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THE
COMBINED PILL
Oral contraceptive
99.70% effective with careful use |
HOW
IT WORKS
Contains two hormones - oestrogen and progestogen. Taken regularly
it stops ovulation (the release of a woman's egg each month).
Healthy non-smoking women can now take the combined pill up
until the age of 45. |
Comments
Not as effective if taken over 12 hours late, or if there
is sickness or diarrhoea, when extra precautions must be used.
Some drugs may stop the pill working - a doctor will advise.
The pill is prescribed by a doctor. Pill users should try
not to smoke.
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THE
MINI PILL
Progestogen-only pill
98% effective |
HOW
IT WORKS
The hormone progestogen taken regularly (everyday at the same
time) causes changes making it difficult for sperm to enter
the womb. It also prevents some ovulations. |
Comments
Must be taken at same time daily or no more than three hours
late. Sickness, diarrhoea and some drugs may reduce it's effectiveness
when extra precautions must be used. Can be taken up until
the menopause
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INTRAUTERINE
DEVICE
IUD Coil 98% effective |
HOW
IT WORKS
A small copper device - which is inserted into the womb by a
doctor. It works mainly by preventing fertilisation. Newer IUDs
are effective for 8 years or longer. |
Comments
Best in the over 30's. Inserted by a specially-trained doctor.
Not suitable for those at risk of sexually transmitted infection.
Generally not suitable for nulliparous (no previous pregnancies)
or young single women.
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DIAPHRAGM
OR CAP
98% effective, with careful use. Not as
effective for young single people |
HOW
IT WORKS
A soft rubber device, put into the vagina before intercourse,
to cover the cervix (entrance to the womb), and form a barrier
which prevents sperm from meeting the egg. Must be used with
a spermicide and left in place for six hours after intercourse. |
Comments
A spermicidal cream or jelly must be used with the diaphragm.
Caps - cervical, which are smaller devices that only cover
the cervix, are also available, but are not quite as good
as the diaphragm. Diaphragms must be fitted by a doctor or
nurse.
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SPERMICIDES
(for use with diaphragm, cap or condom) |
HOW
IT WORKS
Spermicides inactivate sperm. |
Comments
Essential for use with diaphragm or cap.
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CONDOM
Sheath, Protective French Letter
96% effective, with careful use. Not as effective for young
single couples. There is a female condom available also, called
the femidom. |
HOW
IT WORKS
Made of thin rubber and worn over the erect penis, a condom
prevents sperm from entering the woman. The woman can use spermicide
for extra safety in case any sperm are spilt. Make sure you
read the instructions. |
Comments
Must be put on (using a new one each time) before the penis
touches any part of the woman's genital area and must be held
in place when the penis is withdrawn. Approved condoms carry
a British Standards Institution 'Kitemark'. If it breaks or
leaks ask for the Emergency Pill.
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