contraception to prevent an unplanned pregnancy. Click here to find out more about each method.
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