- It is important to choose a contraception that suits your body and lifestyle. There are several methods of contraception ranging from natural and barrier methods (condoms) to daily or popular long term reversible options available.
- Special procedures, Mirena /Kyleena Coil, Copper Coil and Implanon insertion, need to be discussed at an earlier consultation with your doctor to ensure that you choose an option which best suits you.
- Below are a summary of options provided by our doctors along with some helpful links.
| Type | What is it? | How long it lasts? | How it works? | Appointment Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Contraceptive Pill (COCP) | The combined pill contains two hormones – oestrogen and progestogen. | The combined pill is taken every day, at roughly the same time, for three weeks followed by a break. It is not reliable if taken over 12 hours late. | The combined pill prevents pregnancy by several mechanisms: preventing the egg from leaving the ovary, changing the cervical mucus to restrict sperm movement and changing the lining of the uterus to make it less suitable for implantation. | Please talk to your doctor for further information or follow the links below. |
| Patch(Evra) | As above | Each patch is put in place once every week for 3 weeks.The fourth week is patch free. | Please talk to your doctor for further information or follow the links below. | |
| The Contraceptive Ring ‘Nuvaring’ | A small, flexible plastic ring that contains oestrogen and progestogen. It is inserted into the vagina by the woman. | Once inserted the ring may be left in place for 3 weeks. The ring is then removed by the woman herself to allow a withdrawal bleed. The ring is then reinserted 1 week following. | The ring releases hormones similar to those found in the combined pill. The hormones are released directly into the blood vessels in the vaginal wall. The hormones in the ring prevent the egg from leaving the ovary. | Please speak to your doctor for further information. |
| Mini Pill (Progesterone only pill) | The mini pill contains small amounts of one hormone – progesterone. | The mini pill must be taken every day (ie no break like cocp) ( within 3-12 hrs (depending on exact type chosen) | The mini pill prevents pregnancy by changing the cervical mucus to restrict sperm movement and changing the lining of the uterus. | Please speak to your doctor for further information. |
| Contraceptive Injection (Depo-Provera) | An injection of the hormone progestogen that provides a longer acting alternative to the pill. | The injection is taken once every 3 months. | The injection prevents pregnancy by preventing the egg from leaving the ovary. | This may be prescribed by your doctor. Follow-up injections may be given by our nurse. |
| Contraceptive Implant (Implanon) ‘Rod’ | A small flexible plastic rod (size of a matchstick) containing progestogen that is inserted, just under the skin on the inside of the upper arm. | The implant contains enough contraceptive hormone for up to three years. After that it must be removed and can be replaced if desired. It may be removed sooner if required. | The implant continuously releases a small amount of the hormone progestogen to prevent pregnancy by changing the cervical mucous and inhibiting ovulation. | Insertion is minimally uncomfortable and requires a 15 minute appointment with a doctor.Cost: €75 Removal of Implanon is a surgical procedure requiring a 30 minute appointment.Cost: €100 |
| Intrauterine Device (IUD) Mirena Coil | A small, plastic T-shaped device with a cylinder around its stem that releases the hormone progesterone. It is placed inside the uterus. This is a surgical procedure and can be done by our experienced female GP’s. | The IUD can remain in place for up to 5 years. | The IUS continuously releases a small amount of the hormone progestogen to prevent pregnancy by changing cervical mucus and preventing fertilisation and implantation. | Cervical Smear and Chlamydia swab required prior to insertion. The procedure takes 30 mins and includes follow up appointment at 6 weeks post insertion. Please discuss with our staff for further details. Cost: €160 |
| Emergency Contraception (‘Morningafter Pill’) | The Emergency Pill is a single tablet taken 24 – 72 hrs following unprotected intercourse. | It can be taken up to 3 days after unprotected intercourse, but is most effective if taken within 24 hours. | It prevents pregnancy by reducing the chances of both fertilisation and implantation. | We will provide early appointment for any patient requiring this service. |
| Permanent Contraceptive Measures | Tubal Ligation (Female Sterilisation) Vasectomy (male) | Permanent IrreversibleSurgical Options | Surgical Procedures | Please talk to your doctor for further information or appropriate referral. |
Useful links: www.mycontraception.ie & www.thinkcontraception.ie.