Non-oral contraception for women
There are several several types of non-oral contraceptives for women:
- Mirena IUS
- Copper IUD
- Contraceptive Implant
- Injectable contraception
- Sterilization
- Natural Method (not recommended)
Today we will be covering the top three, commonly known as ‘Fit-and-Forget’ contraception. Many women will opt for these forms of contraception because of the low maintenance or have experienced pill fatigue from taking oral contraceptives.
Mirena Progestogen-releasing Intrauterine System (IUS)
This is an intrauterine device containing a progestogen. It is placed inside the womb and slowly releases progestogen. It is effective for 5 years. Progesterone works by thinning the lining of the womb and therefore making implantation less likely. It also thickens cervical mucus and may inhibit ovulation.
This is a long-acting contraceptive cover that can last for 5 years. Periods often become much lighter and shorter, sometimes less painful, and may stop completely making it a suitable treatment for heavy, painful periods. It can be used during breastfeeding.
Both Mirena IUS and Copper IUD are suitable for women looking for longer-lasting contraception or who feel that their family is complete but not ready for sterilization methods. However the copper IUD may cause heavier, longer or more painful periods (see below).
Best suited for: You want a birth control option that needs minimal to no maintenance.
How soon does it work: Will work right away if you put it in during the first 7 days of your period. Otherwise, it may take up to 7 days to prevent pregnancy.
Copper IUD
The copper IUD is a small plastic and copper device that is placed inside the uterus. The most common type of IUD in Singapore lasts 5 years. The main way it works is to prevent fertilization. It is inserted by a doctor in clinic after a pelvic examination.
It contains no hormone and therefore is not associated with hormonal adverse effects. It is suitable for women who cannot take any form of hormonal contraception. It can be used in breastfeeding.
Potential rare complications include uterine perforation, infection, expulsion of the device and ectopic pregnancy – a pregnancy occurring in the fallopian tube in the unlikely event of pregnancy.
Best suited for: You want a non-hormonal control option that needs minimal to no maintenance.
How soon does it work: This will work as soon as its fitted.
The Contraceptive Implant
The contraceptive implant is a small plastic rod that is implanted into the skin of your upper arm. The medicine dose is released slowly into the body in the form of a progestogen hormone. The brand available in Singapore is Implanon which is effective for 3 years. The mechanism of action through the progesterone hormone is similar to that of the Mirena IUS device as described above.
Insertion of the implant is performed under local anaesthesia. Removal is also done under local anaesthesia and can be done anytime. Sometimes hormonal side effects may be experienced.
Best suited for: You want a birth control option that needs minimal to no maintenance.
How soon does it work: Will work right away if you put it in during the first 7 days of your period. Otherwise, it may take up to 7 days to prevent pregnancy.