Looking For Birth Control Options? Choices of Contraceptives That Might Suit You.

You're probably wondering how many types of contraceptives there are in Malaysia. The number might surprise you because there are a lot of options available! In this post, we'll be discussing the 11 most common types of contraceptives that are used by both men and women in Malaysia. This article on birth control Malaysia will help you decide on the best method that you can use for your family planning.

Why Use Contraception?

There are many reasons why people choose to use contraception. Some want to prevent pregnancy, while others want to space out their births or even achieve both objectives. Contraception can also help with managing hormonal imbalances, and heavy or painful periods. If you're sexually active, it is highly recommended to use contraceptives to prevent any unplanned pregnancies. Contraception is important for you as it has 3 main benefits which are:

• Maternal benefits

• Fetal benefits (planned pregnancy)

• Public health benefits.

How to Choose the Right Contraceptive for You?

The most important thing is to find a method that works well for you and your partner without any negative side effects. It's also essential to pick a contraceptive that you're comfortable using consistently. The best contraceptive method for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a contraceptive:

• Your age

• Your health history

• Your lifestyle

• Your sexual activity level

• Whether you want to have children in the future

• How often do you need to use it

• Side effects

• Cost

The types of contraception can be divided into 4 categories:

• Hormonal

• Non-hormonal

• Surgical sterilization

• Emergency contraception

There are a few different types of contraception available in Malaysia. The most common ones are the pill, patch, ring for women, and condoms for men. We will discuss below how it works, its cost, benefits and side effects.

Hormonal Contraception

1. Oral Contraceptives (Birth Control Pill)

What are oral contraceptives?

Oral contraceptive pills ( birth control pills) are hormonal preparations that are taken by mouth to prevent pregnancy. They are one of the most popular forms of birth control. There are 2 types of birth control pills:

• The combined pill: consists of both estrogen (hormone that prepares the body for pregnancy) and progesterone (hormone that maintains pregnancy)

• The mini-pill: which consists of only progestin

How does it work?

The combination pill works by preventing ovulation (the release of eggs from the ovaries). It also thickens the mucus in the cervix, which makes it harder for sperm to reach the egg. The mini-pill only contains progestin and works similarly to the combination pill.

Are birth control pills effective?

When used correctly it can be highly effective with up to a 99% success rate!

How to take oral contraceptives?

The contraception pills are taken daily for 21 days and a pill-free period of 7 days. Different brands have different dosing regimens so do check before administration. 

If you missed a single pill, fret not as you can take it as soon as you remember. If you missed more than 2 pills, continue taking the pill and use the barrier method for at least 7 days.

Why you should choose Oral Contraceptives.

In addition to preventing pregnancy, oral contraceptives can also help to regulate the menstrual cycle, reduce menstrual cramps and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. It is also known to decrease menstrual bleeding and treat acne. Perfect for those with usual heavy and painful periods.

What are the side effects you should know?

Some common side effects associated with oral contraceptives include nausea, weight gain, and headaches. However, these side effects are typically mild and go away after a few weeks.

There are certain risks associated with combined oral contraceptives such as an increased risk of breast cancer. Progesterone-only pills are more suitable for patients who've had a previous episode of stroke. Please seek medical advice if you notice any side effects.

How much does it cost?

The cost of oral contraceptives a month is below RM100 a month.

2. Depo-Provera (Birth Control Shot)

What is Depo-Provera and how does it work?

Similar to progestin-only pills, Depo-Provera works by releasing hormones that prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. It also prevents sperm from reaching the egg. Depo-Provera is injected into the muscle every 3 months.

Why you should choose Depo-Provera?

In addition to preventing pregnancy, the birth control injection can also help to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. This is perfect for you if you have a busy lifestyle and can't keep track of your pills.

How effective is it as a birth control method?

It is extremely effective with up to a 99.9% success rate in the first year.

What are the side effects you should know?

Some common side effects associated with this contraceptive injection include menstrual irregularities such as irregular bleeding, weight gain and delay in the return of fertility.

How much does it cost?

A single hormonal injection costs around RM60. However, there may be extra costs added such as consultation and service costs depending on your provider.

3. Contraceptive Implants

How does it work?

A rod called Implanon is implanted into the arm and releases a hormone called Etonogestrel. This rod needs to be changed every 3 years. It prevents ovulation and hence, prevents pregnancy. However, this method does not protect you from STDs.

How does this method benefit you?

In addition to preventing unwanted pregnancy, implantable contraceptives can also help to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. This method gives you peace of mind as you do not need to track or monitor your pills. One of the best birth control methods available.

Is it effective?

It has a success rate of 99.8 per 100 users in the 1st year.

Side effects you should know

Some common side effects associated with Implanon include menstrual irregularities, weight gain and headaches. However, these side effects are typically mild and it will go away after a few weeks.

How much will it cost?

A single hormonal implant of Implanon costs around RM400 but they can last for a few years.

4. Hormonal IUD (Hormonal Intrauterine Device)

How does it work?

Mirena is a brand name for an IUD in the market. This is a contraceptive that lasts 5 years. It stops the sperm from reaching the eggs. Hence, this stops fertilization. The rod is placed in the uterus.

How do you benefit from this method?

Hormonal IUDs are highly effective. They are also quickly reversible once removed. Some of the benefits include the reduced risk of some diseases and reduced blood clots.

Side effects you should know

Some common side effects associated with hormonal IUDs include cramping, spotting, and headaches. However, these side effects are typically mild and go away after a few weeks.

