I AM WORRIED ABOUT MY FERTILITY

WHEN YOU’RE READY

Hormonal contraceptives like the long-acting reversible methods allow you to return to your normal fertility because the hormones in these methods leave the body after you stop using them.

WHEN DO YOU WANT TO GET PREGNANT?

Thinking about future pregnancies is bound to be a factor in deciding on a contraception method. Here are some things to consider.

WITHIN A YEAR

If you intend to get pregnant within a year or so, it might not be worth opting for a long-acting contraceptive. Shorter-term contraceptives such as the pill, a diaphragm, or the patch just might be easier for you to manage.

IN 3-5 YEARS

There are plenty of options for women who want to get pregnant in a few years’ time. If using contraception every time you have sex, or remembering a daily pill isn't an issue for you, then shorter-term options can work just fine. If you would prefer a longer acting option, methods like a coil or an implant may be suitable for you and can last up to 3 and 6 years depending on the method. You may also want to consider the hormonal injection which is given every 8 to 13 weeks. After you stop using the contraceptive injection, it can take up to a year to return to your normal fertility. This does not mean you are still covered in terms of contraception and you should use contraception methods if you do not wish to get pregnant.

FAR IN THE FUTURE

If you are not planning to become pregnant in the near future, and would rather have a long-acting contraception method that doesn't demand a regular routine, a contraceptive implant or a hormonal coil are both good options that work for up to 3 to 6 years. A copper coil does not contain hormones and works for a longer period - up to 5 to 10 years, depending on the type you choose. If you know that you don’t want to get pregnant, or if you don’t want to have more children, male or female sterilisation are the permanent, irreversible options.