Oral contraception does so much more than protect women from unwanted pregnancies, says Dr Esther Sapire, Cape-based sex therapist.

Gone are the days when couples had little control over how many babies they had and when they them. Today, different methods of contraception provide couples with a wide choice.

Women who rely on the Pill as their sole method of contraception need to take their daily dose at the same time every day, otherwise its effectiveness is reduced.

Life happens: you might have met a new man, or you've just had a baby. Exciting events in your life often means contraceptive considerations are low down on your priority list.

The condom is the most commonly used barrier method. It is the only contraceptive method that also prevents infection by HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

The long-awaited contraceptive patch, which studies have shown to be more effective than the Pill, is now available in South African pharmacies.

There are only two basic types of emergency contraceptive pills in South Africa.

These include oral contraceptives, hormonal injections, implants and vaginal rings.

Choosing the right form of contraception is not always easy. It is important that you find one that suits your pocket, your state of health and your lifestyle.

A vasectomy is the most grown-up thing a man can do. Here’s the honest account on the pros and cons of the “snip”, as experienced and written by a medical journalist.

It is nearly midnight and your 16-year-old hasn’t returned from her date with her boyfriend. You don’t want to think about it, but the thought does cross your mind.

The Association for Voluntary Sterilisation of SA promotes sterilisation for those who don't want more children. Here are a list of hospitals which offer free sterilisations.