Choosing your contraception: a guide to making an informed decision
Choosing your method of contraception is a very personal decision that goes far beyond simply preventing a pregnancy. It is a tool of autonomy that allows you to experience your sexuality and plan your life on your own terms. The era when "the pill" was the only option is over; today, a wide range of possibilities exists, each with its own advantages and characteristics.
The "best" choice is the one that fits your body, your lifestyle, and your comfort level.
Hormonal methods
These methods use synthetic hormones (similar to estrogen and progesterone) to primarily prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, thereby blocking the passage of sperm. They are divided into two main families:
1. Combined hormonal contraceptives (estrogen + progestin)
These methods are highly effective and can have additional benefits, such as regulating cycles and reducing acne or menstrual cramps.
- The combined pill ("the pill"): This is the best-known method. It requires taking one pill every day, ideally at the same time.
- The contraceptive patch (Evra®): A patch that you stick on your skin and change every week, for three out of four weeks. An excellent option if you're concerned about forgetting a daily pill.
- The vaginal ring (NuvaRing®): A flexible ring that you insert into the vagina yourself for three weeks, followed by a one-week removal period. It offers great discretion and frees you from a daily or weekly mental load.
2. Progestin-only methods
These options are ideal for people who cannot or do not want to take estrogen (e.g., while breastfeeding, for smokers over 35, in case of migraines with aura, etc.).
- The "mini-pill": A pill without estrogen that must be taken every day at the same time, with a stricter time window than the combined pill.
- The progesterone injection (Depo-Provera®): An injection administered by a healthcare professional every three months. It is a very effective and discreet option.
- The contraceptive implant (Nexplanon®): A small, flexible rod, the size of a matchstick, inserted under the skin of the arm by a doctor. It releases progestin continuously and is effective for three years.
- The hormonal IUD (Mirena®, Kyleena®): A plastic device inserted into the uterus by a professional, which releases a low dose of progestin. It is effective for 5 to 8 years and is very popular because it significantly reduces or even stops menstrual bleeding.
Non-hormonal methods
The Copper IUD
- What it is: A small copper device inserted into the uterus. It is a highly effective hormone-free option that can last from 5 to 10 years.
- To consider: It can sometimes make periods heavier or more painful.
Barrier methods
- What they are: The male and female condom, and the dental dam.
- Major advantage: They are the only tools that also protect against STIs.
Emergency contraception
Also known as the "morning-after pill," it can be used after unprotected or poorly protected sex to prevent a pregnancy. Your pharmacist can prescribe it after a short consultation. It should remain an occasional solution and not a regular method of contraception.
Your pharmacist's role: to prescribe and advise
In Quebec, pharmacists can now prescribe most contraceptive methods (pill, patch, ring, injection, emergency contraception) after a consultation.
We are trained to assess your needs, discuss contraindications, and help you choose the method that will give you the freedom and peace of mind you are looking for.
Resources to learn more
- Sexplique.org (FR): The Quebec reference, with clear and taboo-free language.
- Sex & U (EN/FR): The website of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC), a source of very high-quality medical information.
- SOS Grossesse (FR): Offers an excellent, detailed comparative guide to the different methods.
