PROTECTION FOR BETTER ACTION

Learn about different types of contraception to help have happy and safe sex...

1. CONDOM

Top 5 Plus Points

- Only need to be used when you have sex

- Help protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), including HIV and AIDS

- Easily available

- Come in many shapes and sizes to suit everyone

Any bad points?

- Putting them on can interrupt sex

- Some people claim condoms reduce sensitivity during sex

Where can I get them from?

Condoms are often available free from family planning clinics, many sexual health clinics, some General Practitioners (GPs) and online.

2. DIAPHRAGMS

Top Plus Points

- Only need to be used when you have sex

- Can be put in at any convenient time before sex

- Diaphragms and caps may give some protection against STIs, sponges do not

Any bad points?

- Some women have a problem with cystitis

- Can take time to learn how to use them effectively

- Diaphragms only provide limited protection against STIs, including HIV/AIDS

Where can I get them from?

Each must be initially fitted by a doctor or nurse at a GP surgery or family planning clinic. Once fitted, they can be bought from pharmacies.

3. CONTRACEPTIVE PILL

Please note: the contraceptive pill is not intended to be used as a form of regular contraception. For emergency use only.

Side Effects:

- Can cause sickness. If you are sick within 2 hours of taking the pill, then this can reduce its effectiveness

- Doesn't protect against STIs, including HIV/AIDS

- Has to be taken within a limited time after unprotected sex

- Should not be used as a regular method of contraception

- It can disrupt your periods

Where can I get it from?

GPs, family planning clinics and sexual health clinics and pharmacies.