Contraception options
Most types of contraception don’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms are the only form of contraception that protects against STIs as well as preventing pregnancy. Therefore, if you’re using another type of contraception, such as the contraceptive pill, you should also consider using a condom to protect yourself against getting an STI.
Types of contraception
Condoms (male and female)
Condoms are a form of barrier contraception. They prevent pregnancy by stopping sperm from reaching and fertilising an egg. Condoms also provide protection against STIs, including HIV, and stop them being passed from one sexual partner to another. Condoms are used during penetrative sex (vaginal or anal) and oral sex to protect against STIs.
Combined contraceptive pill
The combined contraceptive pill, usually just referred to as the pill, contains synthetic (man-made) versions of the female hormones oestrogen and progesterone, which women produce naturally in their ovaries. The pill is usually taken to prevent pregnancy but it can also be used to treat:
- painful periods
- heavy periods
- premenstrual syndrome
- endometriosis
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Progestogen-only contraceptive pill
The progestogen-only pill doesn’t contain any oestrogen. It is an option for women who can’t use the combined contraceptive pill, such as those over 35 years old and those who smoke.
Contraceptive implants and injections
Contraceptive implants and contraceptive injections are long-acting, effective, reversible and progestogen-only methods of contraception. Implants are over 99% reliable in preventing pregnancy. They last for 3 years. This means that fewer than 1 in 100 women who use the implant will become pregnant each year. The injection is given into a muscle every 12 weeks and is 94 to 99.8% effective.