Contraception
There are different types of contraception to offer you choice and protection from unintended pregnancies. All of our clinics offer contraception and contraception advice. Choosing the right kind of contraception for you, your body, and your lifestyle can take time, trial and error, and perseverance. There are a range of professionals in Kent who can help you on that journey.
Your GP can provide different types of contraception.
An oral contraception service is now offered through pharmacies in Kent. Find your nearest pharmacy.
Shorter term contraception
The pill
This requires taking a small pill in a regular pattern.
Combined pill
If taken regularly pills can be up to 99% effective. Some medications can have some side effects, however if you are experiencing some experiencing symptoms that you don’t like, you can choose to stop the pill and you can do this very quickly.
Progesterone only
This pill is also known as the mini pill, it needs to be taken every day at the same time for it to be fully effective.
Patch
The patch is a small square patch (5x5cm) that you wear on your skin. You will need to change the patch every 7 days with a new one and have a 7 day break after week 3 every month. It’s 99% effective if you use it correctly all the time.
Vaginal ring
This is a soft and flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina and is around 5cm across. It is in place for 3 weeks, you will then have a 7 day break before putting in a new ring. If used correctly all the time, it is more than 99% effective.
Injections
This requires having frequent injections every 8 to 12 weeks depending on the type used. To avoid pregnancy it is important to have continuity of injectable contraception so you must make sure you know when the next one is due. Menstrual patterns may change and weight gain can be an issue for some using this method.
Longer term contraception
Sub dermal implant
A small device that releases a small daily amount of a progestogen. It is inserted under the skin in the upper part of an arm which provides contraception for 3 years. Changes to bleeding patterns are likely to occur over the first 6 months following insertion until your body adjusts. You could be supported through the additional use of oral contraception if the bleeding becomes a nuisance.
Intrauterine system, also known as the coil
A system, also known as the coil, inserted into the uterus which slowly releases progestogen for up to 8 years. You will be advised to have a screen for sexually transmitted infections before the system is put in. Changes to bleeding patterns may occur during the first 6 months but often settle.
Intrauterine device
A copper device inserted into the uterus which provides contraception for up 5 to 10 years, depending on the type used. You will be advised to have a screen for sexually transmitted infections before the device is put in. Changes to bleeding patterns may result in heavier periods.