Contraception: Know your Options

photo of different kinds of birth control

Quick Facts

  • Almost 40% of pregnancies in Canada are not planned. Most of these happen to people under the age of 241.
  • Using contraception (birth control) correctly and regularly can greatly lower the chance of unplanned pregnancies.
  • Over the 2019-2020 period in Canada, 4 in 5 (79.9%) sexually active women aged 15 to 49 wanting to avoid pregnancy reported that they and their partner used contraception the last time they had sex (in the past 12 months)2. In 2023, on PEI, 20% of women in this age group used prescription contraceptives, which is more than 7,500
  • There are many types of contraceptives, like long-acting reversible contraception (LARCs), hormonal methods, barrier methods, permanent methods, and emergency contraception.
  • LARCs, such as the intrauterine device (IUD) and the contraceptive implant, are the most effective types of prescription contraceptives.
  • You can get contraceptives at pharmacies across PEI—some types need a prescription from a primary care provider or pharmacist, while others can be bought over the counter.
  • Most people use contraception to support pregnancy planning or avoid pregnancy. But it is also important to consider practicing safe sex to avoid Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), especially if you're not in a monogamous relationship. Condoms are the only contraceptive that also reduce the risk of STIs.
  • Some people use contraception for treating specific conditions (e.g., menstrual (period) pain, heavy bleeding, irregular bleeding, acne, perimenopause, endometriosis, adenomyosis, polycystic ovary syndrome).
1The Cost of Unintended Pregnancies (CoUP) in Canada: Estimating Direct Cost, Role of Imperfect Adherence, and the Potential Impact of Increased Use of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives - PMC
2Statistics Canada, (2025). Contraception use among sexually active women wanting to avoid pregnancy
 

The Longer Story

Unplanned pregnancy (pregnancy that is not planned) is common and can be a difficult experience for people of all ages, from adolescence to near menopause.

People under 24 years old have the most unplanned pregnancies in Canada3; however, it can happen at any age until menopause. Unplanned pregnancy in older people can be risky because pregnancy complications increase with age.

Contraception:

  • Supports individuals to have choices about pregnancy planning or avoiding pregnancy;
  • Helps manage chronic conditions, such as acne, menstrual (period) pain, heavy bleeding, irregular bleeding, endometriosis, or perimenopausal symptoms; and
  • Reduces and prevents unplanned pregnancies.

While most people use contraception to support pregnancy planning or avoid pregnancy, it is also important to consider practicing safe sex to avoid sexually transmitted infections (STIs, also referred to as STBBI for Sexually Transmitted Blood-Borne Infections), especially if you're not in a monogamous relationship. Among the various contraceptive methods, only male and female condoms offer dual protection by avoiding pregnancy and preventing STIs.

There are many forms of contraceptives to consider—exactly how they work and how effective they are depends on the method. Most of the following types of contraceptives, when used properly, offer a high effectiveness rate that allows you to engage in sexual activity while reducing the chance of an unplanned pregnancy.

The choice is yours!

Please note: These summaries are for informational purposes only and are not comprehensive. When considering contraception, you should discuss all potential risks and benefits of a medicine, device, or procedure with your healthcare provider to choose the most suitable option for your needs.

When selecting which contraceptive method is right for you, there are many factors to consider:

  • effectiveness of the method*
  • possible side effects
  • ease of use
  • cost**
  • comfort
  • any other health conditions/medications that might affect the contraceptive method
  • your lifestyle
  • age
  • your risk of getting an STI
  • future pregnancy plans
  • access to a medical professional***
  • privacy

*The effectiveness rate assumes typical use, which is the effectiveness of a contraceptive method when used by the average person, including occasional mistakes.

**Many of the prescription contraceptives are covered under the National Pharmacare program and/or private health insurance. But over-the-counter options (e.g., condoms) are all out-of-pocket expenses.

***On PEI, pharmacists can write a prescription for many contraceptive options, except for long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs).

3Canadian Paediatric Society, (2019). Universal access to no-cost contraception for youth in Canada  

Access Points for Contraceptives

When thinking about contraception, it’s advised that you talk with your healthcare provider about all the risks and benefits of each option. This will help you choose the best method for your needs.

