Contraception

The Pill (Combined and Prog-only)

Combined: 99% effective when used correctly. Take one a day for 21 days then a 7 day break. Works by preventing an egg from being released.

Progesterone-only: 91% effective when used correctly. Take one a day continuously. No break. Works by thickening mucus lining in the uterus to prevent sperm getting through.

Both come with hormonal side effects and an increased risk of cervical cancer. Both are free from your GP and some pharmacies over the counter.

A check up is needed every 6 – 12 months to measure blood pressure.

NHS LINK: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/combined-contraceptive-pill/

AND

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/the-pill-progestogen-only/

Condoms

98% effective when used correctly.

Some people may claim that wearing a condom is uncomfortable or they ‘don’t like wearing one’ but it is the only form of contraception that protects against STIs.

IT IS A SEXUAL OFFENCE TO REMOVE A CONDOM DURING SEX WITHOUT KNOWLEDGE OR CONSENT FROM YOUR PARTNER.

Storage and use by dates are essential to ensuring condoms don’t tear or come off during sex.

Condoms are free from sexual health clinics or from your school nurse. They can be bought from most supermarkets after leaving school.

NHS LINK: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/male-condoms/

The Implant

Over 99% effective.

Small, flexible tube inserted under the skin in the female’s upper arm.

Gradually releases progesterone which thickens uterus lining to prevent sperm getting through. Implant lasts for 3 years.

NHS LINK: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/contraceptive-implant/

Photo by Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition on Unsplash

Contraceptive Injection

Over 99% effective and lasts between 8 – 13 weeks.

Gradually releases progesterone in the body, stopping an egg from being released and preventing sperm getting through.

Administered for free by GP or nurse at your GP.

NHS LINK: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/contraceptive-injection/

IUD (The Coil)

A small, T-shaped, plastic and copper device that releases copper into the womb to prevent pregnancy.

Is over 99% effective and lasts between 5 – 10 years.

Can be painful to fit and could lead to pelvic infection.

NHS LINK: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/iud-coil/