Contraception
There are many different types of contraception, and some work better than others for different people. Some types (condoms) can help to stop the spread of sexually transmitted infections, but most just prevent pregnancy.
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Emergency contraception
If you have had sex without using contraception, or think your contraception might have failed, you can use emergency contraception.
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Barrier methods
Barrier methods of contraception work by physically stopping the sperm from fertilising the egg.
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Short-acting methods
Short-acting methods of contraception work by releasing hormones.
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Long-acting methods
Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods don’t rely on you remembering to take them, but they do need a trained doctor or nurse to administer or fit them for you.
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Permanent methods
Permanent methods of contraception involve male or female sterilisation.
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Natural family planning
Natural family planning is when a woman works out when she’s in the most fertile phase of her monthly cycle, and avoids sex without contraception during this time.
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Contraception mythbusters
Get the facts on contraception.
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See the FPA website for a range of downloadable leaflets on contraception and sexually transmitted infections.