Numerous healthcare providers can give advice and prescriptions for contraceptives, including family physicians, nurse practitioners, obstetricians, gynecologists, midwives, and pharmacists. Options for people without a primary care provider can be explored through walk-in clinics, virtual care services, health clinics at post-secondary education campuses (for students and staff), pharmacies, and Sexual Health, Options & Reproductive Services (SHORS) locations.

Many types of contraceptives can be found at pharmacies across PEI. Pharmacists can prescribe and dispense contraceptive pills, the vaginal ring, contraceptive patches, and the contraceptive injection.

However, pharmacists cannot prescribe long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like hormonal IUDs or contraceptive implants. You need a prescription for a LARC from a physician, nurse practitioner or midwife. You’ll also need a trained medical professional to insert the specific form of LARC into your body. On PEI, LARC insertions are done by individual providers (like family doctors, nurse practitioners, and OBGYNs) or at clinics (like SHORS and post-secondary health clinics).

National Pharmacare

In partnership with the Government of Canada, effective May 1st, 2025, the National Pharmacare Program provides coverage for most prescription contraceptives. There is no application required for contraception coverage. Contraceptives included in the National Pharmacare Program are available at no cost for eligible people.

The program covers some:

  • Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUD),
  • Copper IUDs,
  • Contraceptive implants,
  • Oral contraceptives (i.e. Birth control medication),
  • Vaginal rings,
  • Contraceptive injections; and
  • Emergency contraceptives.

Learn more about the National Pharmacare Program.

Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs)

Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are currently considered to be the first line of recommendation. Or in medical terms, LARCs are referred to as the ‘standard of care’. This is because they require little management once inserted, and are long-lasting. LARCs are the only type of contraceptives where the effectiveness rate is the same for both the perfect-use and typical use rate, given how they work—in other words, there is very little human error associated with them that would affect their effectiveness rate.

An IUD is one of the most effective types of contraceptives. It’s a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus. In Canada, the most common models of IUDs can remain inserted between 3 and 10 years.

How They Work: Inserted into the uterus to prevent fertilization

Effectiveness: 99.80% (Typical use failure rate is 0.2% of women during first year of use)

Benefits: Long-lasting (3-10 years), low maintenance

Considerations: Does not protect against STIs; higher up-front cost

Coverage: Most IUDs are available at no-cost under the National Pharmacare program.

Cost Without Coverage: Average cost is approximately $415.00 per unit, which is paid up front, but the device is good for about 5 years

Side Effects: Possible cramping and spotting; pain with placement.

Where to Access: Requires prescription and insertion by a healthcare provider.

IUDs can be hormone or non-hormone based—which you choose will depend on your specific situation.

1. Non-hormonal (copper-based) IUDs: Creates an environment that is hostile for sperm and eggs.

Added benefit: Can also be used as an emergency form of contraception (if implanted within 7 days of unprotected sex)

Side Effects for copper IUD include:

  • Pain for some people when the IUD is put in
  • Heavy or longer periods

2. Hormonal-based IUDs: thicken the mucus lining around the uterus, blocking access to the eggs; some also prevent eggs from leaving the ovaries.

Side Effects for hormonal IUD include:

  • Pain for some people when IUD is put in, cramping or back aches could last a few days after
  • Spotting between periods
  • No period

On PEI, if you don’t have a primary healthcare provider, you can make an appointment with the SHORS clinic for an IUD insertion. If your primary health care provider doesn’t offer IUD insertions, they will be able to refer you elsewhere.

The Contraceptive Implant is another LARC that is super effective. It’s similar to an IUD in that it is a device that is inserted into you; however, instead of being inserted into the uterus, an implant is inserted in your arm. Once inserted, it can remain for up to 3 years. It’s a low maintenance type of contraceptive, as there is no risk of forgetting to take it (like an oral contraceptive) or user error (like with condoms, diaphragms, or vaginal rings). It can be inserted at any point of the menstrual cycle, and should you decide you would like to try to get pregnant, you simply have the implant removed—there are no lasting fertility side effects.

How They Work: Inserted into the arm and releases hormone progestin to stop ovulation.

Effectiveness: 99.95% (Typical use failure rate is 0.05% of women during first year of use).

Benefits: Low maintenance; can use when breastfeeding; can reduce menstrual cramping.

Considerations: Does not protect against STIs; higher up-front cost; Some people find it reassuring to feel the device in their arm.

Coverage: Etonogestrel is available at no-cost under the National Pharmacare program.

