Birth Control Methods

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC)

LARC methods are the most effective reversible options. With typical use, the first-year pregnancy rate is below 1%. There is less room for user error because once in place, there is nothing to remember every day. Fertility usually returns quickly after removal.

Types of IUD

• Gold IUD (GoldLuna and similar)

  A gold-alloy form of the copper IUD. A gold core is added beneath the copper surface. The aim is to reduce oxidation of the copper and lower the risk of breakage. It is hormone-free. At SoftCare, the gold IUD is our first choice when an IUD is chosen. It is generally effective for 5 years. The Pearl index is about 0.3–0.8. It may make periods heavier in the first 2–3 months. The risk of allergy may be lower than with pure copper.

  Method page →

• Copper IUD

  The classic copper form. Effective for 5–10 years. It can also be used as emergency contraception. It may make periods heavier.

  Method page →

• Hormonal IUD

  Releases levonorgestrel. Effective for 3–8 years. It reduces or can stop menstrual bleeding. It may cause hormonal side effects.

  Method page →

Before IUD insertion, a pregnancy test, infection screening and measurement of the uterus are done. It can also be placed in women who have never given birth; local anesthesia or sedation options are discussed. Spotting and cramps may occur in the first months. String checks and ultrasound follow-up are planned. Removal is done in the clinic.

Contraceptive implant

• Placed under the skin of the inner upper arm.
• Effective for 3 years.
• Releases a progestin.
• May cause irregular bleeding or stop periods.
• Removal is done under local anesthesia.

LARC methods can also be used while breastfeeding. The hormonal IUD and the implant do not affect breastfeeding. Copper and gold IUDs are hormone-free, so they are a safe choice during breastfeeding. At SoftCare, a postpartum IUD is inserted no earlier than 8 weeks after delivery.

Short-acting hormonal methods

These methods require you to remember something daily or monthly, so there is a risk of forgetting. With typical use, the first-year pregnancy rate is about 6–9%.

• Combined pill (estrogen + progestin)

  Taken at the same time every day. It suppresses ovulation and thickens cervical mucus. It regulates periods and reduces bleeding. It is assessed carefully in smokers over 35 and in women with migraine with aura, a history of thrombosis, or high blood pressure. Fertility returns quickly after stopping.

  Method page →

• Progestin-only pill

  Suitable for women who cannot use estrogen or who are breastfeeding. It must be taken at the same time every day. It may cause irregular bleeding.

  Method page →

• Monthly or 3-monthly injection

  Given at a healthcare facility. Periods may stop. Bone density is monitored with long-term use.

  Method page →

• Vaginal ring

  Worn for 3 weeks, removed for 1 week. Effectiveness similar to the pill.

  Method page →

• Transdermal patch

  Changed weekly. Effectiveness similar to the pill.

  Method page →

Before starting a hormonal method, we ask about blood pressure, smoking and any family history of thrombosis. A Pap smear and HPV test are planned if needed. If a pill is missed, emergency contraception is discussed.

Barrier methods

Barrier methods stop sperm from reaching the uterus. Only condoms provide meaningful protection against STIs.

• Condom (male)

  A new one is used for every act of sex. Leave space at the tip. With typical use, the pregnancy rate is about 13%. It is the most accessible protection against STIs.

• Diaphragm and cervical cap

  Used together with spermicide. Training on insertion is needed. STI protection is limited.

  Method page →

• Spermicide

  Low effectiveness when used alone. Used together with a barrier method.

  Method page →

If a condom tears or slips off, emergency contraception is considered. If you have a latex allergy, polyurethane condoms are preferred.

Permanent methods

• Tubal ligation

  The fallopian tubes are tied through laparoscopic or open surgery. Reversal is difficult and not always successful. Other options are discussed before making a permanent decision.

  Method page →

• Vasectomy

  A procedure performed on the man. An additional method is used until azoospermia is confirmed by semen analysis.

Permanent methods are suitable for couples with no plans for pregnancy. These procedures require a hospital setting and are not performed at the SoftCare clinic; tubal ligation is scheduled at a partner hospital, and a referral is provided for vasectomy. Before that, LARC alternatives are explained in detail.

Effectiveness comparison (typical use, first-year pregnancy rate)

With perfect use, the rates are lower. With LARC methods, user error is minimal. That is why, at SoftCare, the gold IUD is our first recommendation for those who want long-term protection.

What to consider when choosing a method

• Menstrual pattern and amount of bleeding (with heavy periods, a hormonal IUD or the pill may be preferred)
• Smoking, high blood pressure, migraine with aura, history of thrombosis (the combined pill may be contraindicated)
• Breastfeeding (progestin-only or hormone-free methods)
• Timing of pregnancy plans (short-acting if planned soon, LARC if planned much later)
• STI risk (a condom is added)
• Drug interactions (some antibiotics and antiepileptics may reduce the pill’s effectiveness)
• Uterine abnormality or frequent pelvic infections (an IUD may not be suitable)
• Over 40 (if there are no risk factors, the hormonal IUD and the combined pill can be used up to age 50)

The CDC US MEC 2024 medical eligibility criteria are used. If there is a contraindication, an alternative method is discussed. At SoftCare, a Pap smear, ultrasound and any necessary tests are planned before a decision is made.

Our approach at SoftCare

At SoftCare Clinic, contraceptive counseling starts with your gynecological history and an examination. We ask about your menstrual pattern, pregnancy plans, smoking and any history of thrombosis. When an IUD is chosen, the gold IUD is our first choice; insertion is done in the clinic. Pills and injections are prescribed. Information is given about condoms and emergency contraception. The calendar method is not recommended, and the risk posed by cycle irregularities is clearly explained. If there is an STI risk, testing is planned. Each method’s own page covers use, side effects, follow-up and removal in detail.

Appointments: +90 212 241 30 10 · softcareclinic.com

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References

1. 1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, 2024.
2. 2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Contraception and Birth Control Methods.
3. 3. World Health Organization (WHO). Family planning/contraception methods. Fact sheet.
4. 4. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Long-Acting Reversible Contraception: IUD and Implant.
5. 5. T.C. Sağlık Bakanlığı. Gebeliği Önleyici Yöntemler.
6. 6. Trussell J. Contraceptive failure in the United States. Contraception. 2011;83(5):397–404.
7. 7. Winner B, et al. Effectiveness of long-acting reversible contraception. N Engl J Med. 2012;366:1998–2007.
8. 8. GoldLuna. Hormonfreie Spiralen – FAQ.
9. 9. Eurogine. Gold T RİA teknik özellikleri.
10. Note: Effectiveness rates and medical eligibility criteria are updated by the physician in line with current CDC and WHO guidelines. Prioritizing the gold IUD is a SoftCare clinical preference. This reference list is for information purposes.

A citation does not mean that SoftCare wrote that text.

Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Şükrü Sanus, Obstetrician & Gynecologist · Last medical review: 2 October 2026