Video: Options for contraception

Fast facts

• Remember that to get pregnant a sperm (from the man) must fertilise an egg (in a woman).
• If you’re having sex with someone of the opposite sex, and aren’t looking to get pregnant, it’s important that you use contraception.
• Contraception is both partners’ concern, so it’s a good idea to talk about your options together.
• When deciding what contraception to use, you might want to think about: whether you want to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as pregnancy; how long-lasting you want it to be; and whether you think you will be able to remember to take your contraception.
• Condoms are very effective. They provide a physical barrier between the guy’s semen (cum) and the woman’s vagina. They are the only method of contraception that prevents both pregnancy and STIs including HIV.
• The contraceptive pill is a very effective form of contraception, taken by women. The pills contain hormones which prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation (the release of an egg). Contraceptive pills don’t offer protection from STIs.
• An implant is a very small tube (about four millimetres long) that is inserted just under the skin on a woman’s arm.  It releases hormones that stop ovulation and prevent pregnancy. It can last up to four years, but doesn’t protect against STIs.
• Injections are like the pill and the implant – they stop ovulation through the use of hormones, preventing pregnancy. They don’t protect against STIs.
• Not all of these options are available everywhere, so talk to a local health professional you trust about the options where you are.