Cost Without Coverage: Average cost is approximately $340.00 per unit, which is paid up front, but the device is good for about 3 years.

Side Effects: Irregular bleeding initially and some may experience hormonal side effects (e.g., headaches, breast sensitivity, moodiness). The implant could cause amenorrhea (i.e., don't get a menstrual period), shortened bleeding, and/or persistent spotting.

Where to Access: Requires prescription and insertion by a health care provider.

Note on pain management and LARCs: Inserting a LARC, like an IUD, can cause some discomfort or pain. However, this discomfort is temporary and doesn't last long. Many healthcare providers on PEI have noted that patients might hesitate to consider LARCs due to a lack of awareness about pain management options. The procedure is typically quick (less than 10 minutes), and preparing for the process can help make the procedure smoother and more comfortable. There are various ways to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. Discuss with your healthcare provider the options available for your LARC insertion.

Other Hormonal Contraception

Hormonal contraception uses synthetic hormones to mimic the body's natural estrogen and progesterone, helping to regulate hormone levels throughout a woman's cycle. Hormonal contraception includes injectable contraception, oral contraceptive pill, vaginal ring, and contraceptive patch.

Alongside condoms, 'The Pill' is one of the most commonly thought of contraceptives. On the market since the 1960s, oral contraceptive, which is a hormone-based method, is 91.00% effective at avoiding pregnancy when typically used. If the pill is consistently and perfectly used, it is 99.7% effective in avoiding pregnancy. There are different forms of the pill, each using different hormones or combination of hormones.

How it Works: The contraceptive pill works by tweaking the menstrual cycle to prevent the egg from leaving the ovaries or by thickening the mucus layer around the cervix, blocking access to the egg, or by thinning the lining of the uterus to prevent an egg from attaching there in the first place—how, exactly, the pill works will depend on which one you take.

Effectiveness: 91.00% (Typical use failure rate is 9% of women during first year of use).

Benefits: Highly effective; lighter and more regular menstrual cycle (especially helpful during perimenopause when some people experience heavy or persistent bleeding); can help treat menstrual cramps and migraines; can reduce severity of PMS symptoms; can help treat other medical conditions (e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, uterine fibroids); can help clear up acne; can reduce hot flashes during perimenopause/menopause; some studies show that the pill can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, and colon cancer.

Considerations: Requires a prescription; is subject to human error (forgetting to take it), thereby reducing its effectiveness; does not protect against STIs; might lose effectiveness when mixed with certain medications (e.g., antibiotics); not recommended for those with a history of breast, uterine, or liver cancers; heart attacks; circulation issues; blood clots; high blood pressure; liver disease; severe diabetes; and other medical conditions.

Coverage: Most oral contraceptives are available at no-cost under the National Pharmacare program

Cost Without Coverage: Average cost is over $165.00 per year

Side Effects: Temporary spotting, nausea, breast tenderness, and may also cause mood swings and weight changes. As with any hormone-based treatment, some people experience side effects—like with many medications, these symptoms may fade after a while, or you may need to switch to a different type of pill if they persist and are severe.

Where to Access: Pharmacy (requires a prescription)

A vaginal ring is another hormone-based contraceptive. As its name suggests, it’s a ring-shaped device that is inserted into the vagina. Generally, you wear it for 3 weeks and then remove it for 1 week to allow for your menstrual flow. Some rings are replaced monthly, while others last for a longer period of time.

How it Works: It works by releasing the hormones estrogen and progestin to prevent pregnancy by either stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg or by changing the lining of the cervix to block access to the egg.

Effectiveness: 91.00% (Typical use failure rate is 9% of women during first year of use).

Benefits: Decreases premenstrual symptoms; may reduce menstrual flow and cramps; reduces the risk of fibroids and ovarian cysts; and reduces the risks of endometrial, ovarian, and colon cancers.

Considerations: Does not protect against STIs; Requires remembering to change the ring once per month; requires a prescription; not recommended for those with a history of breast, uterine, or liver cancers; heart attacks; circulation issues; blood clots; high blood pressure; liver disease; severe diabetes; and other medical conditions.

Coverage: Vaginal ring with progestrogen and estrogen are available at no-cost under the National Pharmacare program. Residents may be responsible for a portion of costs for brand name Nuvaring.

