What is Contraception?
Contraception covers a range of methods which are used to prevent pregnancy. The type of contraception which works depends on the individual and there is a wide range to choose from. It is important to consider your own overall health and priorities when deciding what works best for you.
As part of the NSU Sexual Health and Guidance (SHAG) Campaigns which take place throughout the year, you will have the opportunity to speak to the wellbeing team about your options.
We also have regular drop in sessions from Children North East who provide sexual health guidance to under 25 year olds. Check out out website for the next session.
This page will outline the contraception options available from the NHS in Newcastle. Most forms of contraception are free through Sexual Health 4 Newcastle, through your GP surgery or by visiting a local pharmacy.
Condoms
Condoms come in 2 different forms, the most common is worn on the penis and the second is a femidom which is inserted into the vagina.
Condoms are made from a very thin latex, synthetic nitrile, polyisoprene or polyurethane, and can be used for vaginal, oral and anal sex.
Condoms are the only option which can prevent pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's)
Key facts about Condoms:
- Only use water based lubricants when using condoms as oil based lubricants can cause a condom to break.
- Condoms generally only break due to oil based lubricants, sharp fingernails, teeth or jewellery.
- Condom sizes are based on width of the penis and not length.
Standard condom size fits approx. 2 inch (50.08mm) width penis.
Large condom size fits approx. 2.52 inch (64mm) width penis - If you are allergic to latex and get soreness or a rash then non-latex options are available.
Where to get Condoms?
- The Students' Union provide free condoms in the wellbeing cupboard at the Students union building next to the Greenhouse cafe, in the wellbeing/food pantry cupboard at Coach Lane West and the wellbeing cupboard near Ask 4 help at the London Campus.
- Children North East run drop in sessions which includes the C-Card scheme for under 25 year olds. Check out out website for the next session.
- Sexual Health 4 Newcastle also provide free condoms in their clinics.
- Most GP surgeries and pharmacies will provide free condoms.
The Combined Pill ("The Pill")
This tablet is taken daily with 1 week off a month for a period.
It is a combination of 2 hormones which are similar to the body's natural hormones.
Key facts about "The Pill":
- Must be taken as required
- Can help to prevent pregnancy however does not provide any protection from STI's.
- Some side effects may be experienced by some individuals.
- Suitability for this method should be discussed with a GP or at a sexual health clinic.
Where to get "The Pill"?
- Children North East run drop in sessions which includes sexual health guidance and contraception advice for under 25 year olds. Check out out website for the next session.
- Sexual Health 4 Newcastle provide a variety of contraception options.
- Most GP surgeries and pharmacies will provide information and contraception.
The Injection (or Depo)
Requires and injection every 3 months in the thigh or buttock.
It contains progestogen which is very similar to the body's hormone.
Long- lasting and convienient for people who struggle to remember to take a pill every day.
Can in some cases temporarily stop periods.
Key facts about The Injection:
- Should it not be suitable it can take a while to wear off.
- Can help to prevent pregnancy however does not provide any protection from STI's.
- Some side effects may be experienced by individuals.
- Suitability for this method should be discussed with a GP or at a sexual health clinic.
Where to get The Injection?
- Children North East run drop in sessions which includes sexual health guidance and contraception advice for under 25 year olds. Check out out website for the next session.
- Sexual Health 4 Newcastle provide a variety of contraception options.
- GP surgeries and pharmacies will provide information and contraception.
The Implant
A soft piece of plastic that is inserted under the skin on the arm.
It contains progestogen which is very similar to the body's hormone.
Lasts for 3 years and convienient for people who struggle to remember to take a pill every day.
Can be removed at any point.
Key facts about The Implant :
- Can help to prevent pregnancy however does not provide any protection from STI's.
- Some side effects may be experienced by individuals.
- Can lighten or reduce frequency of periods.
- Suitability for this method should be discussed with a GP or at a sexual health clinic.
Where to get The Implant ?
- Children North East run drop in sessions which includes sexual health guidance and contraception advice for under 25 year olds. Check out out website for the next session.
- Sexual Health 4 Newcastle provide a variety of contraception options.
- GP surgeries and pharmacies will provide information and contraception.