Contraception is free for most people in the UK and with 15 methods to choose from, you'll find one that suits you.
Methods of Contraception
There are lots of methods to choose from, so don't be put off if the first thing you use isn't quite right for you, you can try another. You can read about each of the 15 different methods of contraception by clicking on the links to the right.
Where to get it
Contraceptive services are free and confidential, including to people under 16 as long as they are mature enough to understand the information and decisions involved. There are strict guidelines to for care professionals who work with people under 16.
To find your nearest contraception clinic you can text txtm8 for free on 89868. Or use txtm8’s Find a Local Service. Select ‘Contraception’, then enter a Postcode or Town and click 'Search'. You can also look in the phone book under 'sexual health', or use the NHS Choices service search or the fpa clinic finder.
More information about contraception is also available at www.nhs.uk or for free confidential advice call 0800 28 29 30.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Contraceptive methods allow you to choose when and if you want to have a baby, but they don’t protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Using a condom properly helps to protect against STIs and pregnancy, so whatever method of contraception you're using to prevent pregnancy, use condoms as well to protect your and your partner’s health. Always buy condoms that have the CE mark on the packet. This means that they've been tested to the high European safety standards. Condoms that don't have the CE mark won't meet these standards, so don't use them. And always read the instructions if you're not sure how to use them.
