Contraception

The Slievemore Clinic provides a comprehensive contraceptive service. There are many contraceptive methods available and different methods suit different people at different times of their lives. The Slievemore Clinic will discuss the various options available with you to allow you to choose the one that is best for you and your partner.

The Combined Pill combines two hormones, oestrogen and progestogen. Tests show that for every 100 women who take the pill correctly for one year, less than one will get pregnant. It is a prescription drug requiring regular surgery reviews.

The Progestogen-Only Pill These are pills which have progestogen only and no oestrogen. Tests show that for every 100 women who take the progestogen-only pill very carefully and consistently, one will get pregnant in a year. The progestogen-only pill is a possible alternative for older women or others who cannot use the combined pill. It is suitable for women who are breastfeeding as it does not reduce the milk flow.

Injectable Contraception Only one type is available in Ireland, it is called Depo-Provera. This contains a similar hormone to that in the progestogen-only pill. It can also be used by women who cannot use other methods of hormonal contraception. One injection gives 12 weeks protection.

Contraceptive Patch Evra is a contraceptive patch which is applied every week for three consecutive weeks out of four. When used correctly it is as reliable as the oral contraceptive pill, that is over 99 per cent effective.

Mirena Coil Dr Georgina Connellan offers a mirena coil service.

Emergency Contraception If you have had sex and did not use contraception, or if you think your contraception did not work you can use emergency contraception (often referred to as the "morning after pill"). If you act quickly, emergency contraception will usually prevent pregnancy. Emergency contraception is only available by prescription. All the advice and treatment you receive is confidential. Emergency contraceptive pills contain a progestogen hormone which is similar to the natural progesterone women produce in their ovaries. It should be started within three days (72 hours) of having unprotected sex but it is more effective the sooner it is taken.