What contraception can I take to stop me having a baby besides using a condom?
Remember that there isn’t a contraceptive out there that is 100% safe! If you have been told by your heart doctor that you should not have a baby just yet, then you really need to pick the best option and the safest option for you. Remember to talk things through with your parents if you can and remember your heart team is always there to help you as well.
The Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill
The combined oral contraceptive pill is very effective and reliable as long as you remember to take it as instructed. About 8% of women using the pill get pregnant each year though, mainly because they forget to take it.
If you have a heart condition that makes you look slightly blue or you know you are at risk of developing clots (you may be on warfarin or aspirin) then you should NOT use this. As it may increase your risk of developing clots.
The Condom
The condom is useful in protecting you from sexually transmitted disease. It is 85% effective as long as you remember to use one!. It is also safe for anyone with a congenital heart problem.
The Mini Pill
The mini pill is safe to use even if you are slightly blue. It is very effective. It has to be taken at the same time every day though – you have to be very organised and remember to take it!
Implanon Device
For those of you with complex heart problems – we would advise to plan your pregnancy carefully. The safest and most reliable contraception is called an Implanon Device.
- It is 99.95% effective and safe – even for those of you who are “blue”
- It is a small rod that is implanted just underneath the skin on the inside of your upper arm.
- You don’t need to remember to use it or take it, because it stays in your arm
- It can stay there for 3 years
- It may cause irregular bleeding to begin with
- It is easily removed if you want to start planning to have a baby.