Cost Without Coverage: Average upfront cost is approximately $38.00 per unit, which can be $205.00 per year.

Side Effects: Side effects are similar to other hormone-based methods and might fade as your body adapts to wearing the ring, may cause vaginal irritation, discomfort, or discharge.

Where to Access: Pharmacy/health care centre (requires a prescription).

A contraceptive patch is a 4x4 cm beige patch that sticks to the skin and is worn for seven days. A new patch is used each week for three weeks, with the change occurring on the same day each week, known as the 'Patch Change Day.' The fourth week is patch-free, allowing for a menstrual period. The patch should never be off for more than seven days. After the seven patch-free days, a new cycle begins with the application of a new patch on your Patch Change Day.

How it Works: The patch continuously releases estrogen and progestin into the bloodstream, preventing ovulation and may also thicken the cervical mucus and make the uterine lining thin. (Similar to how the Pill works).

Effectiveness: 91.00% (Typical use failure rate is 9% of women during first year of use).

Benefits: May reduce menstrual flow and cramps, decreases premenstrual symptoms, regulates menstrual cycle, reduces risk of fibroids.

Considerations: Does not protect against STIs; may be less effective in those who weigh more than 90 kg (198 pounds); not recommended for those with a history of breast, uterine, or liver cancers; heart attacks; circulation issues; blood clots; high blood pressure; liver disease; severe diabetes; and other medical conditions.

Cost Without Coverage: Average upfront cost is $45.00 for 1-month supply and $105.00 for 3-month supply.

Side Effects: May cause irregular bleeding or spotting, may cause skin irritation, breast tenderness, nausea, or headaches.

Where to Access: Pharmacy/health care centre (requires a prescription)

Contraceptive injection is another contraceptive option. However, healthcare providers discourage this as a long-term option due to the potential risk of osteoporosis. The high progesterone to estrogen ratio is thought to reduce bone mineralization when used for long periods of time before age 30 (peak bone mass). One consideration is that the injection cannot be removed once injected. Some of the side effects of the high dose of progesterone include acne, weight gain, irritability, anger, etc.

How it Works: It works by releasing the hormone progestin to prevent ovulation.

Effectiveness: 94.00% (Typical use failure rate is 6% women during first year of use).

Benefits: No daily requirement; does not require sexual activity to be paused; can reduce menstrual cramping severity; some studies link it to a reduced risk for endometrial cancer.

Considerations: Can take months to ovulate once you stop using it; some users cease to menstruate completely while taking it; not a suitable option for those with various medical conditions; does not protect against STIs; requires a prescription; injections must be administered by a health care professional (doctor, nurse practitioner, or pharmacist) four times a year.

Coverage: Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) is available at no-cost under the National Pharmacare program.

Cost Without Coverage: Average cost is over $195.00 per year.

Side Effects: Irregular bleeding, decrease in bone mineral density, increased appetite, weight gain, some people may have hormonal side effects (e.g., acne, headaches, breast sensitivity, etc.)

Where to Access: Pharmacy/health care centre (requires a prescription).

Non-Hormonal Contraception (Barrier Methods)

These hormone-free methods work by placing a barrier between the sperm and the egg. A condom goes over an erect penis and collects sperm, while a diaphragm is inserted into the vagina, obstructing access to the eggs. They range in effectiveness from 76% (sponge) to 82% (condoms).

When used correctly, condoms can prevent pregnancy most of the time. They are readily available to purchase, but there is a bit of a learning curve to ensure you put them on correctly. Condoms can also expire so it’s important to note the expiration date on the package. Unlike other contraceptives, condoms are the only method that also protects against STIs.

How They Work: A disc-shaped piece of material (rubber, latex) that rolls down over an erect penis, preventing sperm from entering the vagina/

Effectiveness: 82.00% (Typical use failure rate is 18% of women during first year of use).

Benefits: Inexpensive; protects against STIs; various sizes/materials available; low cost per unit; none to few side effects; no prescription required; readily available; long shelf life when stored correctly.

Considerations: Ongoing cost; can break during sex; requires the penis to be erect before use (i.e., sexual acts must pause to apply one); must be manually applied every time you have sex; may be used with other contraception methods to increase their contraceptive effectiveness.

Cost: Average cost is $15.00 to $30.00 per package.

Side Effects: None to few (the most common relates to comfort in terms of sizing and allergies associated with a particular material).

