Contraception is used to prevent unintended pregnancies. There are many types to choose from and different methods suit different people. Some require a procedure to have them fitted and removed.
Condoms are the only method of contraception which will protect you against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Implant
A small rod which releases the hormone progestogen is placed in the upper arm under the skin
- Over 99% effective
- Lasts up to 3 years
- Periods can be irregular or stop completely
Some GPs are able to fit and remove implants, ask your GP if this is a service they offer.
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Read more about the contraceptive implant on the nhs.uk website
See an easy read leaflet about the implant (from EasyHealth)
Injection
Progestogen is injected into the muscle normally your buttock.
- Over 99% effective (if you get your repeat injections on time, as advised)
- Lasts for 8-13 weeks
- Periods may be lighter or stop
Some GPs are able to offer the contraceptive injection, ask your GP if this is a service they offer.
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Read more about the contraceptive injection on the nhs.uk website
See an easy read leaflet about the injection (from EasyHealth)
IUS (also known as the coil)
A small T-shaped plastic device is placed in the uterus
- Over 99% effective
- Lasts up to 5 years
- Periods may be lighter or stop
- Fitting can be uncomfortable
Some GPs are able to fit and remove an IUS, ask your GP if this is a service they offer.
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Read more about the IUS on the nhs.uk website
See an easy read leaflet about the IUS (from EasyHealth)
IUD (also known as the copper coil)
A small plastic and copper device is placed in the uterus
- Over 99% effective
- Lasts for 5-10 years
- Periods may be heavier/longer
- Fitting can be uncomfortable
Some GPs are able to fit and remove an IUD, ask your GP if this is a service they offer.
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Read more about the IUD on the nhs.uk website
See an easy read leaflet about the IUD (from EasyHealth)
Condoms (for penis)
Thin latex or plastic sheath is put over the erect penis
- 98% effective if used properly
- Protects against STIs
- Need to remember before sex
Watch a video on how to put a condom on correctly on our C-Card page. You can also find information on this page on how to register for a C-Card, to get free condoms in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, Shropshire, and Telford & Wrekin.
Find out how to use external condoms safely here.
Read more about the condoms for penises on the nhs.uk website
Condoms (for vagina)
Thin plastic sheath that lines the vagina and covers the outer area of the vagina
- 95% effective if used correctly
- Protects against STIs
- Need to remember before sex
- Periods won’t change
Read more about condoms for vaginas on the nhs.uk website
The Contraceptive Pill
Need your next supply of oral contraception? You can now arrange to collect it directly from selected local pharmacies.
Click here to find a pharmacy near you that offers oral contraception.
Combined pill
The pill contains oestrogen and progestogen and is taken orally
- 99% effective with perfect use, 91% effective with typical use
- You need to take it every day around the same time
- Can reduce period pain and bleeding
- You can get this from your GP or from a sexual health clinic
Read more about the combined pill on the nhs.uk website
See an easy read leaflet about the contraceptive pill (from EasyHealth)
Progestogen-only pill (POP)
The pill contains progestogen and is taken orally
- 99% effective with perfect use, 91% effective with typical use
- You need to take it every day at the same time
- Can reduce period pain and bleeding
- You can get this from your GP or from a sexual health clinic
Read more about the progestogen-only pill on the nhs.uk website
See an easy read leaflet about the contraceptive pill (from EasyHealth)
Patch
A small, thin, beige coloured patch, which you stick on your skin and it releases oestrogen and progestogen.
- 99% effective with perfect use, 91% effective with typical use
- You have to change the patch once a week
- May make periods more regular, lighter and less painful
Read more about the contraceptive patch on the nhs.uk website