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There are 15 methods of contraception available in the UK.  To find out more about what they are, how to use them, where to get them and find the one that suits you visit YorSexualhealth.

You can also talk through the different methods with a doctor or nurse at any of the contraception and sexual health clinics in North Yorkshire and York. Click here to find your local clinic.

Some of the things you might want to think about when choosing a method of contraception are:

• whether you (or a partner) want to become pregnant fairly soon, many years away or not at all

• how you (and a partner) want contraception to suit your lifestyle

• whether you (or a partner) want to use the method every day, every time you have sex or less often.

Do I have to be 16 to use contraception?

No. If you are under 16 you can get confidential advice and contraception.  Health workers (nurses, doctors and pharmacists) work under very specific guidance with this age group.  You must be mature enough to understand the advice and any decisions made about giving you contraception.

Will my parents/carers be told if I am given contraception?

Health workers have to keep anything you tell them private. but they will usually encourage you to talk to your parent or carer.

If a health worker thinks there is a risk to your health, safety or welfare they might need to share your information with someone else.  The risk would need to be serious and the health worker would usually discuss this with you first.

• The FPA have a comprehensive guide to all the contraceptive methods, what they are, how to use them, where to get them and the advantages and disadvantages of each method: www.fpa.org.uk/helpandadvice/contraception

• Your guide to contraceptive choices – after you’ve had your baby
  Choosing contraception after you've given birth.

• Emergency contraception. If you have had unprotected sex, that is, sex without using contraception, or think your contraception might have failed, you can use emergency contraception.

To access Emergency Contraception women can contact their Local Family Planning Clinics, over 70 Pharmacies across North Yorkshire and York, or their GP.  The York Walk-In centre can also provide Emergency Contraception. 

For further information, please see the Contraception factsheet.