Contraception

Condoms

Between 85-95% effective, if properly used. For extra protection condoms should be used with spermicide. Do not use old based lubricants such as vaseline as these cause the condom to degrade and split (usually within minutes). This is probably the best type of contraception for anyone who practices casual sex or is uncertain about using other methods. They also protect against HIV, many STIs (sexually transmitted Infections)and genital infections. Check the use-by date before use! Condoms are easy to obtain free from any CASH (Contraception and Sexual Health) clinic or Free condoms are available from the Students' Association.

If your condom breaks what should you do?

Should you make an appointment for the female partner to get emergency contraception? Sometimes still called the morning after pill, although it can be used up to three days after sex. Especially in casual sex you both should make an appointment at the nearest CASH clinic to have a sexual health check up to make sure you've not picked up any infection. In the event that you have, most are easily treated - but will not go away on their own if you don't get them treated!

How can I persuade my partner that we should use a condom?

It can be difficult to talk about using condoms. But you shouldn't let embarrassment become a health risk. The person you are thinking about having sex with may not agree at first when you say that you want to use a condom when you have sex. These are some comments that might be made and some answers that you could try.

C. Don't you trust me?
A. Trust isn't the point, people can have infections without realising it

C. I can't feel a thing when I wear a condom
A. Maybe that way you'll last even longer and that will make up for it

C. I don't stay hard when I put on a condom
A. I'll help you put it on, that will help you keep it

C. I don't have a condom with me
A. I do

C. I'm on the pill, you don't need a condom
A. I'd like to use it anyway. It will help to protect us from infections we may not realise we have

C. But I love you
A. Then you'll help us to protect ourselves

C. Just this once
A. Once is all it takes

The Pill

The most popular contraception for women. Relatively easy and convient, which also help to alleviate period pains. However, it must be taken correctly and consistently to be effective, as one missed pill could lead to pregancy. The combined pill (oestrogen and progesterone) is over 99% effective. The mini pill (progesterone only) is 98% effective when paken properly. Make yourself aware of the risks and possible side effects.Other methods which are available are:

The Diaphragm
The Coil
Contraceptive Injections

Emergency Contraception

If you have had sex without using contraception, or you think your contraception may have failed, you may be able to use emergency contraception. If you act quickly, this can usually prevent pregnancy.
There are two types of emergency contraception:

Emergency contraception pills. These must be started within 3 days (72 hours) from the time you had sex. (These pills may be referred to as 'morning after' pills, but this is misleading as they are effective up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. They are very effective if taken within the first 24 hours.)
Emergency IUD which can be fitted up to 5 days from the time you had sex. Once it has been fitted you can keep it as a regular method of contraception.

Where to get emergency contraception

Emergency contraception is prescribed by a doctor but can sometimes be given out by a nurse by prior agreement with the doctor. It is available free for women of any age (including under 16s) from:

Any GP providing contraceptive services (not just your own)
Some Sexual Health Clinics (the Beeches Centre 01592 643774 for more details!)
Family planning clinics
Brook Centres (for under 25s only)
Some hospital Accident and Emergency Departments
From some pharmacies. Some pharmacies provide free emergency contraception to women under 20.

Confidentiality

Every consultation with your doctor or nurse is private and they will not tell anyone else about it without your permission, even if you are under 16. Some GP practices will supply you with a "Confidentiality Card" which you can hand to the receptionist if you prefer not to explain what has happened.

Side effects

Emergency contraception pills can be used by almost all women, even those for whom regular contraceptive pills are unsuitable. A doctor or nurse will be able to advise you. Some people feel sick after taking the pills but this is less likely if they are taken with food. Over 95% of women who take emergency contraceptive pills do not become pregnant. If a pregnancy results, the pills have not been shown to harm the baby. The emergency IUD is almost 100% effective, but not suitable for all women. A doctor or nurse will be able to advise you on its suitability for you.

Emergency only

Emergency contraceptive pills are not intended for regular use, and like other contraceptive pills, do not prevent STIs. If you do not want to become pregnant, you should always use regular contraception when you have sex. Condoms offer protection against STIs. If you want more information you can call the Sexual Health and National AIDS Helpline free (from the UK) on 0800 567 123 for more information on sexual health (including HIV) or phone your local NHS sexual health clinic.

For more information on protection click here.