Other Methods

The intrauterine device (IUD) or 'coil' is a small plastic and copper device that is fitted into your womb. They can only be fitted by a trained doctor or nurse and last for 3-10 years depending on the type. They are 98-99% effective at preventing pregnancy but do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

Intrauterine Systems (IUS) - an IUS is a small T-shaped plastic device which contains hormones. A trained doctor or nurse will put it into your womb. It then slowly releases hormones for up to five years and is more than 99% effective.
Natural family planning - you are naturally only fertile for 8-9 days each month.

Natural planning is when 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. If used properly they are around 98% effective against pregnancy but offer no protection against STDs. These techniques should be taught by a proper NFP teacher.

Rhythm / Withdrawal - this is when unprotected sex takes place but the man pulls his penis out before 'coming' or ejaculating as this is when most sperm is released. This method is highly unreliable and should not be used under any circumstances as smaller amounts of sperm are released prior to ejaculation - and it only takes one! Very poor rate of success and offers no protection against STDs either. Leave it well alone.

Sterilisation - a permanent method of preventing pregnancy that involves an operation. Both men and women can be sterilised; the operation is a more serious one for women than for men. It is rarely performed on people who haven't yet any children or younger people who may change their minds later. The operation is more than 99% effective at preventing future pregnancies but offers no protection against STDs.

Emergency Contraception - if you have had sex without using contraception, or if your contraception might have failed, you can use emergency contraception. Emergency contraceptive pills will prevent at least seven out of eight pregnancies that would have occurred if no emergency contraception had been taken if taken within 24 hours of having sex. They will not protect you from pregnancy if you have further unprotected sex. They can be obtained from your GP, Chemist (if aged 16 or over) or Family Planning Clinic. They are more effective the sooner the first pill is taken after sex, although still not as effective as traditional methods of contraception. They offer no protection against STDs.

Or even…. Don't have full sex! Experiment with other forms of intimacy including touch, massage, cuddling, kissing, petting and mutual masturbation. There's not just one route to orgasm you know, and if you're ready to get up close and personal but NOT ready to kiss your virginity goodbye (or sleep with your new man even if you aren't a virgin), then you don't have to. Be brave, be bold and do what you think is right for you. Never let anybody bully you into having sex too soon.

For more information on these and other methods of contraception we recommend visiting the website of the Family Planning Association.

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