Contraception And Having Safe Sex: Just The Facts

Using contraception is key to ensuring you have safe sex with your partner.

Contraception is used to stop unwanted pregnancy, and to make sure sexually transmitted infections (STI) (7 Facts About Sexually Transmitted Infections) are not passed on. When contraception is used correctly, it is very effective.

When to use contraception

• Every time young people have sex together they should always use contraception that prevents both pregnancy and STIs, unless they have decided they are ready and want to have a baby
• When young men have sex with other young men, they should always practice safe sex by using a condom (for anal and oral sex) to protects against STIs
• When young women have sex with other young women, they should use a condom when sharing sex toys and a dental dam (a thin, flexible piece of latex that protects against direct mouth-to-genital contact) during oral sex.

If you have had unprotected sex, you may be at risk of STIs or pregnancy. If you have recently had unprotected sex, you may need emergency contraception. Seek advice straight away from your school nurse, GP or your local sexual health clinic.

It’s important to consider which form of contraception is right for you and your partner. If you have any questions or want to know more, speak to your school nurse, visit your local sexual health clinic or visit your GP.

Emergency Contraception

• If you’ve had unprotected sex and don’t want to get pregnant, you can take the Emergency Hormonal Contraceptive (EHC) pill. It’s commonly known as the ‘Morning after Pill’ although this name is misleading as the pill can be taken up to 72 hours (three days) after  having unprotected sex
• Talk to your school nurse- they’re there to support you  
• The EHC is available for free from Sexual Health Clinics, Urgent Care Centres and selected Pharmacies. It’s always a good idea to phone ahead to see if it’s available
• You can also have a coil inserted into the womb (uterus) which will prevent pregnancies. This can be done up to 5 days after unprotected sex and can be left in to prevent pregnancies
• EHC is more effective the sooner you take it, so act fast
• Only women can get emergency contraception
• Emergency contraception shouldn’t be used as a regular contraceptive.

How to get help

If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your school nurse.

• w: NHS- Getting Contraception
  
• w: Childline- Sex
  
• w: BBC Radio 1- Contraception