Contraception advice

Contraception Advice: Finding the Right Choice for You

Choosing a method of contraception is a deeply personal decision — one that can change depending on your lifestyle, your health, and your future plans. With so many options available today, it can feel overwhelming to know which is right for you.

At Happiher, we believe that contraception advice should be tailored, not templated. As a private gynaecologist in London, I help women explore their options in a supportive, informed setting — ensuring your choice fits your body and your goals.

Why Personalised Contraception Advice Matters

Contraception isn’t one-size-fits-all. What suits your best friend or even your past self might not suit you today. Your medical history, menstrual health, lifestyle, and reproductive plans all play a role in finding the right solution.

During your appointment, you can expect comprehensive care that includes consultations, physical examinations, and investigations to address your reproductive health concerns.

At Happiher, we take time to discuss:

• Your health background (including blood pressure, migraines, family history, etc.)

• Your menstrual cycle and hormonal profile

• Whether you prefer hormonal or non-hormonal options

• Whether you’re seeking short-term or long-term contraception

• Fertility preservation considerations for the future

• Side effects you’re willing — or not willing — to manage

Introduction to Contraception

Contraception refers to the use of methods or devices to prevent pregnancy, and it is an essential aspect of reproductive health and women’s health. There are various contraception methods available, including hormonal and non-hormonal options, such as the combined pill, vaginal rings, and barrier methods like condoms.

Contraception methods can be used not only to prevent pregnancy but also to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and manage symptoms like heavy periods and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Reliable methods of contraception, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants, can provide long-term protection against pregnancy and are suitable for women who want to delay or space out their pregnancies.

Emergency contraception, such as the morning-after pill, can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, and it is essential to have access to this type of contraception to prevent unintended pregnancies. Contraception information and services should be readily available to women of all ages, including girls and young women, to help them make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

A consultant gynaecologist can provide guidance on the right contraception method for individual needs and help women navigate the various treatment options available. Contraception methods can have different benefits and risks, and it is crucial to assess these factors when deciding on a method, considering aspects such as effectiveness, convenience, and potential side effects.

Women’s health clinics and services can provide access to a range of contraception methods, including hormonal and non-hormonal options, and offer support and guidance on reproductive health and fertility awareness. Contraception is a critical aspect of women’s health, and it is essential to prioritize access to quality contraception services and information to protect women’s health and well-being.

Types of Contraception Available

Here’s a brief overview of the options we may explore together:

Health professionals can advise on different methods based on personal circumstances, effectiveness, and potential side effects.

Hormonal Methods

• Combined oral contraceptive pill (“the pill”) — hormonal methods involve the use of hormones such as oestrogen and progestogen

• Progestogen-only pill (mini pill) — often used when oestrogen is not advised

• Contraceptive patch — worn on the skin and changed weekly

• Vaginal ring — a soft ring inserted into the vagina, replaced monthly

• Contraceptive injection — given every 8–13 weeks

• Hormonal intrauterine system (IUS) — e.g., Mirena coil, lasting 3–5 years

Non-Hormonal Methods

• Copper intrauterine device (IUD) — non-hormonal coil lasting up to 10 years

• Barrier methods — condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps

Another non-hormonal option is the withdrawal method, which involves interrupting intercourse before ejaculation to prevent pregnancy. However, it is considered less reliable, with around 22 in 100 couples experiencing pregnancy within a year.

Permanent Options

• Female sterilisation — surgical procedure to block fallopian tubes

• Vasectomy (for male partners) — simple outpatient procedure

When considering these permanent options, it's important to also take into account the cost implications, as both female sterilisation and vasectomy can involve significant financial expenses.

Natural Methods

Each method has different benefits, potential side effects, and considerations. A conversation with an experienced gynaecologist can help you weigh these thoughtfully.

By carefully tracking your cycle, you can discover your fertility patterns and better understand your reproductive health.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Contraception

When discussing contraception at Happiher, we often look at:

• Effectiveness (based on typical use, not perfect use)

• Ease of use and lifestyle fit

• Control over menstrual symptoms (lighter periods, reduced cramping)

• Hormonal side effects (e.g., mood changes, acne, breast tenderness)

• Future fertility goals

• Medical risks or contraindications

Initial investigations can help identify the most suitable contraception method.

