Let's get started...

Understanding contraception can feel overwhelming, especially if it's a topic you're not used to talking about. However, it's an essential part of staying safe and making informed decisions about your health and future. Here are 10 things you've always wanted to know about contraception but might have been too afraid to ask.

1. What Is Contraception?

Contraception refers to methods or devices used to prevent pregnancy. It allows people to have control over if and when they decide to have children. There are various types of contraception, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle, health, and personal preferences.

2. Why Is Contraception Important?

Contraception is important for preventing unintended pregnancies and protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It also allows you to take control of your reproductive health and make decisions that align with your goals and readiness for parenthood.

3. What Types of Contraception Are Available?

There are many different types of contraception, including:

• Barrier methods: Condoms (male and female) physically block sperm from reaching the egg and also protect against STIs.
• Hormonal methods: The pill, patch, injection, implant, and hormonal IUD release hormones to prevent ovulation.
• Intrauterine devices (IUDs): Small devices inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy, available in hormonal or copper forms.
• Natural methods: Tracking fertility to avoid sex on fertile days (less reliable).
• Emergency contraception: Pills used after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.

4. How Effective Is Contraception?

Effectiveness depends on the method and how it's used:

• Condoms: About 98% effective when used correctly, but closer to 85% with typical use.
• The pill: Over 99% effective with perfect use, but about 91% effective with typical use.
• IUDs: Over 99% effective, as they don't rely on daily maintenance.

Using contraception consistently and correctly is key to ensuring it works as intended.

5. Do Condoms Protect Against STIs?

Yes, condoms are the only form of contraception that protects against both pregnancy and STIs. They act as a barrier to prevent the exchange of bodily fluids. Using condoms with another method, like the pill, is often recommended for extra protection.

6. What's the Real-Life Impact of Using Contraception?

For many teenagers, using contraception provides peace of mind and greater confidence in their choices. Accessing contraception can help you feel empowered, responsible and in control.

7. What Are the Side Effects?

Different contraceptives can have side effects, which vary from person to person. Common side effects include:

• Hormonal methods: Mood swings, headaches, nausea, or changes in periods.
• Barrier methods: Irritation or discomfort (rare).
• IUDs: Can cause cramping or irregular bleeding initially.

If you experience side effects, talk to your doctor or nurse. They can help you find a method that works better for you.

8. Where Can You Access Contraception?

In the UK, contraception is free and confidential for people of all ages through:

• GP surgeries
• Sexual health clinics
• Pharmacies (for emergency contraception)
• Brook (a service specifically for under-25s)

Don't be afraid to ask for help, healthcare professionals are there to support you without judgement.

9. How Do You Talk About Contraception with a Partner?

Discussing contraception with a partner can feel awkward, but it's an important step in any healthy relationship. Here are some tips:

• Be honest: Share your thoughts and concerns openly.
• Plan ahead: Discuss contraception before becoming sexually active.
• Share responsibility: Both partners should be involved in the decision-making process.

Having these conversations shows respect and maturity.

10. What Should You Do If Something Goes Wrong?

Sometimes things don't go as planned, like a condom breaking or forgetting to take the pill. If this happens, don't panic:

• Emergency contraception: Take the morning-after pill as soon as possible (available from pharmacies, GPs, or clinics).
• Talk to a professional: Visit a sexual health clinic for advice and support.
• Get tested: If you're worried about STIs, arrange a test to stay safe.

Seeking help quickly can prevent further stress and complications.

Conclusion

Contraception is an essential part of taking control of your health and making informed decisions about your future. By understanding the different methods, their effectiveness, and how to access them, you can feel confident and empowered. Don't be afraid to ask questions or seek advice, your health is worth it.

How are you feeling?

It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.

If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:

• Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
• The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
• Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)

*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.