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Contraception

Where can I get condoms from?

Condoms are free from your local youth or family planning clinic and some doctors. Or you can buy them at a local chemist, shop, supermarket, petrol station or vending machine even if you are under 16.

What do I do if the condom splits?

If a condom splits then you must act quickly and visit your local doctor or clinic as soon as possible for advice about emergency contraception. The emergency contraceptive pill (sometimes known as the morning after pill) can be taken up to 72 hours after the condom splits (the sooner you take it the more effectively it will work) and is free from the doctor, nurse or a NHS Sexual Health clinic. Alternatively you can buy emergency contraceptive pills from your local chemist. Even if it is more than 72 hours after the condom split go and seek advice from your doctor or clinic as they are specially trained to help you and can talk to you about your options. If you put the condom on correctly in the first place it is very unlikely to split, so make sure you read the instructions carefully in every pack.

What is the best contraception?

There are loads of options when it comes to contraception so it's a good idea to visit your GP, nurse, or a NHS Sexual Health (GUM), Young Persons' Sexual Health, or Family Planning clinic to find out what suits you best. Remember, even if you are under 16 you have the right to free, confidential advice on sex, contraception and abortion. Whatever type of contraception you choose remember that you always need to use a condom to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Do you put on weight taking the pill?

The contraceptive pill works by controlling the hormones in a girl's body and this can sometimes change your appetite which can cause weight change. However, everyone's body is different and this may not happen to you at all. The best thing to do is to visit a doctor or clinic where they will be able to give you loads of information about the pill. Remember you can get free and confidential advice about contraception even if you are under 16.

What are female condoms/femidoms?

The female condom or femidom is a soft condom for women. It's designed to line the vagina and stop sperm getting into it. It is loose fitting and will move during sex but as long as the boy's penis stays in it, you will be protected against STIs and pregnancy. There are instructions on the packet which you should read and follow carefully.

Used properly, the female condom is 95% effective in preventing pregnancy, compared with 98% for the male condom and 99% for the pill.

Your local clinic or doctor can give you more information free and in total confidence, even if you are under 16.

What is the law on getting contraception/condoms?

Even though the law says you should be 16 or older to have sex, it is totally legal to get free condoms from your local family planning clinic, or buy them at a chemist, supermarket, petrol station or vending machine under the age of 16. You can also get other contraception like the pill legally if you are under 16, provided that your doctor or nurse are satisfied you know what you're doing and understand any potential side effects.

Think carefully if you're under 16 and considering sex for the first time. It's a big step, so make sure you are ready and doing it for the right reasons, not just because all your mates say they've done it. Always remember that only condoms can protect you against both pregnancy and STIs. Check out our 'In Your Area' section for more free, confidential advice on sex, contraception and relationships.