Contraception is the best way to keep you and your sexual partner safe from STI’s and not forgetting unplanned pregnancy’s, but what is the best form of contraception for you? We give you the lowdown in order to help you out. Making the process a bit less stressful.

So what forms of contraception are available? Well theres;

Condoms are the best bet for protection against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s)
Condoms block sperm from getting into the girl’s vagina and stop her getting pregnant. They also keep out those nasty STI’s.

The Pill is a tablet taken by a woman usually so that she can have sex without getting pregnant. Unfortunatly the Pill doesnt stop STI’s but when used properly is 99% effective at stopping unwanted pregnancy.

Diaphragms are rubbery dish-shaped things to be inserted into the vagina. Caps are smaller versions. They fit over the cervix (entrance to the womb) blocking sperm. You use a spermicidal cream or gel too. If you want one, see your GP or family planning clinic who’ll show you how to insert one, which you’ll use every time you have sex.

IUD (Inter-Uterine Device) Also called a coil, is a plastic or copper device that is inserted inside the womb. It stops fertilised eggs from sticking and implanting. This prevents a pregnancy. . It has to be inserted by a doctor. but it does not stop STIs. The difference with this form of contraception is your covered for 5 years. It is also a form of emergency contraception -effective when inserted up to 5 days after unprotected sex.

Contraceptive injections and implants work in a similar way to the Pill. With the injection, a hormone is injected into a woman’s body and this protects her from pregnancy for 8-12 weeks. With implants, a tiny tube containing a hormone is placed under the skin of the woman’s arm, protecting her for three years. Injections and implants are good if we would prefer not to take tablets every day.

Dont forget that if you are thinking about having sex, it is always a good idea to talk about contraception with your GP or the Family Planing Clinic. It is also a good idea to discuss methods of contraception with your partner to make sure you are both happy.