It’s important to be honest about what feels acceptable to you — whether that’s wanting a hormone-free option, preferring minimal maintenance, or needing additional protection against heavy periods.

Contraception for Specific Needs

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may require specific contraception methods to manage their symptoms, such as hormonal contraception to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce the risk of breast cancer. Women with heavy periods may benefit from using contraception methods like the IUD or hormonal pills to reduce menstrual bleeding and alleviate symptoms.

Women who experience anxiety or pain during sex may need to consider alternative contraception methods, such as non-hormonal options or barrier methods, to prioritize their comfort and well-being. Women who have had a previous abortion or are considering abortion may need to access emergency contraception or other reproductive health services to prevent unintended pregnancies.

Women with fibroids or other gynaecological conditions may require specialized contraception methods or treatment options to manage their symptoms and protect their reproductive health. Women who are trying to conceive may need to use fertility awareness methods or seek guidance from a fertility specialist to increase their chances of getting pregnant.

Women who have undergone robotic-assisted surgery for gynaecological conditions may need to consider alternative contraception methods or treatment options to prioritize their reproductive health and well-being. Women with a history of breast cancer may need to avoid certain contraception methods, such as hormonal pills, and instead opt for non-hormonal options or barrier methods to reduce their risk of recurrence.

Women who experience menopause symptoms may need to consider hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other treatment options to manage their symptoms and prioritize their reproductive health. Women who have concerns about their reproductive health or are experiencing symptoms like pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding should seek guidance from a consultant gynaecologist or women’s health clinic to access quality care and treatment options.

Managing Contraceptive Side Effects

Most side effects settle after the first few months, but if they persist or affect your quality of life, they’re worth discussing. Common concerns include:

• Changes in bleeding patterns

• Mood fluctuations

• Weight changes

• Headaches

• Libido changes

We can adjust, switch, or replan your contraception if needed. At Happiher, you’re never “stuck” with a method that doesn’t suit you.

Evidence supports the effectiveness and safety of various contraceptive methods, ensuring they are suitable for diverse populations, including adolescents and women with different reproductive histories.

Contraception Across Life Stages

Your contraceptive needs can change depending on your age and life situation:

• Teens and young women: focus on ease of use, skin benefits, and STI protection

• Postpartum women: breastfeeding-safe options may be needed

• Women over 40: transition options to prepare for perimenopause and menopause

• Women with medical conditions: personalised plans for those with migraines, clotting risks, endometriosis, etc.

Personalised advice helps you navigate these transitions smoothly. Different life stages and relationships can also influence your contraceptive needs.

Emergency Contraception

If you’ve had unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (e.g., condom breakage, missed pills), emergency contraception is available. Options include:

• Emergency contraceptive pill (within 3–5 days, depending on the type)

• Copper IUD insertion (the most effective method, up to 5 days after ovulation)

Early advice can maximise effectiveness — don’t hesitate to reach out promptly.

Prompt diagnosis of contraceptive failure can help in choosing the most effective emergency contraception.

Why Choose Happiher for Contraception Advice?

If you’re looking for contraception advice in London, Happiher offers:

• Specialist private consultations and comprehensive gynaecology services

• Full range of contraceptive options explained clearly

• On-site coil and implant fitting where appropriate

• Immediate support for side effect management or changes

• Compassionate, discreet, patient-centred care

Patients can benefit from on-site testing to ensure comprehensive care.

Choosing contraception is about more than just preventing pregnancy — it’s about empowering your life, your choices, and your future.

Final Thoughts

You deserve contraception that fits your needs — not just what’s most commonly prescribed. Whether you’re looking for your first method, need a change, or simply want to explore your options, expert, personalised advice can make all the difference.

At Happiher, we’re here to support you at every stage — with clear information, compassionate care, and expert guidance you can trust.