Contraceptive methods overview
Combined oral contraceptive pill (COC): Contains estrogen and progestogen. Over 99% effective with perfect use (91% typical use). Taken daily for 21 days with a 7-day break. Benefits beyond contraception include regulated cycles, reduced menstrual pain, and treatment of PCOS and endometriosis. Contraindicated in women with migraines with aura, history of blood clots, certain liver conditions, and heavy smokers over 35. Requires a prescription after medical evaluation.
Progestogen-only pill (mini-pill): Suitable for women who can't use estrogen (breastfeeding, migraine with aura, cardiovascular risk). Must be taken at the same time daily (within a 3-hour window for most types). Hormonal IUD (Mirena, Kyleena): 3–5 years of highly effective contraception (>99%), reduces or eliminates periods. Inserted by a gynecologist. Copper IUD: Non-hormonal, 5–10 years, also the most effective emergency contraceptive if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex. Subdermal implant: Small rod inserted in the upper arm, 3-year duration, over 99% effective.
Key facts
- ✓No contraceptive method is 100% effective except abstinence — combining methods (e.g., pill + condom) maximizes protection
- ✓Only condoms protect against sexually transmitted infections — hormonal methods do not
- ✓Long-acting reversible contraceptives (IUD, implant) are the most effective methods and fully reversible
- ✓Combined pills are contraindicated with certain medications — always inform your doctor of all drugs you take
- ✓Fertility returns quickly after stopping all hormonal methods, including the pill
Get birth control prescribed online
A physician can evaluate your health history and prescribe the right contraceptive method. Online consultation from S/80.
Book consultation →Emergency contraception in Peru
Emergency contraception (EC) prevents pregnancy after unprotected sex. The most common option is levonorgestrel 1.5 mg (Plan B, "píldora del día siguiente"), available without prescription at pharmacies. It's most effective taken within 24 hours (up to 72 hours) after unprotected sex — it reduces pregnancy risk by 75–89%. It is not an abortifacient: it works by delaying or preventing ovulation, not by disrupting an established pregnancy.
Ulipristal acetate (ella) is more effective than levonorgestrel, especially between 72–120 hours, but requires a prescription in Peru. The copper IUD inserted within 5 days is the most effective EC option (over 99%), and has the added benefit of providing ongoing contraception for years. An online doctor can prescribe ulipristal and advise on the best option for your situation.
Talk to a doctor about contraception
Online medical consultation from S/80. Available across all of Peru.
Book nowChoosing the right method for you
The best contraceptive is the one you'll use consistently and correctly. Key factors to discuss with your doctor: your medical history (migraines, cardiovascular risk, smoking, liver disease), whether you want to regulate your period or treat dysmenorrhea, how often you want to think about contraception (daily pill vs. long-acting method), whether you want to maintain the option of getting pregnant soon (pill is reversible same month; IUD/implant also fully reversible), and whether you need STI protection (if so, add condoms regardless of other method used).
For many women, a combined oral contraceptive is the first choice — it's familiar, highly effective, and reversible. For women who want years of hands-free contraception, the hormonal or copper IUD is the most practical option. An online consultation allows you to review these options in a private, comfortable setting and get a prescription if appropriate, without the typical barriers of accessing gynecology in Peru.
FAQ
Does the birth control pill cause weight gain?
Large systematic reviews have not found a consistent causal link between combined oral contraceptives and significant weight gain. Some women notice fluid retention in the first 1–2 months that usually resolves. If weight change is a concern, discuss low-dose or progestogen-only options with your doctor.
Can I get a contraceptive prescription online in Peru?
Yes. A Delvir physician can evaluate your health history and prescribe combined or progestogen-only oral contraceptives with a digital prescription valid at pharmacies throughout Peru. Methods that require in-person insertion (IUD, implant) will need a gynecology referral.
How soon can I get pregnant after stopping the pill?
Fertility typically returns within 1–3 months after stopping combined oral contraceptives. The vast majority of women who want to conceive after stopping the pill do so within 12 months. There is no evidence that the pill reduces long-term fertility.
What contraceptive is best if I'm breastfeeding?
Combined pills containing estrogen are not recommended during breastfeeding as they can reduce milk supply. The progestogen-only pill, hormonal IUD, copper IUD, and implant are all safe and effective options during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Choosing contraception is a medical decision that should be informed by your personal health profile — not just what's available at the pharmacy. An online medical consultation gives you professional guidance in a private, convenient setting and gets you a prescription matched to your needs.
At Delvir, you can consult a physician online from S/80, from anywhere in Peru.