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. Veya’s estimates are never contraception.

4 min read Coils: the copper IUD and hormonal IUS Compare copper and hormonal coils, fitting, duration, bleeding changes and when to get threads checked. Includes when to get help, with UK and US notes.
4 min read Condoms and other barrier methods How external and internal condoms, diaphragms and caps work, with practical advice on lubricant, latex and getting help.
4 min read Contraception methods compared Compare hormones, effectiveness and STI protection, with UK and US figures kept separate. Condoms can add STI protection alongside another contraceptive method.
4 min read Emergency contraception: your options Compare the copper IUD and emergency pills, when to seek help, medicine interactions and pregnancy testing afterwards. Includes when to get help.
4 min read Missed or late pills Find the right help after a missed pill, including why the product, pack position, vomiting and diarrhoea matter. Includes when to get help.
4 min read Natural family planning and fertility awareness What fertility awareness involves, why training matters, how effectiveness varies and why a period app is not contraception.
5 min read Sterilisation and vasectomy How permanent contraception works, what to discuss before surgery and why vasectomy needs follow-up confirmation. Neither procedure protects against STIs.
4 min read Switching or stopping contraception Plan a change of contraception, cover gaps between methods and discuss returning fertility, bleeding and symptoms. Includes when to get help.
4 min read The combined pill, patch and ring How combined contraception works, who needs a different option, and which symptoms need urgent care. Condoms are still needed for STI protection.
4 min read The implant and the injection Compare duration, bleeding changes, bone health and return of fertility with the implant and injection. Both methods can change bleeding patterns.
4 min read The progestogen-only pill Learn about mini-pill types, different late-pill rules, bleeding changes and breastfeeding. The progestogen-only pill contains no oestrogen.
6 min read Periods after stopping the pill and other methods What to expect after stopping the pill, patch, ring, implant, hormonal coil or injection, including returning fertility and when to see a GP.

Written by the Veya 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.