Choosing birth control shouldn’t feel overwhelming
Whether you’re preventing pregnancy, regulating your period, or just looking for peace of mind — birth control is personal. But with so many options out there, it’s easy to feel lost in the lingo.
This guide breaks down the main contraceptive options available in South Africa, how they work, what to consider, and how to access them.
The Injection (a.k.a “the 2-month or 3-month shot”)
How it works: A hormone injection given by a nurse into your arm or bum. It stops ovulation and thickens cervical mucus.
How often: Every 8 weeks (Nur-Isterate) or 12 weeks (Depo-Provera)
Pros:
✅ Discreet
✅ You don’t have to remember anything daily
✅ Often makes periods lighter or stop altogether
Cons:
⚠️ Can delay fertility return after stopping
⚠️ Some people gain weight or get skin changes
Available at Netclinic – just walk in or book online.
The Pill (a.k.a “the daily tablet”)
How it works: Take one pill at the same time every day to prevent ovulation.
Types:
- Combination Pill (oestrogen + progestin)
- Mini Pill (progestin only)
Pros:
✅ Helps with acne and painful periods
✅ Fertility returns quickly when stopped
Cons:
⚠️ You must take it daily — missing even 1 or 2 can reduce protection
⚠️ Can cause nausea or mood changes in some
The Implant (a.k.a “the small stick in your arm”)
How it works: A small rod inserted under the skin in your upper arm, releases hormones slowly over time.
Lasts: Up to 3 years
Pros:
✅ One-time procedure
✅ Highly effective
✅ Private and convenient
Cons:
⚠️ Periods may become irregular
⚠️ Requires a trained provider for insertion/removal
🩺 Ask your netclinic if they provide this service or can refer you.
The IUD (a.k.a “loop” or intrauterine device)
How it works: A small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus. Comes in two types:
- Copper (non-hormonal) – lasts up to 10 years
- Hormonal (Mirena-type) – lasts 5–7 years
Pros:
✅ Very low-maintenance
✅ Long-term protection
✅ Fertility returns quickly after removal
Cons:
⚠️ Insertion can be uncomfortable
⚠️ May cause heavier periods (copper type)
Male & Female Condoms
How they work: Physical barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the egg.
Pros:
✅ Protect against pregnancy and STIs
✅ No hormones
✅ Easily available (often free at netclinic)
Cons:
⚠️ Must be used correctly every time
⚠️ May break or slip if not fitted/used properly
Pro tip: Always keep a few in your bag. No shame in being prepared.
So how do you choose the right one?
It depends on:
- Your health history
- Whether you want short-term or long-term protection
- How comfortable you are with hormones
- Whether you want something discreet or more flexible
- Your lifestyle (e.g. travel, routine, forgetfulness)
The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Talk to a Netclinic nurse – no judgement, just good advice
Our team is here to help you choose a method that works for your body, goals, and lifestyle. Whether it’s the shot, the pill, or just more info — we’ve got you.
Quick Recap: Birth Control Options at a Glance
