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Where can I get contraception?

Most types of contraception are available for free in the UK. Contraception is free to all women and men through the NHS. Places where you can get contraception include:

  • most GP surgeries - talk to your GP or practice nurse
  • community contraception clinics
  • some genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics
  • sexual health clinics - they also offer contraceptive and STI testing services
  • some young people's services (call the Department of Health's Sexual Health Line on 0300 123 7123 for more information)

You can find your nearest sexual health clinic, including contraception clinics, by searching your postcode or town.

Contraception services are free and confidential, including for people under the age of 16.

If you're under 16

If you're under 16 and want contraception, the doctor, nurse or pharmacist won't tell your parents or carer, as long as they believe you fully understand the information you're given, and your decisions.

Doctors and nurses work under strict guidelines when dealing with people under 16. They'll encourage you to consider telling your parents, but they won't make you.

The only time that a doctor or nurse might want to tell someone else is if they believe you're at risk of harm, such as abuse. The risk would need to be serious, and they would usually discuss this with you first.

Find out more about sex, contraception and young people.

 

Article provided by NHS Choices

See original on NHS Choices

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