How much it will cost you

A single hormonal IUD insertion costs around RM1000 at private clinics and they can last for up to 5 years.

Non-Hormonal Contraceptives

1. Male Condoms

How does it work?

Condoms work by creating a barrier between the sperm and the egg. This barrier prevents the sperm from fertilizing the egg, and as a result, pregnancy is prevented. However, condoms may not be enjoyable to use for certain people and they may break leading to contraceptive failure.

Benefits of using a condom

In addition to preventing pregnancy, condoms also help protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from sexual intercourse. This method promotes the habit of practicing safe sex.

How effective is the barrier method?

The barrier method has an average success rate of 80%.

Side effects you should know

There are no major side effects associated with condoms, but some people may experience allergic reactions to latex.

How much does it cost?

A pack of 3 condoms costs around RM5 to RM10 in local pharmacies and convenience stores.

2. Female Condoms

How does it work?

Similar to male condoms, female condoms work by creating a barrier between the sperm and the egg. This barrier prevents the sperm from fertilizing the egg, and as a result, pregnancy is prevented. The female condom is placed into the vagina before intercourse.

Benefits of using a female condom

In addition to preventing pregnancy, it also protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They are also less likely to cause allergic reactions than male condoms.

Side effects you should know

There are no major side effects associated with female condoms, but some people may experience allergic reactions to latex.

How much it will cost you?

Prices differ slightly from male condoms and they can be bought without a prescription.

Surgical Sterilization

1. Vasectomy

What is a vasectomy and how does it work?

Sterilization for men, or vasectomy, is a simple surgical procedure to block the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles. This is an outpatient surgical procedure. A period of 3 months post-procedure is needed to ensure that sterility is complete.

Benefits of having a vasectomy

A vasectomy is a permanent form of contraception that does not require ongoing maintenance. In addition, it has no impact on a man's hormones or sexual function.

How effective is it?

Vasectomies are more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. They are also considered permanent, so you will not have to worry about contraception once the procedure is done. This is one of the most effective contraceptive methods available.

What are some common side effects?

Some common side effects associated with vasectomy include bruising, bleeding, and minor discomfort.

How much does it cost?

The cost of vasectomy varies depending on the country and costs around RM2000-3000 at private clinics.

2. Tubal Ligation

What is tubal ligation and how does it work?

Sterilization for women, or tubal ligation, is a simple surgical procedure to block the tubes that carry eggs from the ovaries. This prevents eggs from being fertilized by sperm, and as a result, pregnancy is prevented. Tubal ligation can be done as an outpatient procedure and does not require a hospital stay.

Benefits of tubal ligation

Tubal ligation is considered a permanent form of contraception. It is also relatively safe and has a low risk of complications.

How effective is it?

Tubal ligation is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

What are some common side effects?

The most common side effect associated with tubal ligation is pain and discomfort. Other potential side effects include bleeding, infection, and tissue damage.

How much will it cost you?

The cost of tubal ligation varies depending on the country and typically costs around RM2000-3000 at private clinics.

Emergency Contraception

If you've had unprotected sex or failure of the barrier method, you can use emergency contraception within a given time frame. The approach to emergency contraception requires essential patient history and counselling. The indications for emergency contraception include:

• Unprotected intercourse

• Contraceptive failure

• Victims of rape

There are two types of emergency contraception:

• Copper intrauterine device (IUCD)

• Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs)

Do note that emergency contraception is not a birth control method but it is used for emergencies when birth control was not used or failed.

1. Plan B

So how does it actually work and when can you take it?

Plan B, also known as the morning-after pill is a progesterone-only emergency contraceptive pill that is taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. 

The pill stops ovulation and prevents fertilization from occurring. The earlier you take the pill after unprotected intercourse, the higher the chance of preventing pregnancy.

How effective is Plan B?

It is up to 87% effective if consumed directly after unprotected sex

Pros of using Plan B

Plan B is a highly effective cheap emergency contraceptive pill that can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. In addition, it is widely available without a prescription.

Side effects you should take note

Some common side effects associated with Plan B include nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness and dizziness.

How much does it cost?

A pack of emergency morning-after pills costs around RM4 to RM20.

2. Copper Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD)

How does it work?

IUCDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus. Copper IUDs work by releasing ions that are toxic to sperm and eggs, which prevents fertilization from occurring. 

It has a direct spermicidal effect. A copper intrauterine device (IUD) is the most effective method of emergency contraception. It can be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse.

Why use an IUCD?

IUDs are highly effective. They are also quickly reversible once removed. They are also suitable for patients who can't take hormonal contraceptives. In addition, the copper IUD can be used as an emergency contraceptive if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex.

Side effects you should know

Some common side effects are increased menstrual cramping, bleeding, headaches and an increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease.

How much does it cost?

A single IUCD insertion costs around RM500 at private clinics.

Where can you get Contraception in Malaysia?

Contraceptives are available at most pharmacies and clinics. You will need a prescription from a doctor or health care provider to get certain contraceptives from a pharmacy. However, you can usually get condoms without a prescription.

If you're thinking about using contraceptives, be sure to talk to one of our certified doctors at DoctorOnCall to find out the right contraceptive method for you.

DoctorOnCall is a telemedicine service that offers confidential contraceptive consultation to the general public. We provide professional medical advice on the different types of contraception available in Malaysia and help you choose the right method for you. 

Our service is affordable and convenient, and we offer appointments 7 days a week. To book a consultation, please visit our website or call us at 1800-88-2299 today!

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