Contraception can help to prevent pregnancy and some sexually transmitted infections (STIs). There are lots of types of contraception to choose from depending on the type of person you are, your lifestyle and the type of sex you are having. Barrier methods of contraception such as the condom or the diaphragm work by stopping sperm from reaching an egg. Condoms are also the most effective way of preventing STIs. Long acting reversible contraception (LARC) such as the contraceptive implant, the hormonal IUS (Intra-uterine System) or the contraceptive injection work by altering hormone levels in a woman’s body so that they don’t get pregnant. This type of contraceptive means that you don’t have to remember to take it on a regular basis. The pill is another very common type of contraception and can have the added benefit of reducing period pain.
If you have very recently had unprotected sex or if the condom broke and you are worried about pregnancy then emergency contraception such as the ‘morning after pill’ (emergency hormonal contraception) or the copper coil are available from our clinics and some pharmacies.
If you regularly change partners or are a man who has sex with another man then we would recommend that you use condoms every time you have sex. If you are at the start or end of a relationship of any kind or if you have not been tested for STIs then we would recommend that you also use condoms.
We have tried to include as much information about the different types of contraception in this section as possible but it can seem very confusing especially if it is your first time. Don’t worry, we’re here to help and would be very happy to talk to you about what your options are and what will work best for you. You can find out how to contact us here.
