17/11/2025
How to Choose the Best Family Planning Method for YOU
Choosing a family planning method isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best option depends on your health, lifestyle, goals, and comfort level. Here’s how to figure out what fits you not your friend, sister, or neighbor.
1. Start With Your Goals
Ask yourself:
👉Do I want to avoid pregnancy for now, a few years, or long-term?
👉Do I want a method I don’t have to think about daily?
👉Do I want children someday or no children at all?
YOUR GOALS HELP NARROW DOWN THE CHOICES:
👉Short-term: Cöndøms, pills, patches, rings
👉Mid-term (3–5 years): Implants, hormonal IUDs
👉Long-term/permanent: Copper IUD, tubal ligation, vasectomy
2. Consider Your Lifestyle
Think about your habits:
👉Not great at remembering daily tasks? Implant or IUD
👉Prefer hormone-free options? → Copper IUD, condoms, fertility awareness
👉Want protection from STIs? → Cöndøms are the only method that helps.
3. Factor in Your Health
Health history matters. Some methods aren’t recommended for:
👉Migraines with aura
👉High bløød pressure
👉Certain heart conditions
👉Smøking + age over 35
👉History of bløød clots
If any apply, non-estrogen methods (e.g., mini-pill, IUD, implant) may be safer.
4. Think About Side Effects
Every method has possible disadvantage and advantage
👉Hormonal options: lighter periods, but possible spØtting, mood changes, or breast tenderness
👉Copper IUD: long-lasting, hormone-free, but may cause heavier periods initially
👉Implant: super effective, but may cause irregular blëëding
Consider what you’re comfortable with.
5. Consider Your Body and Preferences
Some questions to reflect on:
👉Are you okay with a device inside your uterus or arm?
👉Do you prefer something you control yourself?
👉Are cost, insurance coverage, or accessibility factors?
6. Talk With a Health Professional
A provider can:
👉Review your health history
👉Help compare options
👉Answer questions about insertion, removal, effectiveness, and side effects
👉They can personalize the choice so you feel confident and informed.
7. Don’t Forget: You Can Change Your Mind
Family planning is flexible. If a method doesn’t feel right switch! You deserve a method that supports your comfort, health, and goals.
©️ Nurse maraJane 💖