Contraception
For information and advice on sexual health, if relating directly to a service we provide, please ask your centre or clinic during or after your appointment.
For general information on sexual health, please consult your GP, family planning or GUM centre. The NHS Choices website contains further information and a sexual health service locator click here to visit their website. There is also a wealth of sexual health information on the fpa website click here to visit their website.
After an abortion
Some methods of contraception can be started immediately after an abortion. Please check with a nurse or doctor at the clinic. Alternatively you can get advice from your local family planning clinic or GP.
Please remember that fertility returns almost immediately after the abortion. Condoms can be used any time following an abortion to reduce the risk of pregnancy or infection.
Barrier Methods
Male and Female Condoms:
Condoms are a barrier method of contraception. The male condom is made from very thin latex which fits over the man’s erect penis, this stops the sperm getting into the vagina. The female (or Femidom as it is known in the UK), is made from thin polyurethane which fits inside the vagina and stops the sperm entering the womb.
The male condom is 98% effective while the Femidom is 95% effective if used correctly. Click here for an approved instructions guide.
Diaphragms and Caps
Diaphragms and caps are referred to as a barrier form of contraception. They are made from latex or silicone with a flexible rim that fits over your cervix. They come in different styles and sizes. When using a diaphragm or cap you will need to also use Spermicide, as it is the Spermicide that kills the sperm. If used correctly the diaphragms and caps are between 92-96% effective.
Non-barrier Methods
IUD (Intrauterine Device)
The IUD is a small plastic and copper T-shaped device with either one or two soft threads on the end. The IUD is fitted into your womb by a trained doctor or nurse with the thin threads hanging through the opening of the cervix. IUDs work mainly by preventing fertilization, and interfering with the sperm's ability to reach the egg. They are around 99% effective with less than 1 woman in a 100 becoming pregnant. They can be left inserted from 3 to 10 years depending on the type used.
IUS (Intrauterine System)
The IUS is a small plastic device which releases the progestogen hormone into your womb. The IUS is fitted into your womb by a trained doctor or nurse. Once it is fitted you will have two thin threads hanging through your cervix. They can be left inserted for up to 5 years and are around 99% effective with less than 1 woman in a 100 becoming pregnant.
Contraceptive Implant
The contraceptive implant is placed under the skin of your arm using local anaesthetic. It is a small piece of plastic which contains the progestogen hormone. This is released into your body, similar to your natural progesterone cycle. They work up to 3 years; they can be taken out sooner if you wish. They are around 99% effective with less than 1 woman in a 100 becoming pregnant.
Contraceptive Injections
The contraceptive injection contains the slow releasing hormone, progestogen. This is similar to the natural hormone made by your own body. Depo-Provera is the most common type used in the UK and protects you from pregnancy for 12 weeks. They are around 99% effective with less than 1 woman in a 100 becoming pregnant.
POP (Progestogen only Pill)
The pill only contains the progestogen hormone which is similar to the progesterone women produce. There are different types of the progestogen POP. If the POP is not taken according to the instructions you have a higher chance of getting pregnant. There is also the possibility if you are over 70kg (11 stones) the POP will not work.
Combined Pill
The combined pill otherwise know as the ‘pill’ contains two hormones, estrogen and progestogen. The pill is normally taken over 21 days of your cycle, with a 7 day break at the end. The pill is around 99% effective with less than 1 woman in a 100 becoming pregnant. This is the most common method of contraception taken in the UK.
