Especially when women enter the menopause, they ask themselves how long it will be necessary to use contraception.

From the age of 40, a woman's fertility decreases considerably, but she can still become pregnant. A woman should always use contraception as long as she is still menstruating. However, women over 40 should be careful with oestrogen-containing contraceptives, as these can increase the risk of thrombosis. This is particularly true for women who smoke, have high blood pressure or are overweight. Contraceptives containing progestogen, an implant, an IUD or condoms are more suitable.

Hormone replacement products often help with the symptoms of the menopause, but they do not offer any reliable protection against an unwanted pregnancy.

From the age of 50, if a woman still has monthly periods, she should switch to hormone-free contraceptives.

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