Contraceptive advice & services

Whether you're new to using birth control or you just want to change your existing method, the best place to ask for contraceptive advice is by your trusted gynaecologist. There are many options available and a lot of misinformation surrounding contraception- Dr Magopa will be able to advise you on the safest options, suited to your specific health needs.

Dr Magopa provides the following contraception options:

  • Loop/IUD contraceptive: Dr Magopa will insert a small T-shaped device into the vagina. The plastic version releases hormones to prevent egg implantation, while the copper ones give off ions that kill off sperm but no hormones, meaning there are no hormonal side-effects. It's immediately reversible if you decide to get pregnant. There is, however, a possibility of cramping during insertion and the slight risk of infection.
  • Implant contraceptive: In this method, synthetic progesterone is released from a small rod inserted below the skin of your upper arm, preventing ovulation. It has minimal side effects; it is quickly reversible and lasts up to three years. The possible side effect is irregular bleeding.
  • The contraceptive pill: Synthetic progesterone and oestrogen prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus to block sperm.

There are two types of birth control pills:

  • Progestin-only pills: these have only one kind of hormone (progestin) - these pills don’t have any estrogen. You must take these pills within the same 3 hours every day to be protected from pregnancy.
  • Combination pills: These are the most common type of birth control pill. They contain two hormones: estrogen and progestin. Take one pill every day to be protected from pregnancy. It is not necessary to take your combination pill at the same time every day.
  • There are possible side effects with taking the pill, including nausea, bloating, spotting and breast tenderness. However, there are also advantages to taking the pill; for example, it can help treat mild to moderate acne, severe PMS, lighten menstrual flow and regulate irregular periods and reduce menstrual cramps.