The surgery offers a full range of options for contraception. Please feel free to discuss your options with any of the doctors or the practice nurse. We will also give advice about the prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections.
Post coital contraception (The "morning after pill")
This is not a reliable method of preventing pregnancy but can be used if you have had unprotected intercourse within the past 72 hours. There are several different options so please speak to one of the Doctors or the nurse as soon as possible.
Caps and condoms can be used successfully to prevent pregnancy but do carry a higher risk of failure than other methods. we recommend that you use a spermicidal preparation at the same time to reduce the risk of failure.
There are many different types of oral contraceptive pills. Please discuss with your doctor or the nurse which pill would be right for you.
IUD's or coils are becoming more popular. They are ideal if you wish to have long term protection against getting pregnant. There are several different types available, so please discuss with your doctor whether a coil may be suitable for you.
A hormone implant, usually placed in the upper arm, can provide very effective contraception for up to three years. This is one of the safest methods of contraception available.
Injections
Injectable depo contraceptives are available which need to be given every 12 weeks. This is also a very effective and safe method.
Referral for male or female sterilization
Male sterilization is a very effective method of preventing pregnancy, but is permanent so you must be sure you never want any more children. Female sterilization is also very effective but requires an internal operation and general anaesthetic. We normally recommend alternatives to sterilization which are just as effective but safer than a major operation. Please feel free to discuss this with your doctor.
