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You don't have to be having sex to ask for contraceptive advice.

It is important to sort out your contraception before you have sex. If you have decided that you are ready, you and your partner can make sure you are protected from STIs and unplanned pregnancy.

Have a look at the Am I ready for sex page for advice if you are not sure about having sex. Having sex before you're ready can lead to regret and also means you are more likely to take risks, such as having unprotected sex.

There are many different methods of contraception and different types suit different people. You have to remember to use some types every day or every time you have sex, such as condoms and the pill.

Some types of contraception are long-lasting, such as the injection, implant and coil (IUD and IUS). These long-lasting types of contraception are the most reliable way you can protect yourself from unplanned pregnancy. You don't have to think about them every day or every time you have sex. These types of contraception are sometimes called Long Acting Reversible Contraception, or 'LARC' for short.

Remember, only condoms protect against STIs. You can get free condoms from the Medway C Card scheme

Check out all the options in this section to help you decide which method is best for you. You can also visit your local contraceptive and sexual health clinic to discuss your choices with a nurse or doctor. Find your nearest clinic using our Find a Service page.

Pages in this section

• Emergency contraception
• Long Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC)
• Condoms
• Female condoms
• Contraceptive pill
• Contraceptive patch
• Vaginal ring
• Injection
• Implant
• Intra-Uterine Device (IUD)
• Intra-Uterine System (IUS)