"When it comes to contraceptives it is a cafeteria approach. That is, there are a variety of products available and you can choose and pick what you want," says Dr. Kiran Coelho, Consultant Gynaecologist at Lilavati hospital, Mumbai.

However, a counselling session will guide you to choose the right one for you.

When to go for Counselling

"There is different contraception available for different scenarios. For example, pills for newly married woman, barrier contraception after having one child, or contraception for family planning, or emergency contraception to prevent unwanted pregnancy," informs Dr. Coelho.

Also Read: Who is Responsible for Contraception?

Therefore, it is advisable to go for a counselling session on contraception from the time you become sexually active.

Cases where it is a Must

1. Counselling for Teenagers

Most sexually active teenagers don't realise the need for a contraceptive till they get deep into a sexual relation.

Plus, did you know that a girl can get pregnant even before her first menstrual cycle? How?

This is because ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary, can occur before your first period. And in the absence of adequate contraception the egg can become fertilized.

2. Counselling Post Pregnancy

A post pregnancy counselling session will help you to make informed decisions about family planning and birth spacing.

It also helps remove unwanted doubts or inhibitions that you may have about using certain contraceptives. Take, for example what happened in the case of Suzie Fernandez, an HR executive from Mumbai.

Also Read: Is a Vasectomy Advisable?

"After my first delivery I was advised by my doctor use the intrauterine device Copper-T. But when I discussed this with few colleagues, the picture they portrayed was too terrifying that I opted out," says Suzie.

A counselling session at this point will help you to deflate any doubts or anxiety about using the correct one.