Where can I get contraception? - Your contraception guide
Secondary navigation
- Getting started
- Methods of contraception
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Which is best for me?
Things to consider
Methods that may help heavy or painful periods
Methods you need to think about every day
Methods you need to think about every time you have sex
Methods that last months or years
Methods that protects against STIs (sexually transmitted infections)
Permanent methods
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Worries and questions
Using contraception effectively
I've had unprotected sex
Contraception after a baby
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Questions about the pill
Missed pills and extra pills
Being on the pill
You can get contraception free of charge, even if you're under 16, from:
- contraception clinics
- sexual health or GUM (genitourinary medicine) clinics
- some GP surgeries
- some young people's services
- pharmacies
If you're under 16
Contraception services are free and confidential, including for people under the age of 16.
If you're under 16 and want contraception, the doctor, nurse or pharmacist won't tell your parents or carer, as long as they believe you fully understand the information you're given and the decisions you're making.
Doctors and nurses work under strict guidelines when dealing with people under 16. They'll encourage you to consider telling your parents, but they won't make you.
The only time a professional might want to tell someone else is if they believe you're at risk of harm, such as abuse. The risk would need to be serious, and they would usually discuss this with you first.
Page last reviewed: 7 April 2024
Next review due: 7 April 2024