Only total abstinence from sexual contact offers 100% protection from pregnancy and STIs. Almost half of men (45%) and a quarter (26%) of women agreed that drinking alcohol had contributed to them having sex without using contraception. (ICCP, 2004). Be Drink Aware. (www.drinkaware.ie) You may not know if you have an STI. Up to 86% of women and 50% of men with gonorrhoea have no symptoms. (HPSC, 2008) Lots of people do not know when a woman’s most fertile time in her cycle is. Recent research found that only 31% of men and 56% of women knew a woman’s most fertile time. (ISSHR, 2006) Young people aged 20-29 have the highest rate of sexually transmitted infections. (HPSC, 2008) In the space of ten years, there has been a 700% increase in cases of Chlamydia in Ireland. (HPSC, 2008) Practicing ‘Double Dutch’ (using condoms with other methods of contraception) will help you to have safer sex and prevent unplanned pregnancy and STIs. Vomiting, diarrhoea, antibiotics and some other prescribed drugs can interfere with the effectiveness of the pill. In all instances another method of contraception should be used. The majority of contraception is 99% effective BUT only if used correctly and consistently.

The Patch

99% effective if properly used

Description

A patch (similar to a small plaster). Each patch is worn for seven days, for three weeks, followed by a patch free week.

How it Works

The patch contains the female hormones oestrogen and progestogen. The hormones are absorbed through the skin to stop ovulation (an egg being released).

Advantages

  • Does not interrupt sex
  • May be easier to remember, applied once a week for three weeks
  • Highly reversible method of contraception

Drawbacks

  • May be seen on the skin
  • Certain medication can interfere with its effectiveness. In this instance another method of contraception would have to be used.
  • Not suitable for women with conditions such as high blood pressure
  • Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
  • Costs more than the pill
  • Not available without a prescription
  • Not advised for smokers over 35, women who are breast-feeding