Contraception allows people to choose when and if they want to have a baby. There are several types of contraception, which work in different ways. Most contraceptives are designed for use by women. However, the male condom remains a popular choice.

Before recommending a contraceptive, your Doctor will assess your age, medical history and sexual lifestyle. No contraceptive is 100% reliable and some have side effects. It is important to consider these factors when deciding what sort of protection to use.

You may need to change your contraception as you get older, after having children or if your sexual lifestyle changes. It is worth remembering that the male condom is the only form of contraception that also protects you from sexually transmitted diseases. In all cases contraceptive methods are more reliable if used properly.

All the practice doctors and nurses offer advice about family planning, including the pill. Coils can be fitted in the surgery, but you should discuss this with Dr Madeleine Bonsey at a normal surgery appointment first.

Regular Contraception

Regular planned contraception is the simplest, most efficient way to avoid an unplanned pregnancy.

There is lots of good information on family planning on the FPA website, which contains a range of leaflets explaining more about all of the forms of hormonal, intrauterine, barrier and permanent forms of contraception.

Emergency Contraception

If you think you may be at risk of an unwanted pregnancy following recent intercourse, the practice can provide emergency contraception. Common circumstances when this is possible include missed contraceptive pills, condom leakage or unplanned sexual intercourse.

If you had intercourse within 72 hours then the morning-after pill is usually appropriate and can be prescribed by either our nurses or doctors. However, if it is more than 72 hours but less then 5 days, or you are not suitable for the morning-after pill, a copper coil (intra-uterine device) may be appropriate instead.

The morning-after pill is more effective the sooner it is taken. It can also be obtained directly from pharmacies without seeing a doctor or nurse, so you may choose not to delay in obtaining it from us.  It is free from a chemist for 13-21 year olds; for older patients a fee is charged.