Need a reliable long-term form of contraception - what to get?

[feelingratheroverwhelmed]

I've just had my second DC and don't plan to have any more. The only contraception I've used for the last 15 yrs are condoms. I took the pill when I was much younger but stopped as I was forgetting it so often it wasn't worth it! I don't think they prescribe that type of pill anymore (Marvelon), and TBH I trust my memory even less now.

I don't want to carry on with condoms. TBH we relied more on the withdrawal method as it didn't really matter if I got pg (which I never did until we "planned" to). But now I am 90% certain I've had my last child so I won't be going back to my old ways!

I've got a real fear of hormone-base contraception. I've got some old and current issues with feeling low, and anxiety, so the Mirena coil is a no-no, as would anything else that may exacerbate these issues. The pill isn't a great option due to my crap memory, and I don't think I'd cope too well if anything caused weight gain.

Bless DH, who would happily take the male pill if it was on the market!

Would your DH have a vasectomy?

Or you could consider sterilisation if you are sure your family is complete. But only being 90% may not be sure enough for sterilisation.

Otherwise a copper coil could suit you - non-hormonal and effective.

Think carefully about implants, at least they're removable if the hormones don't work, or you could try the POP for a little while (backed up with condoms) just to see whether you get on with it and if you do then switch to implant (which is the same hormone but with no memory problem).

In the long term vasectomy is probably your answer.

How about YOU being sterilised?

Just remembered to check this! Sterilisation or vasectomy seems a little hasty at this point. As I said I am 90% sure (possibly more) that I don't want more children. DH, on the other hand, would love to have more (although I've made it clear that I intend to end on two). So, he def wouldn't want the snip now and I can't make him. And who knows? In a few years I may get broody again. I don't want our choices to be taken away just yet.

Can anyone tell me more about the copper coil? I did think a coil would be the answer until I read some threads on here and it started to put me off. But I admit to knowing nothing about it at all.

Hi there- about the copper coil, I had it for about two years like you after I had ds2 and pretty sure was finished at two. It was good, it didn't have any side effects apart from heavier periods, they were not more painful though, I just had to use the extra size tampons and change them pretty frequently. because of that I changed to the Mirena one a few months ago and it has caused be some problems. I have had it removed and am going to wait 3 months before having another copper coil fitted.

I can recommend the Implant. I've had it put in mid January this year and so far (apart from spotting) I've not had any issues with it. The bleeding can be a nuisance but better that than a bun in the oven!lol

One friend I know has had the Implant now for more than three years and swears by it.

I can recommend the Implant. I've had it put in mid January this year and so far (apart from spotting) I've not had any issues with it. The bleeding can be a nuisance but better that than a bun in the oven!lol

One friend I know has had the Implant now for more than three years and swears by it.

Ok im after the same thing as you. I had the implant, but am seriously thinking of having it removed. I find three wk periods wipe me out. Ive read some horror stories, but a lot of others think its great. Hard to know what to do! The question really is what else is there? Rubbish at pills + got a history of depression + hormones so no coil. Let me know if you have any brainwaves!

I have a copper coil and it's worked out well for me. My periods were longer and heavier for about 6 months, but then returned to almost normal, bit heavier than they used to be, but not problematic. I had to have a couple of goes having it inserted due to my odd cervix, but I'm sure not everyone has this problem. The only thing I'm not very happy about is that I can't check the threads. I would rather be able to feel that it is in place, but I can't.

Depo. Spotting for a while & for me a little weight put on but no periods.

I can recommend the Depo Provera injection. I've been on it for a year and I can report no periods (a little spotting if I'm a day late for the injection), no significant weight gain or mood swings (I am bi polar so no more than normal) and I've not been pregnant on it. It has mixed reviews but has been a winner for me. One injection every three months for peace of mind is fab. The only downside that I've read is that it can take around 10 months for your fertility to come back properly.