Contraception - As individual as your life

The right contraceptive method - with or without hormones

The right contraceptive method depends on your current life situation and your individual needs. Many women want safe contraception without hormones, while others prefer hormonal contraception such as Implanon or the pill.

The IUD - whether hormonal or copper-containing - is also a popular option for long-term contraception.

At our practice, we will advise you in detail on all the options and help you to find the right contraceptive method for you - tailored to your health, your wishes and your personal situation.

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Finding the right contraceptive method - personalised, safe and tailored to your life situation

Find the right contraception for you - safe, personalised and well advised in Bern

Contraception is as versatile as your life. Whether hormonal contraception, hormone-free alternatives, IUDs, contraceptive sticks or natural methods - the important thing is that your contraceptive method suits you and your current phase of life. Perhaps you are currently faced with the question of whether you want to change your contraception or would like neutral advice on the various options. At our gynaecological practice in Bern, we will help you find the right contraception - step by step, in peace and tailored to your needs.

Close-up of a blister pack of pink pills on a vivid yellow background for medication concept.

Start counselling or contraception right away

Some women already know which contraceptive method they want - for example, the IUD, Implanon or a new prescription for the pill. Others first want a personal consultation to discuss which contraceptive method best suits their current life situation. Both are possible in our practice: you can make an appointment directly for an examination before inserting an IUD, for the insertion of a contraceptive stick or for the issue of a pill prescription. You can also get advice at your leisure if you are unsure or would like to look for alternatives.

The pill and hormonal contraception - safe and easy in everyday life

The contraceptive pill is one of the best-known contraceptive methods and is favoured by many women for its ease of use. There are different types of pills, for example combination products such as Belara, Valette, Microgynon or Yasminellewhich contain oestrogen and luteal hormone, and mini-pills such as Cerazette or Desogestrelthat work without oestrogen. Which pill is suitable for you depends on your personal situation, your tolerance and your lifestyle. The combined pill, for example, can regulate your cycle and improve skin problems, while the mini pill is a good alternative if there is an increased risk of thrombosis. In addition to the pill, there are other hormonal contraceptive methods such as the contraceptive ring or the hormone patch, which also work reliably and are easy to use in everyday life.

A hand draws on a menstrual period tracker in a notebook using a red colored pencil, symbolizing organisation.
Artistic shot of a woman's hand resting on her arm, set against a soft pink backdrop.

Implanon - the contraceptive rod for top safety

The contraceptive stick, also known under the brand name Implanon NXT is an extremely safe contraceptive method that does not require you to think about anything. It is inserted under the skin of the upper arm in a short, outpatient procedure (with local anaesthetic) and continuously releases a luteal hormone. The Implanon is effective up to three years and is one of the safest contraceptive methods available. Women who want low-dose hormonal contraception without having to take it every day particularly appreciate the stick. Possible side effects can include irregular bleeding. At our practice, we will discuss together whether the Implanon is suitable for you and will insert and remove it at a later date.

IUD - with or without hormones - long-term contraception

The IUD is a very popular contraceptive method for women who want long-term, reliable contraception. There are two main types: the Hormone coil and the Copper spiral. Hormone coils like Mirena, Kyleena or Jaydess continuously release a small amount of luteal hormone into the uterus and are effective for between three and five years, depending on the model. Periods may become weaker under the hormonal coil or stop altogether.

The Copper spiral and the Copper chain (GyneFix) are hormone-free and change the environment in the uterus so that eggs cannot implant. The copper IUD and copper chain are usually effective for five years. Women who want hormone-free contraception often opt for this method. At our practice, we will advise you on the advantages and disadvantages of both options, discuss the insertion procedure and accompany you during check-ups and aftercare.

Copper IUD Contraception

Frequently asked questions about contraception - clearly explained

When it comes to contraception, many questions often arise. You may be wondering which method suits you best, how safe certain contraceptives are or what you need to bear in mind when switching. Many women are also concerned about topics such as contraception without hormones, possible side effects or long-term solutions. Here we answer the most frequently asked questions about contraception that we encounter in practice - clearly, honestly and comprehensibly. If your personal question is not included here, we will be happy to take the time to clarify it in a direct conversation.

The reliability of the pill depends on taking it correctly. The so-called Pearl Index for the pill is around 0.1 to 0.9, which means that less than one in a hundred women will become pregnant each year.

Possible side effects of the pill can include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness or mood swings. We will be happy to discuss which pill is suitable for you individually.

The IUD continuously releases corpus luteum hormone into the uterus and can make periods weaker or cause them to stop. The first few months are also often characterised by intermenstrual bleeding. The copper IUD is hormone-free and also changes your period: it usually becomes heavier and longer. Both methods are very safe and work for several years. We will be happy to discuss which IUD is right for you.

Usually after the 23rd week of pregnancy. Often a little earlier with the second child. At first it feels more like a fluttering or bubbling - with time the movements become more distinct.

Hormone-free contraceptive methods include the copper IUD, the copper chain (GyneFix), condoms, the cervical cap, the female condom and natural methods such as symptothermal cycle monitoring. At our practice, we will advise you in detail on which hormone-free method is suitable for you and what you should pay attention to when using it.

The condom has a Pearl Index of around 2 to 12 and is therefore less safe than many hormonal methods. However, when used correctly, the condom offers acceptable protection against pregnancy and is the only contraceptive method that also protects against sexually transmitted diseases.

If you cannot tolerate your current contraceptive method, it is important to look for alternatives together. At our practice, we will advise you on hormonal and hormone-free options so that you can feel comfortable with your contraception.

In Switzerland, contraceptives such as the pill, the IUD, the Implanon or condoms are considered a personal choice and are generally not covered by basic insurance. This means that the costs of contraceptives are borne by the patient.

What patients say about us

We are delighted with the feedback from women who have placed their trust in us - for many it is more than just a visit to the doctor.

Dr Stefan Buballa: Your gynaecologist in Bern - personal & multilingual

For pregnancy, contraception, the desire to have children and preventive care - in a practice where you feel understood.

In our practice, respect and personalised support take centre stage. Whether you are planning your first pregnancy, looking for a hormone-free contraceptive method or simply want a gynaecologist who really listens to your questions - we are here for you. Open, multilingual and with many years of experience.