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Short-acting contraceptive methods 

MSI UK nurse talking about the combined pill.

Home      Which method is right for me       Short-acting contraception 

Short-acting contraceptive methods

There are two different types of short acting methods: combined hormonal contraception or CHC and the progestogen-only pill or POP. CHC refers to methods that contain two hormones: the combined oral contraception, transdermal patch and vaginal ring. 

Unlike long-acting reversible contraceptive methods (LARC), these methods do require regular input, whether taking the pill daily, or changing the patch weekly or three weekly intervals with the vaginal ring. 


Video – Short-acting methods: pill, patch and ring 

Short-acting methods refer to methods that you need to remember to use or take regularly, such as the contraceptive pill. 

While short-acting methods offer certain flexibility, their effectiveness rates are typically less than those of long-acting contraception, and this should be taken into consideration when deciding on a method. 
Short-acting methods include hormonal methods such as the pill, patch or ring. 

Watch this short video featuring Simphiwe Sesane, Contraception and Sexual Health Consultant at MSI UK, who will tell you a little bit about short-acting methods. 


Learn more about contraception 

Visit the pages below to find a comparison tool to help you find the right method for you, and to learn more about long-acting reversible contraception and barrier methods of contraception. 

MSI Reproductive Choices UK 20230612_0738

Which method is right for me? 

Find a contraception comparison tool that can help you find the right method for you.   

MSI Reproductive Choices UK 20230605_0792

Long-acting contraception 

Long-acting contraceptive methods include the coils, the injection and the implant.    

MSI Reproductive Choices UK 20230605_0519

Barrier methods  

Barrier methods include condoms, diaphragms and caps.