Understanding your contraceptive options

• 1

  Hormonal Pills

  Oral contraceptive pills work by preventing ovulation, affecting the uterine lining, and making it harder for sperm to fertilize an egg. Beyond preventing pregnancy, they're also commonly used to manage acne, premenstrual symptoms, and irregular periods, and are associated with a reduced long-term risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer. Centchroman (branded as Chhaya in India), a non-hormonal, once-a-week oral option, is also available for those who prefer to avoid daily hormonal pills.

• 2

  Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

  Copper IUDs can provide contraception for up to 10 years, while hormonal IUDs are typically effective for 3 to 7 years depending on the type. Both are long-acting and reversible, requiring no daily action once placed.

• 3

  Injectable Contraception

  Injectable hormonal contraceptives provide protection for a few months at a time, without requiring a daily pill.

• 4

  Barrier Methods

  Condoms and similar options, which also help protect against sexually transmitted infections — the only contraceptive category that offers this additional protection.

• 5

  Emergency Contraception

  Emergency contraceptive pills are most effective when taken within 72 to 120 hours of unprotected intercourse, depending on the specific method. A copper IUD inserted within 5 days can also serve as highly effective emergency contraception, with the added benefit of ongoing protection afterward. Emergency contraception is not intended as a regular, ongoing method.

• 6

  Permanent Contraception (Tubal Ligation)

  Typically performed as a minimally invasive day procedure using laparoscopy, for those certain they don't want future pregnancies.

Common myths about contraception

• 1

  Myth: Contraceptive pills cause infertility.

  Fact: Fertility returns quickly after stopping pills — they don't cause long-term reproductive harm.

• 2

  Myth: IUDs damage the uterus.

  Fact: When placed and monitored properly, IUDs are a safe, widely used long-term option, used by millions of women.

• 3

  Myth: Breastfeeding alone prevents pregnancy.

  Fact: Breastfeeding alone isn't a reliable contraceptive method — a separate method is still needed if you want to avoid pregnancy.

Choosing the right method for your situation

• 1

  If you have PCOD/PCOS

  Certain hormonal contraceptive methods can also help manage PCOD symptoms directly, so this is worth discussing together rather than choosing a method for contraception alone.

• 2

  If you're breastfeeding

  Some methods are more appropriate than others during this period — this is assessed based on your specific situation and timeline since delivery.

• 3

  If you're approaching perimenopause

  Contraceptive needs and appropriate options can shift as you get closer to menopause, and this is worth revisiting periodically rather than assuming your existing method is still the right fit.

• 4

  If you prefer a non-hormonal option

  The copper IUD and Centchroman are both non-hormonal choices worth discussing if you'd like to avoid hormonal methods specifically.

Family planning beyond contraception

Family planning isn't only about preventing pregnancy — it also includes planning the timing and spacing of pregnancies you do want, and preconception counseling to help you prepare for a future pregnancy as healthily as possible.

Privacy and confidentiality

Contraceptive and family planning consultations are handled with complete confidentiality, in a private, non-judgmental environment — including for unmarried women and teenagers, who deserve the same respectful, judgment-free access to accurate information as any other patient.