Contraception is used to help prevent an unplanned pregnancy. There are many methods of contraception to choose from and all of the methods are available from clinics in Salford.
Most women want to use a method of contraception that is safe, reliable, and does not require too much thinking about. There are four methods that fit this description: contraceptive implants, IUDs (intrauterine devices), IUSs (intrauterine systems), and contraceptive injections. These are long-acting methods of contraception (LARC). Other popular methods include the contraceptive pill and the progestogen-only pill.
For more information on your contraceptive choices, you can book an appointment with one of the services below to discuss your options:
You may find other useful information about contraception on:
You can use emergency contraception if you’ve had sex without using contraception, or if your method of contraception has failed, in the last five days (120 hours). Emergency contraception can reduce the chance of becoming pregnant, but you must act fast!
There are two types of emergency contraception:
You need to take the emergency contraceptive pill within three days (Levonelle) or five days (ellaOne) of unprotected sex for it to be effective. However, the sooner you take it, the more effective it'll be.
An IUD can be fitted up to five days after unprotected sex, or up to five days after the earliest time you could have ovulated, for it to be effective.
The most effective form of emergency contraception is the intrauterine device. Contact Salford’s Sexual Health Service on 0161 206 1099 if you want to get an IUD fitted, do mention it is for emergency contraception.
Women, including young women, can get emergency hormonal contraception, free of charge, from:
For more information about emergency contraception visit the Sexwise website.
The BHA charity have produced a guide to contraception, which is available in English, French and Arabic.
They have also made the following videos showing text stories inspired by real life conversations which aim to promote discussion and create awareness about contraception.
If you've had unprotected sex or the condom failed it is really important to also consider your risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and to think about your long-term contraception needs. The Sexual Health service above can help with advice about STIs.