Find out about the different methods of contraception for preventing pregnancy, how to get them and how well they work. You can also compare different methods, including how well they work and side effects, when choosing a method of contraception.
The short acting contraception methods include:
The combined oral contraception pill
The progestogen only pill (the mini pill)
The contraceptive patch
The contraceptive vaginal ring
Where can I get this contraception from?
Most types of contraception are available for free in the UK through the NHS. Talk to your GP or practice nurse for more information. You can also get your contraceptive pill from your pharmacy without a prescription.
Online options
If you are sure of the method you would like, you can request the following online:
• Contraceptive Pills (new and repeat)
• Patch (new and repeat)
• Vaginal Ring (new and repeat)
The contraception methods below do not protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s) so the use of condoms is always recommended at the same time.
The combined oral contraception pill
A very popular form of contraception, often known as the ‘birth control pill’ and it is taken every day in the form of a pill. It contains two hormones (estrogen and progestogen) that prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg.
Who can use it?
Not everyone can use the combined pill. Your GP or clinician will be able to advise you according to your medical records. Some conditions may mean you should not use the pill, such as certain medications, being overweight, breastfeeding, some illness such as certain types of migraine, amongst others.
Important to note:
You will need to take this pill at the same time each day. If you think this may not be possible, take a look at our Long Acting Contraception Methods.
Find out more about the Combined Pill on the NHS website here
The progestogen only pill
Sometimes called ‘the mini pill’, the difference between the progestogen-only pill (POP) and the combined pill, is that the POP contains only one hormone, progestogen, instead of two. This means the POP can be used safely by more people than the combined pill, as progestogen is associated with fewer risks.
Important to note: You will need to take this pill at the same time each day. If you think this may not be possible, take a look at our Long Acting Contraception Methods.
Find out more about the Progestogen Only Pill on the NHS website
The contraceptive patch
The contraceptive patch is an adhesive patch that delivers hormones into your body through the skin. It prevents pregnancy in the same way as the combined pill and contains the same hormones- oestrogen and progestogen. You can wear the patch anywhere on your body (apart from on the breast), as long as the skin is clean and not very hairy.
Who can use it? Not everyone can use the contraceptive patch, it is important to see your doctor or nurse for advice.
Find out more about the Contraceptive Patch here
The contraceptive vaginal ring
The contraceptive vaginal ring is a flexible, transparent, plastic ring placed in the vagina and that releases two hormones (estrogen and progestogen). It needs to be placed once a month, so after the first demonstration done by your GP or clinician, you will be able to do it yourself.
There may be factors that prevent you from using the contraceptive ring, your clinician will review your medical history to see if you are suitable.
Find out more about the Vaginal Ring here
Contraception Choices
There are many types of contraception available and none are perfect. The Contraception Choices website provides honest information to help weigh up the pros and cons.
