Forms of contraception

• The condom is a non-hormonal form of contraception which prevents sperm from entering the vagina. It is 98% effective for men and 95% for women. Condoms prevent the spread of STIs
• A diaphragm is non-hormonal barrier which prevents sperm from entering the vagina. It is removed after 6 or more hours. It is 92-96 % effective and not effective unless used with spermicide
• An intrauterine device is non-hormonal and inserted into the uterus. It releases copper which prevents sperm from reaching the egg
• Combined pills are a hormonal contraception which thicken mucus in cervix to make it harder for sperm to swim to the egg. It also makes the uterus lining thicker so that the fertilised egg cannot implant and stops the release of eggs.
• Combined pills are 99 % effective and must be taken every for 21 days of the menstrual cycle
• A progesterone pill does the same thing as a combined pill, and must be taken everyday at the same time
• An intrauterine system is a hormonal contraception which is inserted into the uterus and has the same effect as the progesterone pill. Its over 99 % effective and remains effective for 3-5 years
• An intrauterine device remains effective for 5-10 years