Contraception: every method, compared and explained

Every method side by side, what to do when a pill is missed or late, and where to get emergency contraception. Ruva’s estimates are never contraception.

7 min read A late ring, patch or injection: what to do What to do if your ring came out, your patch came off or your injection is late, why it matters when, and when to ask about emergency contraception.
6 min read Bleeding on hormonal contraception: withdrawal bleeds, spotting and no bleeding Why the bleed in a pill, patch or ring break differs from a period, what each method tends to do to bleeding, and what a clinician checks first.
4 min read Coils: the copper IUD and hormonal IUS Compare copper and hormonal coils, how they are fitted, how long they last, bleeding changes and when to get the threads checked.
4 min read Condoms and other barrier methods How external and internal condoms, diaphragms and caps work, with practical advice on lubricant, latex and where to get help.
4 min read Contraception methods compared Compare hormones, how well each method works and STI protection, with UK and US figures kept separate. Includes when to get help, with UK and US notes.
4 min read Emergency contraception: your options Compare the copper IUD and emergency pills, when to get help, how medicines can affect them, and when to test for pregnancy.
4 min read Missed or late pills Find the right help after a missed pill, and why your pill type, place in the pack, vomiting and diarrhoea all matter. Includes when to get help.
4 min read Natural family planning and fertility awareness What fertility awareness involves, why you need training, how well it works, and why a period app is not contraception. Includes when to get help.
5 min read Sterilisation and vasectomy How permanent contraception works, what to talk about before surgery, and why a vasectomy needs a follow-up test. Neither procedure protects against STIs.
4 min read Switching or stopping contraception Plan a change of contraception, cover any gaps between methods, and talk about fertility returning, bleeding and symptoms.
4 min read The combined pill, patch and ring How combined contraception works, who may need a different option, and which symptoms need urgent care. You still need condoms for protection against STIs.
4 min read The implant and the injection Compare how long the implant and injection last, bleeding changes, bone health and how soon fertility returns after each.
4 min read The progestogen-only pill Learn about the types of mini pill, their different rules for late pills, changes to bleeding, and using it while breastfeeding.
6 min read Periods after stopping the pill and other methods What to expect after you stop the pill, patch, ring, implant, hormonal coil or injection, when fertility returns, and when to see a GP.

Written by the Ruva team from the sources listed in each guide. They aren’t medical advice. If you’re worried about a symptom, talk to a doctor, nurse or pharmacist.