Whilst the most common form of contraception is the condom, coming in a close second are those methods that rely on hormones to alter the woman's reproductive system to prevent pregnancy.
These methods include the Pill, the mini-Pill, and implants such as Implanon which provide slow-release of the hormone into the body over a sustained period of time.
Before choosing a hormonal contraceptive, talk to your doctor if you:
- Are on anti-coagulants or have a blood clotting disorder
- Have a history of severe depression
- Are diabetic
- Have high blood pressure
- Have irregular periods or periods that are spaced at long intervals.
What will the doctor do?
- Take a medical history
- Measure weight and blood pressure
- Perform a breast check, a pelvic exam and a Pap smear.
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