Choosing contraception should not be confusing or stressful. There are a few well-established methods available in South Africa, they work in slightly different ways, and the right one for you depends on your health, your routine and what you are comfortable with. This site explains the main options in plain language so you can go into a consultation knowing what to ask.
If you already have a good idea of what you want, you can start an online consultation with an HPCSA-registered doctor. It is private, it fits around your day, and prescriptions are handled through our SAPC-registered pharmacy partners.
Hormonal contraception works mainly by stopping ovulation or thickening cervical mucus so sperm cannot get through. Used correctly, all three of the methods below are very effective. Here is a quick look at each one.
A daily tablet, taken by mouth. There is a combined pill (oestrogen and progestogen) and a progestogen-only "mini" pill for people who cannot take oestrogen. It usually takes about 7 days to become effective. Suits people who are happy with a daily routine.
A small sticky patch worn on the skin and changed once a week. It releases hormones through the skin, so there is nothing to remember daily. Like the pill, it generally takes about 7 days to start working.
A hormone injection (for example Depo-Provera) given every 2 to 3 months. If it is given in the first 5 days of your period it can work within 24 hours. Good if you would rather not think about it week to week.
Not sure which of these fits you best? Our guide to choosing contraception walks through the practical differences.
Longer-acting methods like the IUD (the "loop") and the implant last for years and work very well. They do need to be fitted by a nurse or doctor in person, so they are not something an online service can provide. If that is the route you want, a clinic or your GP can fit one for you. The pill, patch and injection are the methods you can arrange online.
Starting contraception online in South Africa is straightforward. There is no waiting room and no need to explain yourself to a receptionist.
The questions matter because some health factors change which methods are safe. Certain migraines, high blood pressure, smoking over the age of 35, or a history of blood clots can all rule out particular options, which is exactly why a doctor assessment is part of the process.
The pill, patch and injection are very good at preventing pregnancy, but none of them protect you from sexually transmitted infections. Only condoms do that. Many people use a hormonal method for reliable pregnancy prevention and add condoms for STI protection, especially with a new partner. The two work well together.
Contraception is your business and nobody else's. In South Africa, minors can access contraception confidentially, and public clinics provide it free of charge. Those are real, valid options. Online and private services exist alongside them for people who want convenience, privacy and consultations that fit around work, study or family. Whichever route you choose, your details are kept confidential.
You can learn more about who we are, or read through common questions on our FAQ page.
Start a contraception consultation
This page is general information, not personal medical advice. The right method for you is a decision to make with an HPCSA-registered doctor who can consider your full health history.
Answer a few questions about your health, have it reviewed by an HPCSA-registered doctor, and if a method suits you, get your prescription dispensed and delivered discreetly. The online consultation covers the pill and the patch. For an IUD or implant, see a clinic in person.
