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There are many types of contraception to suit different lifestyles, health needs, and future plans. Whether you want something short-term, long-acting, hormonal, or hormone-free, there’s an option that can work for you and you have a choice. Take time to explore which option is right you. A healthcare professional can help you find the method that best fits your individual circumstances, and it’s okay to switch if your needs change.
Make sure you are using safe and reliable support and information.
What are my options?
The Contraception Choices website provides information on the effectiveness, risks and benefits of each sort. You may already know what you want. If not, this tool may help you decide what is best for you.
Where can I access contraception?
Condoms are the only contraception that protects against pregnancy, STIs and HIV. Used correctly, they're 98% effective. If you are unsure how to use condoms correctly, you can watch our short video showing you how to use a condom the right way.
‘Get It ‘provide free condoms which can either be posted out to you. Click here to register and start accessing free condoms, STI tests, and support. Some pharmacists also provide free condoms (6 regular size). Use the map below to find your nearest service.
Your GP can provide the contraceptive pill free of charge. You can also access the contraceptive pill free without a prescription from pharmacies across Hertfordshire. To find your nearest participating pharmacy visit the National Pharmacy Contraception Service.
Some GPs offer other types of contraception such as the coil or implant which are known as Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC). LARC methods don’t rely on you having to remember to take anything and are ideal if you don’t want to become pregnant for a while. Speak to your GP for more details.
Please note: For a procedure fitted within sexual health, there could be a small waiting list. You will require a telephone consultation with one of our healthcare professionals before a procedure appointment, even if you have spoken with your GP about this previously.
To book in for a telephone consultation, please call our single point of access team on 0300 008 5522.
If you're due to have your coil removed or replaced and are unsure of what coil device you currently have, please contact your original provider to find out this information before you have your consultation.
Appointments for the contraceptive injection can be accessed via a walk-in session at one of our clinics, using our online booking portal or by calling our single point of access team on the number above.
The contraceptive patch and ring is readily available from services within Hertfordshire. Please check with your GP first that these options are available within your registered GP practice.
If you would like to attend a Hertfordshire sexual health clinic for the contraceptive patch or ring, appointments can be accessed via a walk-in session at one of our clinics, using our online booking portal or by calling our single point of access team on 0300 008 5522.
Information about Emergency contraception and where you can get it from can be found on our Emergency Contraception section.
Which methods are best at preventing pregnancy?
If an unplanned pregnancy would be a big concern, the implant, the injection, the IUS and the IUD are the best at preventing pregnancies. Because they are long acting, you don't need to remember to use them every day. The below image demonstrates the range and effectiveness of different types of contraception.
How do I know which contraceptive is right for me?
The Contraception Choices ‘What’s Right for Me’ tool can help you to consider the different options which may suit you best. You can also speak to a GP, Pharmacy, or one of the sexual health clinics in Hertfordshire to help you make your decision.
Are there any non-hormonal options available?
The copper coil contains no hormones and is very effective at preventing pregnancy. Other non-hormonal options are the diaphragm, condom or fertility awareness method.
Does hormonal birth control cause cancer?
The risk of developing cancer from hormonal birth control is very small and, in some cases, they reduce cancer risks. It is important to consider other factors which affect your cancer risk, such as lifestyle and genetics, when making the right choice for you.
Any other questions?
- For more information about contraception including answers to more frequently asked questions please visit Contraception Choices.
- You can also speak to a healthcare professional anonymously and in confidence through our Chat Health service. Simply text 07312263535 within the opening times listed and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.
- Click here to find your nearest Sexual Health Hertfordshire clinic or call 0300 008 5522 to speak to one of the team.
Chat Sexual Health
This gives Hertfordshire residents the opportunity to speak to a health professional anonymously and in confidence about their sexual health via text message. The SMS service is confidential and you can choose to provide your details if you would like to, but you do not have to.
To speak to a healthcare professional, simply text* 07312263535 within the opening times listed and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.
Sexual Health Hertfordshire Clinics
Click here to find your nearest Sexual Health Hertfordshire clinic or call 0300 008 5522 to speak to one of the team.
