Family planning helps couples decide when to have children and how many. It also protects the health of mothers and babies by spacing pregnancies. Many methods are available in Uganda at health centres, clinics and pharmacies.
Short term methods
- Male and female condoms: also protect against STIs including HIV.
- Oral contraceptive pills: taken daily.
- Injectables: such as Depo Provera every three months, or Sayana Press, which some women can self inject.
- Emergency contraception: for use soon after unprotected sex, not as a regular method.
Long acting reversible methods
- Implants: small rods placed under the skin of the arm, effective for three to five years.
- Intrauterine device (IUD): copper or hormonal, effective for many years.
Permanent methods
Tubal ligation for women and vasectomy for men are for couples who do not want more children.
Natural methods
Fertility awareness methods and the lactational amenorrhoea method work for some couples but need careful use.
Common side effects
Hormonal methods may cause irregular bleeding, headaches or weight changes in some women. Most side effects settle with time. Fertility returns after stopping most methods, though it may take a few months after injections.
Choosing the right method
Talk to a trained health worker about your health, plans and preferences. Partners can attend counselling together.
This article is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified health worker. If you have symptoms, please see a doctor.
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