Two basic groups of contraceptive methods can be distinguished: those based on hormones and those blocking the contact between spermatozoids and egg cells.
Combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC) contain synthetic oestrogen with a synthetic progestin that inhibits ovulation. Their use confers a small increase in the absolute risk of venous thromboembolism. CHC have, however, important additional benefits.
Progestins show no increased VTE risk. They can be used in different forms (oral pills, injections, IUDs, Implants). IUDs and implants are long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCS)
The copper IUD is highly effective and available in different shapes, dosages of copper release, duration of actions, etc. Barrier methods and natural family planning methods are less effective than CHC and LARCs. Family planning professionals have to know the efficacy, health risks, side effects, additional benefits of each method as well as the medical eligibility criteria to help the individual woman to find the method that best suits her medical profile and her needs.
