Another highly-effective contraceptive method is progestin-only birth control. Learn about the different ways to take this hormone. Progestin-only birth control methods keep an egg from being released or causes changes in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are four progestin-only methods. The methods are very effective and reversible, and are often recommended for women who cannot take oestrogen, including women who are breast-feeding.

IMPLANT

The implant is a thin plastic rod that releases progestin. It works for up to three years. The implant is placed under the skin in the upper arm by a trained healthcare provider. It can be removed by a trained healthcare provider at any time. Current medical studies list the implant as the most effective reversible birth control method.

INJECTIONS

An injection of progestin is given in the arm or buttocks. It works for up to three months, so four shots are needed each year. In some cases, a lower dose shot of progestin is also available. A healthcare provider ca tell you more about this option.

PROGESTIN-ONLY PILLS

Progestin-only pills (also called mini-pills) are taken daily at the same time. They must be prescribed by a healthcare provider. Know what to do if you are late taking a pill or if you miss a pill. If this happens, a back-up form of birth control may be needed for a week or more.

PROGESTIN-ONLY IUD

The IUD (intrauterine device) is small, flexible and T-shaped. It is placed in the uterus by a trained healthcare by a trained healthcare provider. The IUD is one of the most effective birth control methods. It is reversible, which means it can be removed at any time by a trained healthcare provider. The progestin-only IUD causes changes in the uterus to help prevent pregnancy. The device works for at least five years. It may be recommended for women who have anaemia or heavy and painful periods. IUDs have thin strings that hang from the opening of the uterus into the vagina. These allow you to check that the IUD remains in place.

Copper IUD is another type of IUD. It releases a small amount of copper into the uterus. Copper makes it harder for sperm to reach the egg. The device works for at least 10 years. However, this type of IUD is often associated with heavier periods and cramping.

The IUD can be used by women who have never been pregnant or by women with a history of STIs or tubal pregnancy. It will not move from the uterus to any other part of the body. Well, there is a slight risk of device coming out of the vagina (expulsion). The IUD may not work in women who have an abnormally-shaped uterus. Progestin IUD may cause light periods or no periods at all (spotting is possible and normal during first three months).