Where to Access: Available over the counter at grocery stores, convenience stores, pharmacies, health centres.

A note about vaginal condoms (sometimes called “female condoms”): Condoms for people with vaginas do exist, and they function the same way: by providing a barrier between the sperm and the eggs. Vaginal condoms do not come in the variety of sizes, materials, and novelty purposes that condoms for the penis do; they are not as readily available; and they cost more than condoms for penises. There is a bit of a learning curve, both inserting into the vagina, and then guiding the penis into the condom. When typically used, they are 79% effective against both pregnancy and STIs. When used perfectly, they are 95% effective for avoiding pregnancy and STIs. Also, they can be inserted hours prior to sex, which means there is no need to pause sexual activity to insert one.

The contraceptive sponge is a small, disposable device made of polyurethane foam that is inserted into the vagina. It covers the cervix to act as a physical barrier, preventing sperm from entering. Additionally, the sponge contains spermicide, which helps to absorb and trap sperm.

How They Work: The spermicide in the sponge is slowly released over a period of 24 hours, absorbing, trapping, and destroying the sperm cell membrane.

Effectiveness: 76.00% to 88.00% (Typical use failure rate is 12% to 24% of women during first year of use).

Benefits: Provides 12-hour protection and does not need to be replaced for repeated sex during this time; offers a barrier method and spermicide in one.

Considerations: Less effective for women who have given birth; only comes in one size; should be left in the vagina for at least 6 hours after last act of intercourse, but remain no more than 30 hours in total; does not protect against STIs; higher failure rate compared to other types of contraception.

Cost: Average cost is $25.00 per unit.

Side Effects: Increases the risk of vaginal and cervical irritation or abrasions.

Where to Access: Available over the counter at pharmacies

The cervical cap is a deep silicone device that fits over the cervix, blocking sperm and bacteria from entering.

How They Work: A cervical cap acts as a physical barrier between the cervix and sperm.

Effectiveness: Lacking data on the effectiveness of the cervical cap and gel that is available in Canada.

Benefits: No hormones and can be used while breastfeeding.

Considerations: Used with a gel that immobilizes or kills sperm; gel must be reapplied after each act of intercourse; does not protect against STIs; higher failure rate compared to other types of contraception.

Cost: Average cost is $90.00 per unit.

Side Effects: Increased risk of recurrent urinary tract infections and toxic shock syndrome.

Where to Access: Available over the counter at pharmacies.

Diaphragms work similarly to vaginal condoms, in that, once inserted into the vagina, they act as a barrier between sperm and eggs. In terms of access, while diaphragms were once popular, they aren’t as readily available in Canada these days.

How They Work: A disc-shaped piece of material (rubber, latex) that is inserted into the vagina, preventing sperm from fertilizing an egg; it needs to be used with a gel that kills or immobilizes sperm.

Effectiveness: Data is lacking on the effectiveness of the diaphragm with the gel that is available in Canada.

Benefits: Can be inserted hours prior to sex (sexual activity does not need to be paused); does not affect the menstrual cycle.

Considerations: Does not protect against STIs; must be worn for hours after sex; need to be replaced every 1–2 years; requires using a special gel/spermicide; some people prone to bladder infections or UTIs might want to choose another form of contraception, as diaphragm use can increase chances of these infections; some people may need to be fitted for one by a medical professional; higher failure rate compared to other types of contraception.

Cost: Average cost is $80.00 to $100.00 per unit.

Side Effects: None to few (the most common relates to comfort in terms of sizing and allergies associated with rubber/latex).

Where to Access: Available over the counter.

Vasectomy/Tubal Ligation

Vasectomy/Tubal Ligation is a way to avoid pregnancy permanently through a medical procedure. Typically, you do need a referral to a specialist, so wait times might factor in your decision.

A vasectomy is a medical procedure where the two vas deferens—the tubes responsible for carrying sperm from the testicles to the urethra—are cut and sealed.

How it Works: Once the procedure is performed, sperm cannot leave the body. The testes still make sperm, but they then die and are absorbed. Any ejaculate that occurs, then, does not contain sperm.

Effectiveness: 98.00% (Typical use failure rate is 2% of people during first year of use).

Benefits: Safe and relatively minor procedure that typically does not require an overnight stay in the hospital, and while there is recovery time associated, most people find they are active and recovered within days of the procedure; long-term to permanent form of contraceptive.

