Contraception

Choosing a contraceptive method is an important decision: an option that does not suit a woman's lifestyle is likely to be used incorrectly or inconsistently, leading to the consequence of an unplanned pregnancy.

Knowledge of contraception is essential throughout a woman’s lifetime, commencing at puberty until menopause. A method that is not safe for a woman can have serious medical complications.

An ideal contraceptive should be sufficient and safe. It should not require daily attention or frequent visits to a doctor or clinic, and it should also have minimum complications.

The different types of contraceptive methods are readily available, but at the end of the day, it is down to the woman to choose which method of contraception would be best for her. Dr Tshikosi has a particular interest in this field and can guide women to achieve their ultimate goal.

Dr Tshikosi provides contraceptive advice to help women to choose a method they feel most comfortable with, taking into account their lifestyle preferences and concerns.Dr Tshikosi also offers reversal of sterilization for patient's who regret sterilization and still want natural conception. Please consult Dr Tshikosi to find out more about sterilisation reversal.

Types of contraception

Dr Tshikosi offers the following types of contraception:

Birth control pills

There are two types of birth control pills:

• Progestin-only pills: These contain only progestin and exclude estrogen. These pills are taken within the same 3 hours every day to prevent pregnancy.
• Combination pills: These contain two hormones: estrogen and progestin. You take one pill every day to prevent pregnancy. It is not necessary to take your combination pill at the same time every day.

IUDs

An Intrauterine device (IUD) is a small device that is placed in your uterus to interrupt the process of insemination. IUD prevents pregnancy by stopping the sperm from reaching the eggs and fertilising them. There are many types of IUCDs, and they come in different sizes and shapes and sizes. The most commonly used type is the copper IUD.

Implanon

The contraceptive implant (Implanon) is a soft plastic stick, about 4 cm long. The implant slowly releases progestogen, a type hormone into your body. The implant is inserted or injected under the skin of your inner upper arm. Dr Tshikosi uses a local anaesthetic so that you will not feel any pain when this is happening.