Occasionally I come across patients who are so anxious about the possibility of pregnancy that it affects their sex lives and ultimately the intimacy between them.

Anxiety can affect a man's libido, leading to erectile difficulties. It has a similar effect on women, leading to many 'headaches' and nights of going to bed early.

These days, there are a number of birth control options, and I always tell couples that there is no 'right' or 'wrong' method to use. They need to experiment with the available options and decide which works best for them. They should also consult with their GP or gynecologist to help decide on the right options for them.

The most obvious method of birth control is a condom. It also protects against STI's, but it interrupts the rhythm of sex, spoiling 'the moment' and a lot of men and women feel that the latex and lubricants are desensitizing.

There are a number of new pills on the market today, with very low hormone dosages to minimise side effects. However, the pill has been shown to cause low libido, breast tenderness and mood fluctuations in some cases. The pill also needs to be taken on a consistent basis in order for it to work.

Some women opt for the injection which lasts three months, but also has a number of potential side effects for certain cases.

Then there are intrauterine devices (IUDs). Some release hormones into the body, others prevent pregnancy through 'poisoning' the sperm as they travel past. There is a small risk of developing scar tissue in the fallopian tubes, which could lead to issues in conceiving later. However, I believe that these IUDs are a very effective form of birth control and have minimal side effects.

Unfortunately, there isn't one perfect option and one perfect answer for all couples out there. You need to just experiment with the options and find the one that works best for you.