Contraception is free for most people in the UK. With 15 methods to choose from, you'll be able to find one that suits you.
Contraceptive methods allow you to choose when and whether you want to have a baby. However, they don’t protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Condoms help to protect against STIs and pregnancy, so whatever other method of contraception you're using to prevent pregnancy, you should use condoms as well to protect your and your partner’s health.
This page has information on:
The methods of contraception
There are lots of methods to choose from, so don't be put off if the first thing you use isn't quite right for you; you can try another. You can read about each of the different methods of contraception by visiting these pages:
There are two permanent methods of contraception:
Where to get contraception
Contraceptive services are free and confidential, including to people under 16, as long as they're mature enough to understand the information and decisions involved. There are strict guidelines for healthcare professionals who work with people under 16.
You can get contraception free from:
- most GP surgeries (talk to your GP or practice nurse)
- community contraception clinics
- some genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics
- sexual health clinics (these offer contraceptive and STI testing services)
- some young people’s services (call the Department of Health's Sexual Health Helpline on 0800 567 123 for more information)
Find sexual health services near you, including contraception clinics.
Many of these places also offer information, testing and treatment for STIs. If you've been exposed to the risk of pregnancy, you're also at risk of catching an STI.
Before you make an appointment, make sure you know as much as possible about the contraceptive options available. Your choice of contraception may vary over time, depending on your lifestyle and circumstances.
Contraception and menopause
Women who have sex with men and don't want to get pregnant need to keep on using contraception until they haven't had a period for more than 12 months (menopause).
This is because periods can become irregular before they stop entirely, and pregnancy can still occur during this time. Find out more about menopause.
You can find out more about each type of contraception by contacting:
- FPA: a provider of information on individual methods of contraception, common STIs, pregnancy choices, abortion, and planning a pregnancy.
- Brook: the young people's sexual health charity for under-25s.
