Advice on contraception
Contraceptive choice depends on age, health status, and lifestyle. Our gynecologists help you select the most effective and safest method of pregnancy prevention for your needs.
Choosing contraception by age
Choosing the right contraceptive method is a decision best made together with a gynecologist. The main criteria are contraceptive effectiveness, ease of use, health status, and life stage of the woman.
Contraception for ages 16–19
For this age group, hormonal contraception (birth control pills) is most recommended.
- Recommended with a regular sexual life
- First menstruation should have occurred at least 2 years prior
- A gynecological exam is mandatory before starting the pill
- Pills regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce acne
- Condoms remain necessary for protection against sexually transmitted infections
Contraception for ages 20–35
Women in this age group are candidates for all contraceptive methods:
- Hormonal contraception (pill): one of the most effective methods — reliable and easily reversible
- Intrauterine device (IUD): a simple method that doesn't require daily discipline
- Hormonal ring or patch: an alternative for women who forget pills
- Barrier methods: condom (male or female) — the only method that also protects against STIs
Contraception for ages 35–45
- IUDs are the preferred choice at this age
- Often contraindicated due to uterine conditions (fibroids, erosion)
- For hormonal contraception: latest generation pills with minimal hormone content are preferred
- Contraindications: smoking after age 35 significantly increases the risk of thromboembolic complications with the pill
- Regular gynecological monitoring is mandatory
Contraception after age 45
- Hormonal contraception is effective and has protective properties for gynecological conditions
- Transdermal patches or vaginal rings are recommended — less impact on liver and blood pressure
- They do not increase the risk of thromboembolism compared to oral pills
- The choice is individual and depends on risk factors (obesity, smoking, comorbidities)
Important note about condoms
A condom is the only contraceptive method that simultaneously protects against unwanted pregnancy AND sexually transmitted infections (HPV, HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea). It is recommended as supplementary protection alongside any other contraceptive method.
Written by
Dr Slobodanka Petković
Specialist in Gynaecology & Obstetrics · 35+ years of experience
Patients often ask
Hormonal contraception (pill) and IUDs are among the most effective with 99%+ protection rates. The choice depends on individual needs and health status.
Modern latest-generation pills have minimal impact on body weight. In rare cases, mild water retention is possible in the first month.
Fertility typically returns in the first cycle after stopping the pill. It is recommended to stop 1–3 months before planned pregnancy to regulate the cycle.
When used correctly, condoms have 98% effectiveness. They are the only method that also protects against STIs and are recommended as a supplement to other methods.
An IUD can be placed from age 20. It is particularly suitable for women who want long-term protection without daily medication.