Contraception is a kind of method that people use so that when they have sex they will not become pregnant. Most forms of contraception only prevent pregnancy and do not protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections. Most forms of contraception have to be used by women rather than men. This doesn't mean that guys have no responsibility in protecting against pregnancy. In order to choose a method that suits you whether or not you are in a relationship, come to The Place and talk it over with our nurse or doctor. If you are in a relationship you can bring your partner with you.

Here are some of the most useful methods

Condoms:

These are probably the easiest to use and the safest for you, as they protect against pregnancy, STI's and other infections like HIV. They are on offer free at the Place. Click here to find out how to use them. Condoms are 98% effective if used properly.

Female Condom/femidom:

You don't hear as much about female condoms or femidoms. They are like a small sock made out of polyurethane that fits inside a woman's vagina during penetrative sex. Like condoms they offer protection against pregnancy, STI's and HIV. If used properly they are 98% effective. Unlike condoms, you can used oil based lubricants with them because they are much stronger. Some people don't like to use them because they a bit awkward to fit and can be a bit noisy. However, like fitting a tampon, it's a matter of practice and once you get the hang of it, it's quite easy. The main advantage is that it is a method that women can use if guys refuse to wear condoms, giving them a lot more control and choice over protection against STI's and HIV..

The Pill:


There are two main types of hormonal contraceptive pill.Combined and Progestogen only

Combined

This method is over 99% effective against pregnancy. It contains two hormones called proestogen and oestrogen that stop a woman releasing an egg each month (ovulation). Some women are unable to take the combined pill. For further information and advice, come and have a chat with the nurse or doctor at The Place.

Progestogen Only

This method is 99% effective. If taken properly this pill can prevent a sperm meeting an egg or prevent a fertisilised egg from settling into the womb. This can be useful for women unable to take the combined pill. For further information, come and have a chat with the doctor or nurse at the Place

Implants:

This method is over 99% effective for preventing pregnancy. Small flexible tube(s) are inserted under the skin of a woman's are on the inside of her arm near her armpit. It releases progestogen into the bloodstream which can stop a sperm and egg meeting and prevent eggs being released. Can work for between 3 - 5 years without having to think about it. The implant can be put in under a local anaesthetic and although the arm can be tender for a couple of days afterwards, it cannot be seen. For more information or advice come to The Place to talk with the doctor or nurse.

Contraceptive Injection:

This method is over 99% effective. This injection releases the progestogen hormone very slowly into the bloodstream. This stops a woman from releasing an egg (ovulation) and can prevent sperm from meeting an egg. The injection lasts for 12 weeks (Depo-Provera) or 8 weeks (Noristerat). With this method you don't have to worry about contraception for as long as the injection works. As with most methods there can be side effects. To discuss this or any other contraceptive method, come to The Place and talk it over with the doctor or nurse

The IUD:

Also known as the coil, IUD stands for Intrauterine device. It is over 98% effective for preventing pregnancy and can also be used as emergency contraception. It is a small plastic and copper device that is fitted into the womb. It can stop a sperm meeting an egg and prevent an egg from settling into the womb. It works as soon as it is put in. An IUD needs to be fitted by a doctor. For further information, come to the Place and talk it over with the doctor or nurse