While most people are aware of common forms of contraception, such as the Pill and condoms, there are many more options available, a number of which provide enhanced protection against pregnancy than their better-known counterparts. So what is the best contraception method?
Finding out about these other options can be difficult, particularly if you don’t have a regular GP you can approach for advice. This is where My Best Fit — Marie Stopes online contraception adviser — can help you find out more about how the various methods of contraception work and decide which one suits you and your lifestyle.
You can explore and compare different options by browsing through the contraception methods or you can take the My Best Fit quiz, which takes you through a series of questions about your age and gender, your situation, and what you want from contraception, to establish which options best suit your needs.
Both men and women can take the quiz, although the non-permanent contraceptive options for men are limited to condoms and withdrawal, with the latter not recommended, as it is extremely unreliable as a way to prevent unplanned pregnancy and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Vasectomy — the permanent form of contraception for men — is, however, an option for men who have already completed their family or who have decided not to have children.
You can also take the quiz with your partner and both be part of the decision as to which contraception works best in the context of your relationship.
For women, My Best Fit identifies a number of options, taking into account your age, whether you would prefer a long-acting contraception and if you are comfortable with injections, implants or a minor surgical procedure. The quiz then asks you if you suffer from a range of medical conditions and if you are taking specific drugs.
Once you have completed these questions, the contraceptive options that fit your criteria are presented to you from best to least fitting, outlining the pros and cons for you based on your answers to the quiz. More detailed information about each method is also supplied, so you can thoroughly research and understand each of your options, including effectivity and any side-effects.
My Best Fit is a great way of learning about and understanding the range of contraceptives available to Australian women and men. Once you have completed the quiz and considered your options, you can find out more about the contraception services offered at Marie Stopes by visiting our contraception page, or call us on 1300 003 707 to make an appointment.