What is contraception? It's the means used by a man or a woman to avoid an unwanted pregnancy. There are a number of them, and inevitably one that's right for you.
When it comes to contraception, there are a number of different methods:
- Barrier methods, including condoms, IUDs (e.g. copper coil), spermicides, cervical cap and diaphragm;
- Hormonal methods (estrogen-progestin), including the estrogen-progestin pill, the patch and the vaginal ring;
- Hormonal (progestin-only) methods, including the progressive pill, implant and hormonal IUD;
- Injections;
- Natural methods, including abstinence, birth control and withdrawal;
- Definitive methods: vasectomy for men and tubal ligation for women;
- Emergency contraception.
Contraceptive Care : Discover our new range of contraceptive care products in your online organic pharmacy.
Contraception is the use of all techniques and devices to control and prevent unwanted pregnancy. Pill, IUD, condom, patch... Take a look at our range of contraceptives and find the one that's right for you.
The different contraceptive methods
Barrier methods
These methods create a physical or chemical barrier preventing sperm from reaching the egg.
- Condoms: Available for both men and women, they are the only devices that also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Easy to use and affordable, they are a reliable option for temporary contraception.
- IUD (Intra-Uterine Device): Also known as an IUD, it can be either hormonal or copper. The copper IUD acts as a natural spermicide, while the hormonal IUD releases progestin hormones to prevent fertilization.
- Spermicides: these chemical substances destroy or neutralize spermatozoa. Often used in conjunction with other barrier methods.
- Cervical cap and diaphragm: These devices are placed at the entrance to the uterus to prevent sperm penetration. They can be reused after cleaning.
Hormonal methods
These methods modify the woman's hormonal balance to prevent ovulation or make the uterine environment inhospitable to sperm.
- Estrogen-progestin pill: a daily dose combining estrogen and progestin to inhibit ovulation.
- Contraceptive Patch: Placed on the skin, it releases hormones continuously for a week.
- Vaginal Ring: Inserted into the vagina, it releases hormones over a three-week cycle.
Progestin-only methods
Exclusively progestin-based, they are suitable for women who cannot use contraceptives containing estrogen.
- Progestin-only pill: Must be taken at the same time every day for optimum efficacy.
- Contraceptive Implant: A small rod inserted under the skin of the arm, effective for 3 years.
- Hormonal IUD: Releases progestins to prevent implantation and reduce menstrual pain.
Injections
A long-term contraceptive method consisting of an injection of progestogen hormones every 3 months. Particularly suitable for women who find it difficult to take the pill every day.
Natural methods
Based on knowledge and monitoring of menstrual cycles.
- Abstinence: Avoid all sexual relations during fertile periods.
- Birth control methods: Use tools such as basal body temperature or observation of cervical secretions.
- Withdrawal: Involves withdrawing the penis before ejaculation, although this method is not very reliable.
Definitive methods
For people wishing to use permanent contraception.
- Vasectomy: Surgical procedure to block the vas deferens in men.
- Tubal ligation: Operation to block the fallopian tubes in women.
Emergency Contraception
Used after unprotected intercourse or in the event of contraceptive failure (torn condom, forgotten pill).
- Morning-after pill: Must be taken within 72 hours of intercourse.
- Copper IUD: Can be inserted up to 5 days after high-risk intercourse.
Advantages of contraception
- Family planning: Allows you to choose the ideal time to have a child.
- Sexual health: Protects against STIs (with condoms) and reduces certain gynecological risks.
- Practicality: Short-, medium- and long-term options to suit every lifestyle.
Choosing the right contraception
Choosing a contraceptive method depends on a number of factors:
- Lifestyle: Some methods, such as implants or IUDs, are better suited to an active lifestyle.
- State of health: Contraindications may exist, particularly for hormonal contraceptives.
- Desired duration: Methods range from occasional use (condoms) to long-term use (IUDs or vasectomy).
- Accessibility: Some methods require a medical prescription or regular medical follow-up.
In our online pharmacy, you'll find a wide range of contraceptive products: pills, condoms, IUDs, patches and more. We offer solutions to suit every need, to help you manage your reproductive health.
Make the right choice for your contraception and enjoy the peace of mind it brings.
What sexuality products can I find on the Soin-et-Nature website?
Soin-et-Nature offers a selection of products dedicated to sexuality, combining comfort, safety and natural solutions to meet intimate needs. Here are the main categories available:
These sexual products, available on Soin-et-Nature, allow you to enjoy your intimacy in complete safety and serenity, while favouring natural solutions adapted to your needs.
