Menopause and HRT
Menopause marks the end of menstruation in a woman’s life. It occurs because a woman stops ovulating (releasing a mature egg once monthly), and ovaries no longer produce oestrogen (one of the female sex hormones). Menopause means ‘the last period’. It is a natural event that marks the end of the reproductive years, just as the first menstrual period during puberty marks the start.
Many women, although not all, experience uncomfortable symptoms before and after menopause, including hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbance and vaginal dryness. These symptoms and physical changes can be managed in various ways, including lifestyle changes like healthier eating and increased exercise and by hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment used to relieve symptoms of menopause. It replaces hormones that are at a lower level as you approach the menopause.
Your contraception choices
The Pill is not your only option. Other ‘worry free’ options might work better. You and your health provider can talk about the best contraception for you.
Condoms & diaphragms
Condoms and diaphragms act as barriers to prevent the sperm entering the uterus.
Contraceptive pills
There are two main types of oral contraceptive pills. The combined pill and the progestogen-only pill (mini pill).
Emengency contraception or the morning after pill
If you have had unprotected sex or a broken condom, the emergency pill can prevent a pregnancy from starting if taken within a few days. See our video for all the facts.
The vaginal ring
The vaginal ring contains the same two hormones as in some types of the Pill. It works in the same way as the Pill to prevent an egg being released each month.
Into Uterine Device (IUD)
The IUD is a small contraceptive device that is placed inside the uterus. There are Nro kinds of IUD, the copper IUD and the progestogen IUD
Contraceptive implants
Contraceptive implants work in a similar way to contraceptive pills. The implant, a small thin flexible rod, contains a hormone that helps to prevent pregnancy.
Depo Provera
Depo Provera is a hormone used for contraception. It is given by injection and its effects will last for three months at a time.
Contraception & substance use
If you don’t want to get pregnant, you need to use contraception (birth control). Sometimes drugs or alcohol can affect your ability to make decisions about birth control.