🛡️ Men's Health

Contraception Options

Understanding your choices — effectiveness, safety, and what fits your life.

Contraception is one of the most important reproductive health decisions a woman makes. Nigeria has one of the world's highest rates of unintended pregnancy — largely driven by limited access to information and contraception. This guide explains the options available in Lagos in plain language.

Signs and Symptoms

✓ No symptoms — contraception is a health choice, not a treatment

✓ Some methods affect period frequency and flow

✓ Side effects vary significantly between methods and individuals

✓ The right method depends on your health, lifestyle, and reproductive plans

Risk Factors

Combined pill — not suitable for women who smoke and are over 35, have migraines with aura, high blood pressure, or history of blood clots
IUD insertion — more discomfort in women who have never been pregnant
Hormonal methods — may not be suitable for women with certain breast conditions or liver disease
No hormonal method protects against STIs — condoms needed for infection prevention

When to Seek Help

RoutineFor contraception counselling — to choose the method that fits your health, plans, and preferences. We offer non-judgemental advice.

SoonIf your current method is causing side effects — there are many alternatives. Do not just stop without a replacement.

NowUnprotected sex in the last 72 hours and pregnancy not desired — emergency contraception is effective and available. See your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Tests & Diagnosis

🧪 Blood Pressure Check

Required before starting combined hormonal contraception — high BP is a contraindication to oestrogen-containing methods.

🧪 Pregnancy Test

Before starting any hormonal method or fitting an IUD — to confirm you are not already pregnant.

🧪 STI Screen

Recommended before IUD insertion if at risk — to reduce the risk of pelvic infection from insertion.

🧪 Medical History Review

Migraines, blood clots, liver disease, breast lumps, and smoking status all affect which methods are appropriate.

Treatment Options

Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill

99%+ effective when taken correctly. Regulates periods, reduces cramps. Not suitable for smokers over 35 or those with migraine with aura. Must be taken daily.

Progestogen-Only Pill (Mini-Pill)

99%+ effective. Safe for breastfeeding, smokers, and women who cannot take oestrogen. Must be taken at the same time every day.

Injectable Contraception (Depo-Provera)

99%+ effective. Given every 3 months. No daily pill. May cause irregular bleeding. Fertility takes several months to return after stopping.

Implant (Nexplanon)

>99% effective. Small rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm. Works for 3 years. Most women have lighter or no periods. Excellent reliability.

Copper IUD (Non-Hormonal)

>99% effective. No hormones. Works for 5–10 years. Can also be used as emergency contraception within 5 days.

Hormonal IUS (Mirena)

>99% effective. Reduces or stops periods in many women. Works for 5 years. Good choice for women with heavy periods.

Condoms

85–98% effective with consistent correct use. The ONLY method that also protects against STIs including HIV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does contraception cause infertility?

No. All reversible contraception methods allow fertility to return after stopping — some immediately (IUD, pill), some after a few months (Depo injection).

Will the pill cause weight gain?

Modern low-dose pills have minimal effect on weight. Some women notice fluid retention in the first 1–2 months which resolves.

Can unmarried women access contraception confidentially in Lagos?

Yes. Medical care is confidential regardless of marital status. You do not need a partner's consent or presence.

What is the most effective method?

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) — IUD and implant — are the most effective methods (>99%) because they remove the possibility of user error.

What if I want to get pregnant in the near future?

The pill, mini-pill, implant, and IUD all allow fertility to return quickly after stopping. The injection (Depo) delays return of fertility for several months.