Today is World Contraception Day (WCD), aiming to improve the awareness of contraception so young people can make informed decisions surrounding their sexual and reproductive health.
There are so many different types of contraception, and many
people, particularly young people, aren’t always aware of the options.
Here are some of the main ways you can prevent unwanted
pregnancies and Sexually Transmitted Infections and Diseases (STIs and STDs).
Condoms
Condoms are the best option for preventing STIs and
STDs. They should not be stored near heat, in a purse/wallet or in a back
pocket as they may get damaged. Ensure that you check the expiry date of a
condom before use also, as they may tear if out of date.
It is also important that the condom user knows how to use the condom correctly.
They are a highly effective
contraceptive when used properly, but it is best to use alongside other
contraceptives in case of a mishap or tear.It is also important that the condom user knows how to use the condom correctly.
Intrauterine device (IUD)
The Coil is over 99%*
effective, meaning less than 4 women will get pregnant over 10 years. It is a
small T-shaped appliance which is placed into the womb. It prevents sperm from
reaching an egg and could even stop an egg from implanting itself into the
uterus. You may experience some discomfort or pain when the IUD is fitted,
however, once inserted, it doesn’t need to be removed for 5 to 10 years. The
IUD can be removed sooner by a nurse or doctor and, once removed, your
fertility returns to its typical state.
Intrauterine System (IUS)
The IUS is like the IUD,
however, it releases the hormone progestogen. Progestogen thins the lining of
the uterus to stop fertilised eggs from embedding onto the uterus walls,
prevents sperm from reaching an egg through the thickening of cervical mucus,
and could stop an egg being released from the ovary. It can remain effective
for up to 5 years and can be removed earlier by a nurse or doctor. Fertility returns
to the individual’s natural state once this coil is removed.
The Pill
The Combined Pill is a very
popular contraceptive method and contains two hormones (oestrogen and progestogen),
which stop egg production from the ovaries. Like the IUS, it also thickens the
cervical mucus and thins the lining of the uterus. If used as instructed by a
doctor or nurse, the Pill is over 99%* effective. The progestogen-only pill can
be taken instead if you cannot take oestrogen for certain health reasons. The main
difference is that you period may not be as regular on the progestogen-only
pill. If the pill isn’t used correctly, you miss a pill, or are sick or have
diarrhoea, then the Pill becomes far less effective. As with any medication,
there can be side effects when taking the Pill so it is best to discuss any
issues you may have with your GP.
For more information on the
advantages and disadvantages of taking the Pill, click here.
The Implant
The implant is more than 99%*
effective and lasts for a maximum of 3 years. It works by emitting progestogen
which has the same effect on the cervix and womb, as with the IUS. A thin rod,
around thumb-length, is implanted under the skin of the upper arm. When you get
your implant removed, the area is numbed by a doctor or nurse using local
anaesthetic, and the implant is gently removed from under the skin. The implant
could cause irregular periods, however, once it is removed, your fertility will
return to its natural state.
The
Contraceptive Injection
Like the implant, the
Contraceptive Injection is 99%* effective and works through the release of
progestogen. It lasts for 8 to 13 weeks, depending on the type of injection you
get. The injection cannot be removed so side effects will persist for the
length of time the injection lasts. Your periods may become irregular or stop,
and it may take some time for your period and fertility to resume its normal
cycle after the injection.
Contraception services we
offer
- The Health Shop provides advice and support on sexual health issues, including non-invasive screenings for STDs which do not have symptoms. They also provide contraceptives, including condoms and the morning after pill (an emergency hormonal contraceptive which should be taken within 72 hours of having unprotected sex).
- The C-Card is a service which provides free sexual health advice and information, as well as free condoms, to young people aged 13 to 24. The C-Card is useful for young people who are considering having sex or have already started, or if they are worried about the risk of getting pregnant or contracting STIs.
- Clinical Psychology Service provides a psychological assessment, and advice for people concerned about sex, sexual health or sexual relationships. The service can only be accessed if you are referred by the Department of Genito-urinary Medicine and Contraception and Sexual Health doctors, health advisors and nurses**.
Ultimately, the best way to get the right contraception for
you is to ask your healthcare provider. However, it is still important to be
aware of the different contraception options out there so that you can make
your own informed decision regarding your sexual wellbeing.
Sources
Thanks for sharing. Here you explained about how much condoms are safe and useful.
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