Hormonal-contraception-types

Since their introduction, the term ‘hormonal contraception’ has come to define a wide range of types, delivery methods and brands.

Research shows that around half of all female athletes use some form of hormonal contraceptive, with the combined, mono-phasic, oral contraceptive pill being the most common in the UK[1], although no studies so far have looked at the prevalence of hormonal contraception in golfers.

Despite, the popularity of hormonal contraceptive use in female athletes, knowledge surrounding hormonal contraception is poor. For instance, in a recent study, only 29% of female athletes knew that the combined oral contraceptive pill contained two synthetic hormones, and only 18% knew that the progesterone-only pill contained only one synthetic hormone[2].

When it comes to choosing the right hormonal contraceptive, there's no one-size-fits-all and instead it's all about what works best for you. Finding the right option might take some trial and error, but with lots of options available, it makes it easier to find your right fit. The below table has everything you need to know about the different types of hormonal contraception to help you make the best decision for your body and your golfing needs[3]!

Hormonal contraceptive type (and example brands)	How it works (e.g., delivery method, frequency, and formulation)
Combined contraceptive pill (example brands: Microgynon®, Rigevidon®, and Ovranette®)	Delivery method: Self-administered, taken orally Frequency: Some types might be taken every day whereas others might be taken for 21 days followed by a break for 7 days. Sometimes individuals might have a shorter break of 4 days (tailored regime) or skip the break (continuous regime) Formulation: Synthetic oestrogen and progesterone. Also available in monophasic, biphasic, triphasic and quadraphasic forms
Contraceptive patch (example brands: EVRA®)	Delivery method: Self-administered. A small square patch, 5cm by 5cm that you wear on your skin (top of your arm or back, your bottom or your tummy) which releases hormones into your body Frequency: Replaced every 7 days for 3 weeks until patch-free week (or sometimes might be worn back-to-back) Formulation: Synthetic oestrogen and progesterone
Vaginal ring (example brands: NuvaRing®)	Delivery method: Self-administered, inserted into vagina. It’s made of soft plastic and is around 5cm across Frequency: Replaced every 3 weeks followed by ring-free week (or sometimes might be worn back-to-back) Formulation: Synthetic oestrogen and progesterone
Progestin-only pill (example brands: Cerazette®, Cerelle®, and Norgeston®)	Delivery method: Self-administered, taken orally Frequency: Typically, this is taken daily for 28 days. When you finish a pack, you start a new pack the next day (without any break). Some new forms might be taken for 24 days followed by a 4-day break Formulation: Synthetic progesterone only
Injection (example brands: Depo-Provera™)	Delivery method: Medically administered, intramuscular injection (you can choose to do one type of contraceptive injection yourself at home and a doctor or nurse can show you how to do this) Frequency: Once every 8 to 13 weeks, depending on the type Formulation: Synthetic progesterone only
Implant (example brands: Implanon™ and Nexplanon™)	Delivery method: Medically administered. A small plastic rod, around 4cm long which is implanted under skin of the upper arm Frequency: 3 years then needs to be replaced with a new one Formulation: Synthetic progesterone only
Intrauterine system [IUS] (example brands: Mirena™)	Delivery method: Medically administered, inserted in the uterus Frequency: 3 to 8 years, depending on the type Formulation: Synthetic progesterone only

Please note: The IUS (or ‘hormonal coil’) is not the same as an intrauterine device (IUD). An IUD, also known as a ‘the copper coil’, does not contain any synthetic hormones.

Reminder: This article does not constitute medical advice. It’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider/GP regarding hormonal contraceptive options to make informed decisions that prioritise your health and safety. Always adhere to the manufacturer's instructions and follow your doctor's advice.

References

[1]Martin, D., Sale, C., Cooper, S. B., & Elliott-Sale, K. J. (2018). Period prevalence and perceived side effects of hormonal contraceptive use and the menstrual cycle in elite athletes. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 13(7), 926-932.

[2]Larsen, B., Morris, K., Quinn, K., Osborne, M., & Minahan, C. (2020). Practice does not make perfect: A brief view of athletes’ knowledge on the menstrual cycle and oral contraceptives. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 23(8), 690-694.

[3]https://www.nhs.uk/contraception/methods-of-contraception/