Just like the perfect pair of heels, a perfect contraceptive method that suits your lifestyle is out there – with a little guidance from us, you can find it.
If you want to enjoy sex while avoiding unplanned pregnancy, it’s important you use a contraceptive method. There are different methods each with their own benefits including, long-acting, short acting and permanent. Keep reading to find out more about these methods.
Long-acting reversible methods
Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods are fantastic because they are the most effective, offering excellent protection against pregnancy, ranging from three months up to ten years. They also don’t interrupt sex and are reversible, meaning you can plan a future pregnancy at a time that’s right for you (if you want to).
These methods are ideal if you know that you don’t want to have children for a while. In fact, once in place, you don’t need to think about these methods until they need replacing. However, it’s important to remember that none of these methods protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) so you may also wish to use an additional barrier form of contraception, such as a condom.
LARC methods include:
- Hormonal IUD / loop
- Non-hormonal IUD / loop
- Implant
- Injection
MSI Tanzania offers long-acting reversible contraception, call us toll-free on 0800 753 333 or send us a WhatsApp to arrange a consultation.
Short-acting methods
Short-acting contraceptive methods prevent pregnancy for a limited time. They are temporary and can be easily stopped when you no longer need them.
Unlike LARC, these methods need regular input such as taking a daily pill, changing a patch weekly or wearing a condom every time you have sex. Barrier methods, such as condoms, are the only method of contraception that protect again STIs.
Short-acting methods include:
- Combined pill
- Mini pill
- Patch
- Vaginal ring
- Internal / female condom
- External / male condom
If you’d like to learn more about these methods, please get in touch so we can discuss which ones might be the best fit for you.
Permanent methods
Permanent contraceptive methods involve surgery – tubal ligation for women or vasectomy for men – that provides lifelong protection against pregnancy.
These methods are highly effective, have minimal side effects, and do not interrupt sex or affect your sex drive. However, you should think carefully before choosing a permanent method. They are not usually reversible so are only suitable for people who are sure they either don’t want children or to have any more children.
Using contraception after unprotected sex
If you’ve had unprotected sex or your contraception has failed (e.g. you’ve missed taking a pill or the condom has split), don’t panic – you have options. Emergency contraception can be used to prevent a pregnancy, if you act quick enough.
We’re here to help
If you’re starting to use contraception for the first time, or thinking about trying a new method, it’s a good idea to have a full consultation. Contact MSI Tanzania for a confidential chat or visit one of our clinics and we can help.
We’ve got a short video explaining questions to ask when choosing a method.
