Frequently asked questions on contraception

Written by Dr David Delvin, GP and family planning specialist

What methods of contraception are reliable?

There are 12 methods of contraception that you can regard as highly dependable.

The Pill.

The mini-Pill.

The patch (Evra).

The IUD (the coil).

The IUS.

The injection.

The implant.

The condom.

The diaphragm and the cap.

Vasectomy.

Female sterilisation.

Natural family planning if taught by a properly qualified professional.

All these methods do carry a small failure rate – nothing is 100 per cent effective. But each of these options is an awful lot better than just crossing your fingers and hoping for the best.

What about spermicides? Are they effective?

Spermicidal creams, foams, pessaries and sponges are no longer considered effective enough on their own.

What is the best method of contraception?

Quite a few couples come into my clinic asking this question, but there isn't a best method of family planning. What matters is what works for you.

Different things suit different people. If it's any help, the two most popular methods in the UK are the Pill and male condom.

Vasectomy and female sterilisation are popular with people who don't want any more children, but they have become more difficult to obtain free under the cash-strapped NHS.

A lot of people now get these operations from contraception charities such as Marie Stopes (£990 for female sterilisation, £395 for vasectomy).

What about new forms of contraception? Are they likely?

It is probable that new methods of contraception such as the vaginal ring will soon become available. However, the much hyped 'male Pill' is unlikely to be on the market within the next few years.

Further information

If you've more questions, talk to a nurse or doctor who's been specially trained in contraception – eg at a family planning clinic, Brook Advisory Centre for young people or GP surgery.

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