family planning

Progestogen only pill (POPs)

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This type of pill does not contain oestrogen and the dose of progestogen is significantly lower than in those used in combined oral contraceptive pills (COC). It is also called the “mini-pill” and is useful for women who do not want pills that contain oestrogen or in situations where the oestrogen is not suitable for medical reasons. They are a highly effective method of birth control when taken correctly.

Formulation – Available formulations are:

  • Norethisterone 350 ug (NET) – (Noriday)
  • Levonorgestrel (LNG) 30 μg
  • Desogestrel (DSG) 75 μg – (Cerazette)

Levonorgestrel (LNG) and norethisterone (NET) are grouped as “traditional’ POPs”

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Myths and facts of combined oral contraceptive (COC) pills

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Currently, there is a wide selection of contraceptive methods available to suit the various reproductive needs of couples. Despite these, there is still a huge unmet need with regards to contraception. There are 123 million women around the world who are not receptive to contraception. In the 2015 United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) report, 15 million adolescent girls in developing countries gave birth and 13 million lacked access to contraceptives. WHO estimated that approximately 214 million women of reproductive age, in developing regions, who want to avoid pregnancy are not using a modern contraceptive method and between 2015 and 2019, almost half of all pregnancies were unintended.

The combined oral contraceptive (COC) pills are readily available in the markets and yet women avoid them due to their belief in the myths surrounding them. Following are some common myths regarding the combined oral contraception pills and the facts to dispel them.

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Vasectomy – Male contraception

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Article contributed by Dr Peter Ng and Dr Beatrice Chua Yoong Ni

The aim of a vasectomy is to prevent sperm from reaching the semen by disconnecting the sperm duct. The resulting ejaculate is therefore sperm-free, eliminating the risk of pregnancy. Sort of like a cheap shark fin soup without the shark fins (sperms).

Vasectomy is the contraception of choice for 6%–8% of married couples worldwide. Vasectomy is a minor procedure that provides effective and permanent contraception. In fact, it is far more effective than many other methods of contraception, including female sterilization.

Prior to a vasectomy, it is important and both husband and wife be present together to be counseled by a specialist on the implications of the procedure. It is important that the completeness of family is ascertained and that both husband and wife had discussed beforehand and agreed that it is the husband who should undergo a vasectomy to attain permanent contraception.

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