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Contraception Overview
There are no age restrictions on giving contraceptive advice and supplies. A doctor is allowed to prescribe contraception for those under 16 without the consent or knowledge of their parents. However, a doctor can inform the parents if they don’t think the patient is mature enough.
With so many different kinds of contraception available that there's no need to just cross your fingers and hope for the best.
Barrier methods
These are the only methods that can prevent disease and unwanted pregnancies (apart from celibacy, of course). They include male and female condoms, the cap, and the diaphragm. They physically prevent sperm entering the uterus (womb), and condoms also stop viruses and bacteria being passed from one partner to another.
Oral contraceptives
Users can choose between the combined pill(oestrogen and progestogen) and the POP or 'mini pill' (progestogen only). The combined pill stops the woman releasing an egg each month (ovulation). The mini pill works in a different way, but may also prevent ovulation.
other hormone methods
There is a choice between a contraceptive injection and an implant that is placed under the skin during a quick operation. The original implants that had all the bad press about side-effects are not being used any more.
Intrauterine devices
These are tiny devices (about the size of a matchstick) inserted into the womb through the vagina and cervix. There are several different types, including a new one that contains slow release hormones. They stop sperm meeting an egg, or may stop a fertilised egg from settling in the womb.
Natural family planning
The woman uses natural indicators, such as changes in her body temperature, to tell her what days she is fertile each month. When she knows she is fertile, she and her partner avoid sex or use a barrier method such as condoms. These techniques can be complicated and take a while to learn.
Emergency
If you have messed up and had unprotected sex then go here
Sterlisation
It's a permanent method of preventing pregnancy for men or women who have decided they don't want any more kids. It is unlikely that a UK surgeon would perform a sterilisation operation on a young person who hasn't had any children - people have a habit of changing their minds if they divorce and remarry.
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