Considerations: Although rare, there have been cases where pregnancy has still occurred; can take up to 3 months for there to be zero sperm in any ejaculated semen, so it’s a good idea to use back-up contraceptives for those first few months; does not protect against STIs; while it is possible to reverse a vasectomy, should your situation change, it’s important to know that not all reversal procedures work—the success rate can vary, depending on how long you wait to reverse the procedure, from 60% to 95%; because of this, if you do think that pregnancy is an option in your future, you may wish to consider a different form of contraception.

Cost: Covered through the provincial health program (if you have a valid PEI Health card, there is no cost for these procedures).

Side Effects: Very few, beyond the initial recovery time (managed by rest and over-the-counter painkillers), possible short-term surgery-related complications (e.g., pain, bleeding, or infection at incision site).

Where to Access: The procedure must be performed in a hospital setting.

Also known as having your “tubes tied,” a tubal ligation is a surgical procedure where the fallopian tubes are cut and tied. It’s a permanent procedure that is highly effective, at more than 99%. The less than 1% occurs in the cases where the tubes have been tied but not removed—it’s rare and when pregnancy does occur, it usually results in an ectopic pregnancy, where the fetus attaches itself outside of the uterus; ectopic pregnancies are unsustainable and can result in life-threatening complications if not removed. When the tubes are removed completely, there is 0% chance of getting pregnant. What type of procedure you get depends on your own personal health history and other factors, which your primary healthcare provider and surgeon can discuss with you.

How it Works: Once the procedure has been performed, the egg is prevented from moving from the ovaries, down to the uterus, and through the fallopian tubes.

Effectiveness: Highly effective, but failure rates vary on which technique is used.

Benefits: Permanent form of contraception; safe and highly effective; some people who could become pregnant appreciate not having to rely on their partner for contraceptives; it can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, as this type of cancer often first develops in the fallopian tubes.

Considerations: Does not protect against STIs; does not affect your menstrual cycle; generally, tubal ligations cannot be reversed, as it involves major surgery with low success rates—procedures where the tubes have been removed completely can never be reversed.

Cost: Covered through the provincial health program (if you have a valid PEI Health card, there is no cost for this procedure).

Side Effects: There are some risks with tubal ligation, as with any surgery, and recovery time can be lengthy.

Where to Access: This procedure must be performed in a hospital.

Emergency Contraception (Plan B)

Emergency contraception is a way to avoid pregnancy after sex has occurred. Emergency contraceptives do not protect against STIs. The most common form is emergency contraceptive pills (commonly known as the “morning after pill”). These must be taken within 3-5 days of unprotected sex. An IUD can also be used as a form of emergency contraception, if inserted within 7 days of unprotected sex.

How it Works: These pills work by either preventing or delaying ovulation (and thereby preventing a sperm’s access to an egg) or by changing the cervical lining and blocking access to the egg that way.

Effectiveness: 99.00% if taken within 3–5 days of unprotected sex.

Benefits: Can protect against pregnancy after the sexual act has occurred.

Considerations: The morning-after pill requires the user to follow the directions exactly in order for it to work; the effectiveness of these pills may decrease with a high body weight.

Coverage: Levonorgestrel products are available at no-cost under the National Pharmacare program. Residents may be responsible for a portion of costs for the brand name Plan B.

Cost Without Coverage: Average cost is $36 per unit.

Side Effects: Some nausea and cramping are typical (generally, these ease after a couple of days)

Where to Access: The morning-after pill is available at most pharmacies (does not require a prescription); an IUD must be inserted by a medical professional.

Note on abortion: If an unplanned pregnancy occurs, abortion is a safe and legal option in PEI. Abortion, like contraception, supports people in having choices about pregnancy planning or avoiding pregnancy. For more information on abortion services, please visit the Health Topic: Abortion.

Natural Methods

Natural contraceptive methods avoid the use of medications or devices to avoid pregnancy. Instead, these methods rely on observing and tracking a woman's menstrual cycle and using specific behaviours to avoid pregnancy. Natural methods – like withdrawal, fertility-awareness based methods, and lactational amenorrhea method – are much less effective than other contraception options. If you would like to explore natural methods, you can refer to the resources in Sex & U and It’s a Plan by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada.

