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Contraception - Choosing contraception

Which contraception is right for me?

Contraception protects against pregnancy. There are many methods of contraception currently available in the UK.

Contraception needs to be used until the menopause. This is two years after last having a period if you’re aged under 50, or one year if aged over 50. This advice may be different if you’re using hormonal contraception. Most contraceptives are designed for use by women. However, the External (male) condom remains a popular choice.

It’s worth taking the time to find out more about each method so you can choose one that suits you. Of themany methods, two are specifically for men – the external (male) condom and male sterilisation (vasectomy) – and the others are for women. The type that works best for you will depend on your age, health and circumstances. For example do you want to make contraception part of your daily routine or not? Do you mind if your periods change? What if you can’t use hormonal contraceptives?

Does contraception affect future fertility?

Use of some hormonal contraceptive methods is associated with delays in the return of fertility, with injectable contraceptives showing the longest delay (1 year) However, there is little or no lasting effect of long term use of these methods on the chance of getting pregnant when you are ready to try.

How can I find a contraceptive service?

Three quarters of contraception is provided in primary care, the rest by pharmacies and sexual health clinics. Emergency contraception is also available from your GP, sexual health clinics and pharmacies. You can buy External (male) and Internal (female)condoms from chemists, as well as from vending machines, supermarkets, garages and other shops.

Sexual health supplies

You can get free condoms in a range of sizes and types, including latex free, through the Sexual Health Wales condom order service. You can also get other supplies, including:

  • Lube/Lubricant.
  • Dams: These are used for oral sex and we can supply latex free versions.

If you can’t find what you need on our ordering platform, please get in touch with us: [email protected]

Order your free sexual health supplies

Page last reviewed: 26th November 2025