Long Term Contraception
Long term contraception methods can be a really good choice, especially if you do not think you will want to be pregnant for a few years. They may be ideal if you are not very good at remembering to take a pill everyday or if you want to use a concealed method of contraception. They are long-lasting, reliable and easily reversed.
These methods provide protection against pregnancy only. For protection against sexually transmitted infections as well, use in conjunction with condoms.
The Contraceptive Injection
The injection contains one hormone, progesterone, and is given into your bottom or arm. It prevents you getting pregnant for 12 weeks. The injection can have side-effects such as making your periods irregular and sometimes causing weight gain. It’s important to talk this over with the doctor or nurse before choosing this method.
The Contraceptive Implant
The implant is a flexible tube about the size of a match. It contains the hormone progesterone. It works for 3 years. The doctor or nurse places this under the skin in your arm. The arm is first numbed and then the implant is injected into the arm.
The ‘Coil’
The correct name for these methods is intra-uterine device (IUD) or intra-uterine system (IUS). These are small plastic devices placed by a doctor or nurse through the vagina into the womb. The IUD has a copper wire and the IUS contains a hormone, progesterone. These methods last several years.
The coil is more popular with women after they have had a baby, but can also be used by women who have never been pregnant.
The IUD can also sometimes be used as emergency contraception to prevent a pregnancy after unprotected sex.
Long-Term Contraception Services in Kingston
There's new contraceptive clinic at The Wolverton Centre at Kingston Hospital.
The Wolverton Centre
Kingston Hospital
Galsworthy Road
Kingston KT2 7QB
Wednesdays 2.00pm - 4.30pm
For information and appointment telephone: 020 8974 9331.
More information
For more information about these methods of contraception, drop into a Ku19 Clinic, family planning clinic, or ask your GP.
Also see:
- Ku19 Clinics
For sexual health advice and contraception, visit a Ku19 clinic.