What is the safest and most effective contraceptive method?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 26-year-old woman considering birth control, but I feel confused by the many options. I do not want to gain weight or have mood swings, which I have heard can happen with pills. I am also worried about long-term safety. I am in a stable relationship, but not planning pregnancy for at least three to four years. Kindly guide me with my questions below:

Do hormonal methods increase the risk of infertility, blood clots, or cancer?
Are non-hormonal methods like copper IUDs safer, and how do they compare in effectiveness?
Could you guide me on which option is best based on health and convenience?

I would also like to know what tests I should do before starting.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

I understand your concern about the contraception used. This can be used, but with precautions. Many of the contraceptive methods have some side effects.

1. Do hormonal methods increase the risk of infertility, blood clots, or cancer?

Usually, they do not cause cancer, but the hormones can have some effect on other organs in the body. Minor variations in the uterine lining can sometimes happen.

2. Are non-hormonal methods like copper IUDs (intrauterine devices) safer, and how do they compare in effectiveness?

These methods are good for long-term contraception. Hormone-coated IUDs are also available. This is seen to be more effective.

3. Could you guide me on which option is best based on health and convenience?

Do a USG (ultrasonography) scan, do a hormonal analysis, and also check your general health. Do a master health checkup. This will help. Also, your partner can get checked. Men also have contraceptive methods that are safer and more effective.

I hope that this answers your query.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.