Where can I get contraception?

Contraception methods and devices prevent pregnancy. The NHS offers various free options for men and women. Confidential advice and support are readily available.

Where to go

  • General Practice (GP): Consultations are confidential
  • Sexual Health Clinics: Google your nearest one
  • Pharmacies: Private consultations and selected contraception supplied (potential prescription requirement)
  • NHS Website: Provides comprehensive information.

Contraception methods

  • Non-Hormonal Methods
    • Condoms
    • Copper intrauterine device (IUD; coil)
    • Cap/diaphragm
    • Natural Family Planning/Fertility Awareness (not advised)
  • Hormonal Methods
    • Oral Contraceptive Pill (OCP)
    • Implant
    • Injection
    • Patch
    • Vaginal ring.
  • Permanent Methods
    • Female sterilisation (tubal ligation)
    • Male sterilisation (vasectomy)
  • Emergency Contraception: For occasional use only.

Important notes

  • No contraception method is 100% effective.
  • Most methods don’t protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
  • Condoms offer protection against most STDs.
Note. When counselling patients, a  doctor, nurse or pharmacist, should emphasise the importance of choosing the right contraception method and understanding its effectiveness and potential limitations.

Summary

We have described how to get contraceptives (and help with sexual health problems). We hope it has been helpful.