Contraception Choices
Contraception is used to stop pregnancy and there are many different types. Some types of contraception can be fitted by a nurse and last for a long period of time so you don’t need to remember to take it. Others like the pill rely on you to remember to take it everyday to be effective. Only condoms provide protection from most sexually transmitted infections so you should always use a condom when you sex even if you are using another form of contraception.
If used correctly condoms are over 98% effective in preventing pregnancy. You can get FREE male condoms if you get a C-Card, which you can get from Health Wize, clinics such as Castle Circus Health Centre and other young person venues where ever you see the logo.
Female Condoms (Femidoms)
If used correctly Femidoms are 95% effective in preventing pregnancy as it acts as a barrier preventing sperm from entering the vagina.
Remember, condoms and femidoms are the ONLY form of contraception that can prevent many sexually transmitted infections such as Chlamydia and HIV, as well as pregnancy.
This is fitted just under the skin in the arm and works for 3 years and is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy by releasing hormones into the body.
An injection of hormones is given every 12 weeks and is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy as long as they are kept up to date.
Intrauterine Device (IUD) and Intrauterine System (IUS)
These devices are fitted by a doctor or nurse in the womb of the vagina and are over 99% effective in reducing pregnancy.
These are all over 99% effective but only if they are used correctly. It’s easy to forget to take your pill, change your patch or ring at the right time so are much less effective if used incorrectly.
If you have had unprotected sex, had a condom split or forgotten to take your regular method of contraception then you may be at risk of an unplanned pregnancy. Emergency contraception is a pill that can be taken after unprotected sex within 72hrs or 3 days, or an IUD can be fitted within 5 days after sex to prevent pregnancy. A pregnancy test should be done as well to confirm the methods have worked. It should not be used as a regular form of contraception and does not protect you against STI’s. You can get free emergency contraception from clinics and some pharmacies.
