4.1. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of different contraception methods

This guide will help you answer 4.1. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of different contraception methods.

Contraception means methods used to prevent pregnancy. These methods work in different ways. Some work by stopping sperm from reaching an egg. Others stop the egg from being released. Some change the lining of the womb so a fertilised egg cannot implant.

Workers supporting children and young people need to understand contraception so they can give accurate information in a safeguarding or health education role. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each method helps to provide balanced advice without judgement.

Male Condom

A male condom is a thin sheath worn over the penis during sex. It stops sperm entering the vagina. It is made from latex or other materials such as polyurethane for those who have latex allergies.

Advantages:

• Easy to get from shops, chemists, clinics or some health services for free
• Simple to use
• Protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• No medical side effects for most users
• Only needed during sex, not every day
• No prescription required

Disadvantages:

• Can split or slip off
• Must be used correctly every time
• Some people have allergic reactions to latex
• Can reduce sensation for some users
• Interrupts sex to put on

Female Condom

A female condom is a soft pouch worn inside the vagina. It creates a barrier to sperm. It is made of polyurethane or nitrile.

Advantages:

• Can be put in before sex
• Protects against STIs
• No hormonal side effects
• Can be used if male partner will not wear a condom
• Available without prescription

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than male condoms
• Can be tricky to insert at first
• Can move during sex and cause discomfort
• Not as widely available as male condoms

Oral Contraceptive Pill

The pill contains hormones that stop ovulation. It is taken daily. There are two main types: the combined pill (oestrogen and progestogen) and the mini pill (progestogen only).

Advantages:

• Very effective when taken correctly
• Makes periods lighter and less painful
• Can reduce acne for some users
• Can be used long term
• Does not interrupt sex

Disadvantages:

• Can have side effects such as nausea, headaches or breast tenderness
• Does not protect against STIs
• Must be taken at the same time every day
• Missed pills lower effectiveness
• Some health conditions mean it is unsafe for use

Contraceptive Patch

A patch sticks to the skin and releases hormones. It is changed weekly for three weeks, then a break is taken for one week.

Advantages:

• No need to take daily pills
• Hormones are absorbed through skin
• Regulates menstrual cycle
• Works well if used correctly

Disadvantages:

• Can cause skin irritation
• Visible on the skin for those who prefer privacy
• May have side effects like headaches or mood changes
• No protection from STIs
• Must be remembered weekly

Contraceptive Injection

An injection of progestogen is given by a health professional every 8 or 12 weeks.

Advantages:

• Long lasting
• No need to remember daily or weekly contraception
• Can be used when oestrogen is not suitable
• Very reliable

Disadvantages:

• Can cause irregular bleeding or no periods
• Side effects may last until injection wears off
• Cannot be removed once given
• Fertility can take time to return after stopping
• No STI protection

Contraceptive Implant

A small flexible rod placed under the skin of the arm. It releases progestogen for up to three years.

Advantages:

• Very effective
• Works for years without daily action
• Can be removed at any time
• Suitable for those who cannot use oestrogen
• No interruption to sex

Disadvantages:

• Requires a trained professional to insert and remove
• Can cause irregular bleeding
• May have side effects such as mood changes or weight gain
• No STI protection

Intrauterine Device (IUD or Coil)

A small T-shaped device placed in the womb. It releases copper which stops sperm from surviving.

Advantages:

• Works immediately
• Effective for 5 to 10 years
• Non-hormonal option
• No daily or weekly action needed
• Can be used during breastfeeding

Disadvantages:

• Does not protect against STIs
• Periods may be heavier and more painful
• Fitting can be uncomfortable
• Rare risk of device moving or falling out
• Must be fitted and removed by a trained professional

Intrauterine System (IUS)

Similar to the IUD but releases progestogen. Prevents pregnancy for 3 to 5 years.

Advantages:

• Makes periods lighter or stop altogether
• Long lasting
• Highly effective
• Suitable for women who cannot use oestrogen

Disadvantages:

• Hormonal side effects can occur
• Needs fitting and removal by a professional
• Does not protect against STIs

Diaphragm or Cap

A soft dome-shaped device placed in the vagina to cover the cervix. Used with spermicide to kill sperm.

Advantages:

• Can be put in before sex
• Non-hormonal
• Can be reused for two years if cared for properly
• No need for daily use

Disadvantages:

• Must be used every time during sex
• Can be awkward to insert correctly
• Causes irritation for some users
• Less effective than some other methods
• No STI protection

Emergency Contraception

Used after unprotected sex. Options include emergency contraceptive pills or having an IUD fitted within 5 days.

Advantages:

• Gives a second chance to prevent pregnancy after an accident or unprotected sex
• Pills easy to access from pharmacies or clinics
• IUD is most effective if fitted in time

Disadvantages:

• Pills work less well the longer you wait
• Can cause temporary side effects like nausea
• Not intended for regular use
• Some people feel embarrassed asking for it

Natural Methods

These include tracking fertile days in the menstrual cycle, withdrawing before ejaculation, and breastfeeding as contraception.

Advantages:

• No medical or hormonal side effects
• Low cost
• Can increase awareness of body rhythms

Disadvantages:

• Less reliable than medical methods
• Requires careful tracking and understanding of fertility signs
• Does not protect against STIs
• Does not work well if periods are irregular

Sterilisation

A permanent method. For women this involves blocking or sealing fallopian tubes. For men it is the cutting or sealing of the tubes that carry sperm.

Advantages:

• Permanent
• No ongoing cost or action
• Very reliable

Disadvantages:

• Not reversible easily
• Requires a surgical procedure
• Small risk of complications
• Does not protect against STIs

Choosing a Method

Choice depends on personal health, lifestyle, and preferences. For example, people who do not want to take daily pills may prefer implants or injections. Those wanting STI protection should choose condoms. Those who have finished having children may consider sterilisation. Access to healthcare and cost can also influence the decision.

It is important to remember that contraception effectiveness depends on correct and consistent use. Health professionals should be consulted where needed so personal needs and safety can be checked.

Final Thoughts

Understanding contraception methods helps give accurate support about sexual health. Each method has strong points and weaker points. There is no single best choice for everyone. The right method depends on health, relationships, and personal comfort.

For workers in early years and playwork roles, speaking about contraception may happen in a safeguarding context or through health promotion in schools and youth settings. Giving balanced information without judgement helps young people make informed choices. Knowing these advantages and disadvantages in detail means your advice can help them consider both protection against pregnancy and protection against STIs.