Hormonal contraception
Consultations, method selection, and long-term follow-up for every form of hormonal contraception.
Hormonal contraception as an informed choice, not just a prescription
The right contraceptive method depends on your stage of life, medical history, and personal priorities. The consultation is there to walk through your options, explain how each one works, and pick the method that fits your situation today.
OpenMedical coordinates the consultation with a partner gynaecologist, the related work-up, and the follow-up visits. The prescription itself, and the insertion of an intrauterine system when relevant, are done by the treating gynaecologist. We arrange the appointment, make sure the plan is clearly explained, and keep the next steps organised.
There is no pressure attached to the visit. If a current method is not working, it can be changed; if you want to stop contraception for a planned pregnancy, we cover that transition with you as well.
Understanding your options
Before a decision is made, it helps to understand how each form of hormonal contraception works and what to realistically expect from it.
- How hormonal methods compare to non-hormonal alternatives
- How each form works: oral (COC, POP), transdermal, vaginal ring, injectable, implant, and intrauterine hormonal contraception
- Efficacy, benefits, and the most common side effects of each method
- Effect on the cycle, bleeding pattern, libido, weight, and mood
- Contraindications and risk factors such as smoking, migraine with aura, prior thromboembolism, or elevated blood pressure
Selecting and starting hormonal contraception: oral, injectable, intrauterine
Method choice follows the initial assessment and your own preferences. The goal is to match efficacy, tolerability, and a routine that fits everyday life.
- Initial gynaecology consultation and detailed history
- Pre-prescription work-up: blood pressure, BMI, and lab tests if indicated
- Joint method selection based on life stage, pregnancy planning, and clinical profile
- First prescription for oral or injectable forms and a clear dosing schedule
- Guidance on what to do if a dose is missed and on the next steps
Intrauterine hormonal contraception: insertion
The hormonal intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) is a long-acting option with a low local hormonal dose and high efficacy. Insertion is performed in a single visit with a partner gynaecologist.
- Consultation on LNG-IUS suitability based on history, parity, and uterine size
- Ultrasound assessment before insertion
- The procedure itself, expected duration, analgesia options, and what to expect afterwards
- Follow-up check at one to three months and ongoing long-term monitoring
- Option for earlier removal or scheduled replacement
Long-term use and switching methods
Contraception is rarely a one-off decision. Needs shift over time and the method should be able to shift with them.
- Regular check-ins and review of long-term tolerability
- Switching methods when the current form no longer fits
- Managing side effects: spotting, discomfort, mood changes, reduced libido
- Moving between forms (for example oral to intrauterine) without a gap in protection
- Stopping contraception for a planned pregnancy and preconception follow-up