Condom

A thin latex or polyurethane sheath rolled over an erect penis before sex. It is important that when using condoms they have the Europeanmark and that they have not gone past they expiry date. It is also important to make sure that there are no holes or tears in the packet and that no oil based products come into contact with the condoms e.g. baby oil or Vaseline. Condoms are 98% effective when used correctly and can help protect against STI’s, pregnancy and HIV.

Cap (diaphragm)

A form of contraception (also known as diaphragm). The cap is a dome-shaped device made from latex rubber. It sits at the neck of the womb to block sperm from reaching a woman’s eggs. Must be used with spermicidal jelly, which kills sperm. It is between 92 –96% effective if used correctly but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Coil (IUD – Intra-Uterine Device)

Small plastic and copper device, sometimes T-shaped, which is inserted into the womb and can protect against pregnancy. Can also be used as emergency contraception up to five days after unprotected sex. It is around 99% effective is used correctly but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Combined Pill

A contraceptive pill that is taken every day and prevents pregnancy. The combined pill is usually just called the pill and is over 99% effective is used correctly but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Dental Dam

A small sheet of latex which acts as a barrier between the vagina or anus and mouth, used during oral sex. Can protect against some sexually transmitted infections. For more info click here

Emergency Contraception (Often known as Morning After Pill)

Emergency contraception can be used if a contraceptive method fails (for instance a condom splits or a pill is missed or no contraception is used at all)

There are two forms of emergency contraception – the emergency contraceptive pill (taken within 72 hours) and the emergency IUD (inserted within 5 days). The sooner they are taken the more effective they are. The pills and IUD are over 98% effective if used correctly but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Femidom/Female Condom

The female condom fits inside the vagina and held in place by a ring at either end. The female condom is wider than a male condom and will stop sperm getting through. It is 95% effective if used correctly and can protect against some STI’s and pregnancy

Implants

A small flexible rod containing progestogen. It is inserted under the skin, usually on the upper part of the arm, and will protect against pregnancy for three years. It is over 99% effective but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Injections

A contraceptive injection that lasts for 12 weeks and will protect against pregnancy. It is over 99% effective if used correctly but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Intra-Uterine System (IUS)

Small plastic T-shaped device that releases progestogen. It is fitted into the uterus by a doctor or nurse and can protect against pregnancy for up to 5 years. It is over 99% effective if used correctly but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Mini Pill/Progestogen Only Pill

This pill only contains progestogen, which affects the cervical mucus so sperm can’t reach the egg. It can also make it difficult for an egg, which has been fertilised to implant in the uterus. In some women it stops ovulation (the release of an egg). It is 99% effective if used correctly but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Patch

A small patch that sticks on the skin and releases the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. It is over 99% effective if used correctly in preventing a pregnancy but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.