Other Uses of Contraceptives

Contraceptives are primarily used to avoid pregnancy, but they are also prescribed for other purposes.

Hormonal contraceptives, such as contraceptive pills and intrauterine devices (IUDs), are often also used to manage conditions like:

  • Acne: Certain contraceptive pills can help reduce acne by regulating hormones that contribute to skin breakouts.
  • Menstrual Regulation: Hormonal contraceptives can help regulate menstrual cycles, reducing symptoms like heavy bleeding and severe cramps.
  • Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Some contraceptives are used to alleviate the mood swings, bloating, and other symptoms associated with PMS and PMDD.
  • Perimenopause and Menopause Symptoms: Some people find that contraceptives can help manage perimenopause and menopause symptoms such as irregular bleeding, heavy periods, moods, and hot flashes; contraceptives can help ease symptoms regardless of how a person’s cycle was prior to perimenopause or menopause.
  • Endometriosis: Hormonal contraceptives can help manage the pain and symptoms of endometriosis by suppressing the growth of endometrial tissue.

These uses highlight the versatility of contraceptives in addressing a range of health issues beyond pregnancy prevention.

Age Considerations

Choosing the right contraceptive method can depend significantly on a person's age, as different life stages come with varying health needs and lifestyle factors.

  • Teens and Young Adults: Most of the unplanned pregnancies in Canada happen to people under the age of 24. For teenagers and young adults, long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like IUDs and implants are often recommended due to their high effectiveness and ease of use. These methods require minimal maintenance and can last for several years, making them a convenient option.
  • Mid-20s and 30s: The number of women deferring pregnancy to later reproductive years is increasing. During these years, many individuals may prioritize both effectiveness and flexibility. Options like contraceptive pills, patches, and rings are popular as they allow for more control over fertility. LARCs remain a strong choice for those seeking long-term solutions.
  • 40s and Beyond: Unplanned pregnancy in older women could be problematic due to increased obstetrical risks during the late reproductive years. Although fertility declines after age 30, effective contraception is still necessary to avoid pregnancy. It's important to use contraception until menopause is confirmed, as fertility can persist. As individuals approach their 40s, they may need to consider their own health conditions when choosing a contraception method. During the perimenopause period, menstrual cycles can become heavier and people in this age group may choose hormonal IUDS, which can reduce bleeding.

Each age group has unique considerations, and consulting with a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate and safe contraceptive method based on individual health and lifestyle needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use contraceptive pills to skip my period?

Yes, certain contraceptive pills can be used to delay or skip periods. Continuous or extended-cycle pills are designed for this purpose.

Do I need a prescription for all contraceptives?

Not all. Condoms and some emergency contraceptives are available over the counter, while others like oral contraceptives (i.e., pills), patches, and LARCs require a prescription.

Can I get pregnant immediately after stopping contraception?

Fertility can return quickly after stopping most contraceptives. For some, like the injection, it might take a few months.

Do contraceptives protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

Only condoms provide protection against STIs. Hormonal methods and LARCs do not.

What should I do if I miss a contraceptive pill?

Follow the instructions provided with your pill pack. Generally, you should take the missed pill as soon as you remember and continue with the next pill at the usual time.

Are there any long-term health risks associated with contraceptives?

Most contraceptives are safe for long-term use, but some may have risks like increased blood pressure, blood clots, or a slight increase in certain cancer risks. It's important to discuss these with your healthcare provider.

Can I use contraceptives while breastfeeding?

Yes, contraceptives are safe to use while breastfeeding. Progestin-only pills, IUDs, and implants may be the best choice for those who are breastfeeding.

Do older cis women, trans men, nonbinary and gender non-conforming people, and intersex individuals need contraception?

People of all ages with a uterus may need contraception, not just younger cis women. Until menopause is confirmed (12 consecutive months without a period), anyone with a uterus may consider contraception to avoid pregnancy and STIs or to manage other conditions.

Sources

  • Sex & U - Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada: This website provides comprehensive information on various contraception methods to help individuals avoid unplanned pregnancies and make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health.
  • It’s a Plan – Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada: It is an online tool to help people determine the contraception method that is best for them.
  • Knowing Your Rights: Birth Control Options - Native Women’s Association Canada: This document provides information on various contraceptive methods, their effectiveness, benefits, considerations, costs, and potential side effects.