From late adolescence onwards, protection against unwanted pregnancy is an ongoing concern for most women. When you stop taking contraceptive precautions, it can be incredibly frustrating not to get pregnant immediately. Many women are surprised to learn that the effects of some contraceptives can continue even after they have stopped using the method.

• Coil (Intra-Uterine Device - IUD) - Some types of coil no longer in use caused scar formation in the womb and the Fallopian tubes, and/or inflammation in the pelvis (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease - PID). This problem is very unlikely with today’s modern coils.
• Contraceptive pills - Although unusual, ovulation can take some months to return after stopping the pill.
• Contraceptive injection - It is well established that the contraceptive injection can delay pregnancy in women for some time after they stop using this method.
• Sterilisation - Sterilisation is intended as an irreversible method of contraception both for men and women. In the event that either a man or women who has been sterilised wants it reversed they can try to have reconstructive surgery performed. This operation does not always succeed, and often the couple may have to resort to intensive fertility treatments such as IUI or IVF.

It is also important to be aware that the thick consistency of lubricants can kill sperm or hold them in suspension, and therefore unintentionally act as a form of contraception.