Contraception
There are many types of contraception available but sometimes it's hard to decide which one is right for you. Here is a little bit of info on some of the most effective methods. You can get even more really good advice from your GP, Contraception and Sexual Health service (formerly known as Family Planning) or any of the Youth Clinics throughout Rotherham. It's good to talk about contraception with your partner so that you choose a method that is right for both of you and understand the importance of using condoms.
Catch it in a Condom
Condoms are a barrier method of contraception and if they are used properly they are the only method that is effective in protecting you from both STIs and pregnancy at the same time. So even if you are using another method of contraception to avoid getting pregnant, you should always use a condom as well to stop you catching a nasty STI like Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea or Herpes.
-
LARC
Long Acting Reversible Contraception
These forms of contraception are great if you don't want to remember taking something everyday and it is reversible so it can be removed or stopped when you and your partner are ready to start a family.
Which will last the longest?
5-10 years
The Intrauterine device (IUD) which is more commonly known as the coil is placed in the womb by a doctor or nurse so that it stops sperm meeting an egg or may stop an egg implanting itself in the womb. It is a small plastic or copper device that is usually shaped like a 'T'.
5 years
The Intrauterine system (IUS) is similar to the IUD as this is also a 'T' shaped plastic device which is placed in the womb by a doctor or nurse. However, this one uses hormones to stop sperm meeting an egg or an egg implanting itself in the womb.
3 years
The Contraceptive Implant is a small flexible rod which has the hormone, progestogen in it. The progestogen stops a girls eggs being released and thickens the lining of the cervix so that sperm can't get to the womb. It's inserted into the underneath of a girls' upper arm and although you can feel it when you push down on it, you can't see it.
12 weeks
The Contraceptive injection, which is sometimes called Depo or Depo Provera, is an injection of progestogen that is given to girls. This works a bit like the implant as the injection contains progestogen but it doesn't last as long. If you use this method of contraception you have to make sure you get your next injection on time otherwise you will be at risk of pregnancy.
-
SARC
Short Acting Methods
These forms of contraception do exactly what they say on the tin-only last for a short period of time and they rely on you to remember to take them or put one on. Maybe not the best method if you're busy or forgetful.
The Combined Pill
These are small tablets that you have to take everyday for three weeks and then you stop taking them for a week. This is usually when you'll have a period. These contain two hormones, oestrogen and progestrogen and work like other hormone based contraceptives-they stop a girls eggs being released and thickens the lining of the cervix so that sperm can't get to the womb.
The Mini pill
Is a lot like the combined pill but this one only contains progestogen and it has to be taken everyday without having a break.
The Contraceptive Patch
This is also known as Evra, is a small beige patch which is applied to the skin like a sticky plaster. This is a hormonal contraception which releases oestrogen and progestrogen to stop eggs being released and ticken the cervix lining. The patch can be worn on most areas of the body apart from on your boobs or on skin that is sore or broken. A patch is worn for seven days continuously and then on the eighth day it should be removed and replaced with a new one immediately. When you first start to use the patch you should put it on the first day of your period and it will protect against pregnancy immediately.
-
Emergencies Only
These are tablets that can be taken up to 72 hours after sex to prevent pregnancies. These are often known as Emergency Hormonal Contraceptives (EHC). For details of places you can visit to get free Emergency Contraception click here.
There is also a free scheme in pharmacists around Rotherham where you can get EHC for free if you are aged 16 or above. To see which pharmacists are included in this scheme visit www.help72.co.uk.
For more in depth info on contraception visit www.ruthinking.co.uk.
To prevent pregnancy,
STIs and HIV – always use a condom.