Emergency help
- Could I have an STI?
Sexually transmitted infection - I think I might be Pregnant
Pregnant - I've had sex without a condom
Unprotected sex - I've been pushed into sex
Unwanted sex - I forgot to take my pill
Taking the pill
The pill ... and other hormonal contraceptives
Girls can take a small tablet each day to stop them getting pregnant.
The contraceptive pill is a tablet girls take every day to stop them getting pregnant or to sort out irregular, heavy or painful periods.
Do you have to be 16 to get the pill?
No. Even though sex under 16 is against the law in the UK, you can still get free and confidential advice about contraception. Even if you're under 16, it's legal for your doctor, or a nurse, to give you advice and prescribe treatments like the pill without telling your parents. The doctor will want to make sure you understand the decisions you are making and may encourage you to talk to your parents before going any further. Don't be scared to ask for help.
More facts about the pill:
You get the pill from a doctor or from a local family planning clinic; you can't buy it in the shops.
The pill contains hormones and it works by stopping an egg from being released from the ovaries each month.
It is almost 100% effective in stopping pregnancy as long it's taken correctly.
You should always follow the instructions on the packet, particularly if you forget to take a pill or are poorly while you are taking it.
There are lots of different types of pill to choose from and a doctor or nurse at your local clinic will help you decide which one is right for you.
The pill is free and girls who have started their periods can use it.
The pill stops pregnancy and usually makes periods lighter and less painful — but it won't protect you from picking up an STI.
Hormone injection
If you don't think you'll remember to take a tablet every day you can have an injection instead.
The injection contains hormones too and works in the same way as the pill.
It is given by your doctor or clinic and it will stop you getting pregnant for up to 12 weeks. This may have some side effects if you are under 18, so get some advice from your GP or nurse before you make your decision.
An injection won't stop you from catching STIs (condoms are the best method to protect you from catching an STI), and you'll need to have an injection regularly or you won't be protected from unplanned pregnancy.
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