Contraception, commonly known as birth control, plays a key role in family planning and reproductive health. With various methods available, understanding each contraceptive option can help individuals and couples make informed decisions based on their lifestyle, health and future plans.
This guide outlines the types of contraception, how they work, their benefits, and when to seek medical advice.
Contraception
Contraception, commonly known as birth control, plays a key role in family planning and reproductive health. With various methods available, understanding each contraceptive option can help individuals and couples make informed decisions based on their lifestyle, health, and future plans.
This guide outlines the types of contraception, how they work, their benefits, and when to seek medical advice.
Contraception refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy. It allows individuals to decide if and when they want to have children. The choice of birth control depends on factors like age, overall health, personal preferences, and future fertility plans.
There are several types of contraceptive options, broadly categorised as:
Each method has different levels of effectiveness and side effects.
While contraception is generally safe, some methods may cause side effects, especially hormonal ones. Common symptoms may include:
Barrier methods like condoms may cause irritation or allergic reactions (e.g., to latex). Most side effects are mild and temporary, but if symptoms are severe or persistent, medical attention is advised.
While most birth control methods are highly effective when used correctly, failure can occur due to:
Understanding the proper use of each method greatly reduces the chance of unintended pregnancy.
Before starting any contraceptive option, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider who may assess:
Doctors may also recommend tests (e.g., blood pressure checks, pelvic exams, or STI screenings) to determine which methods are safe and suitable.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to contraception. Here is a breakdown of popular contraceptive options:
Consult a healthcare provider if you:
A personalized consultation ensures safety, effectiveness and peace of mind.
In Singapore, various contraceptive options are available through general practitioners, gynaecologists and family planning clinics. Some methods may be Medisave-claimable or subsidised under health programmes.
At Pacific Healthcare Specialist Centre, we provide:
Take control of your reproductive health, book a contraception consultation with us today.
Implants and IUDs are among the most effective methods (over 99%). They are “long-acting” reversible methods, meaning you don’t have to worry about daily or regular use. They work by either releasing hormones (hormonal IUDs and implants) or using copper (for copper IUDs) to prevent pregnancy.
Pills and condoms are also effective but require more consistent and correct use to maintain high effectiveness. For example:
Yes. Speak to your doctor to safely transition between methods based on your needs.
No medical reason exists for taking a break from the pill unless advised by a doctor due to side effects or health changes.
Yes, fertility can return quickly depending on the method used. Plan accordingly if you are trying to conceive.
While some forms of contraception, such as condoms, can reduce the risk of STIs, no method offers complete protection. Practising safe sex, undergoing regular STI screenings, and receiving recommended vaccinations are important steps in reducing the risk of infection.
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