Combined pill (oestrogen and progestogen) or mini pill (progestogen only), highly effective and easy to use and reduces heavy and painful periods BUT doesn’t protect against STIs, can cause changes in menstrual cycle and high effectiveness relies on user taking at correct time, not missing a dose and can be affected by sickness and some medications.

Aka marina or hormonal coil (contains oestrogen and progestogen), highly affective and doesn’t rely on users memory, stays in place for 3 to 5 years and can be removed earlier if needed. HOWEVER, doesn’t protect against STIs and can cause menstrual changes and cramps.

Aka copper coil (contains medical grade copper which is a natural spermicide), can stay in for 5-10 years, highly affective and doesn’t rely on users memory. HOWEVER, can increase heavy periods and cause cramps, does not protect against STIs.

Easily carried, no change to menstrual cycle and can protect against STIs.

HOWEVER, can tear/come off, relies on accurate use, and can lead to irritation if latex allergy is present – can get latex free.

Highly effective, easy to put on and remove, don’t need to remember to take it every day. HOWEVER, visible, may come loose or fall off and does not protect against STIs.

Easy to remove and insert, highly effective HOWEVER doesn’t protect against STIs and may cause irritation.

Long active lasting about 3 years, highly effective and doesn’t rely on user memory, HOWEVER doesn’t protect against STIs and may cause changes in menstrual cycle.

Lasts 1-3 months, can reduce heavy and painful periods, HOWEVER doesn’t protect against STIs and may cause changes in menstrual cycle.

Hormone free, protects against STIs HOWEVER using takes practice and is not as effective as condoms for penis.