Your Guide to Contraception
Knowledge is power. Understanding your options is the first step to making the best choice for your body, health, and future. Explore the different methods available in Kenya.
Short-Acting Hormonal Methods
These methods are taken daily, weekly, or monthly. They are highly effective when used correctly.
The Pill
~93% effective with typical use.
A pill taken daily to prevent pregnancy.
Releases hormones that stop ovulation (the release of an egg).
You are comfortable with a daily routine.
Must be taken at the same time every day to be effective. Does not protect against STIs.
The Shot
96% effective with typical use.
An injection given by a provider every 3 months.
A progesterone-only injection that stops ovulation.
You prefer not to take a daily pill but want a short-term method.
Requires a clinic visit every 3 months. May cause changes in your menstrual cycle. Does not protect against STIs.
The Patch (Contraceptive Patch)
~93% effective with typical use.
A small skin patch that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.
Delivers estrogen and progestin through the skin to stop ovulation and thicken cervical mucus.
You want a weekly option instead of a daily pill.
Apply a new patch once a week for 3 weeks, then one patch-free week. May cause mild skin irritation. Does not protect against STIs.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)
LARCs are 'get it and forget it' methods that last for years and are the most effective options available.
The Implant (Jadelle, Nexplanon)
99.9% effective. Lasts for 3-5 years.
A small rod inserted under the skin of your upper arm.
Slowly releases a hormone to stop ovulation and thicken cervical mucus.
You want a long-term, 'get it and forget it' method without daily effort.
A minor procedure is needed for insertion and removal. Your periods may become irregular, lighter, or stop. Does not protect against STIs.
IUD (Hormonal or Copper)
99% effective. Lasts for 5-10 years.
A small, T-shaped device placed in the uterus.
Copper IUDs stop sperm. Hormonal IUDs stop ovulation and thicken cervical mucus.
You want a highly effective, long-term reversible option that lasts for years.
Requires insertion by a trained provider. Copper IUDs can make periods heavier; hormonal IUDs often make them lighter. Does not protect against STIs.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods are used each time you have sex. They are the only methods that also protect against STIs.
Male Condom
Up to 98% when used correctly; lower with incorrect use.
A thin sheath worn on the penis that helps prevent pregnancy and STIs.
Worn over the penis to keep semen from entering the vagina, also reducing STI transmission.
You want STI protection and a hormone‑free, on‑demand method.
Use a new condom every time, from start to finish. If it slips or breaks, consider emergency contraception and STI care.
Female Condom
About 80% with correct use; depends on using it properly.
A soft sheath worn inside the vagina that helps prevent pregnancy and STIs.
A loose-fitting pouch with an inner ring that sits in the vagina and an outer ring that stays outside to cover the vulva, blocking sperm from reaching the uterus.
If you want STI protection, a non-latex option, or to insert before sex.
Takes a little practice. Make sure the penis goes inside the condom, not between the condom and vaginal wall. If it slips or tears, consider emergency contraception.
Emergency Contraception
This is a backup method to be used after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It is not for regular use.
Emergency Pill
Reduces risk of pregnancy by up to 95% if taken in time.
A pill taken up to 5 days after unprotected sex.
Delays or prevents ovulation. It is not an abortion pill.
Use as a backup only, not as a regular method of contraception.
Most effective the sooner it's taken. May cause nausea or temporary changes to your next period. Not an abortion pill.
Permanent Methods
Permanent contraception for those who are sure they do not want any or future pregnancies.
Tube Ligation (Female Sterilization)
Over 99% effective as a permanent method.
A minor surgical procedure to permanently prevent pregnancy by blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes.
Prevents eggs from meeting sperm by closing off the fallopian tubes. Does not affect hormones or sexual function.
You are certain you do not want any or future pregnancies.
Usually an outpatient procedure with local or general anesthesia; recovery is typically a few days. Does not protect against STIs.
Vasectomy (Male Sterilisation)
Over 99% effective; roughly 1 in 2000 failure rate.
A simple surgical procedure for men that offers a permanent way to prevent pregnancy.
Closes the tubes that carry sperm (vas deferens) so sperm cannot enter semen. Sex drive and orgasms are unaffected.
You are certain your family is complete and want a reliable, permanent method.
Takes about 15 minutes with local anaesthetic. Use another method for ~3 months until tests confirm no sperm. Does not protect against STIs.
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A healthcare provider can help you choose the best method for your health and lifestyle. Your conversation is confidential and safe.
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