There are many different contraceptive methods.  To help couples make an informed choice, it is important for women to receive the latest scientific information on new methods, their risks and benefits.

Most women have certain preferences regarding their contraceptive method of choice.  The following attributes of contraceptive methods are appreciated by most women, as found in a recent study:

• It was found that the effectiveness of a method is the single most important factor valued by women.

• Women also saw protection against sexual transmitted diseases as being an important consideration.

• Other health concerns such as the occurrence of blood clots and the effects on the breasts were also highly valued.

• Women express interest in methods that would provide long duration of action.  Three to five years is the period of desired protection most commonly mentioned.

• For the majority of women a contraceptive method should be reversible.

• Secrecy in contraceptive use from husband and other family members is important for some women

• Some women are largely dismayed at the prospect of a contraceptive method that confers amenorrhoea (absence of bleeding). However, if properly informed, many women find amenorrhoea highly acceptable.