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Contraception

Contraception is used to prevent pregnancy. Some types of contraception, for example condoms can help prevent you catching or spreading sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

Types of contraception

There is a range of different contraceptive options available. The type that works best for you will depend on your health and situation.

Contraception is recommended to anyone who is sexually active and not trying to get pregnant. 

 You can start by finding out about the types of contraception, how they work, who can use

them and possible side effects by visiting the Sexwise page on contraception.

 Watch the videos below by Brook about some common types of contraception. You can take the Brook quiz if you are unsure which type is right for you. 

 

Video 1 of 4

Where can I get free contraception?

Contraception is free on the NHS for all ages so you won’t have to pay anything. You can get it from a range of places such as GP surgeries, sexual health clinics and young person services. 

What you talk about with a doctor or nurse is private and confidential. The legal age to consent to sex is 16. Any sexual activity with someone under 16 is against the law. If you are under 16, you are still able to access sexual health services, see a doctor or nurse without getting in trouble. The services are there to support you, not to judge you or report you. This includes getting advice from a doctor, nurse or someone else in a clinic, accessing contraception, and getting tested and treated for STIs. Doctors and nurses will only pass on information if they think you or someone else is in danger or being taken advantage of.

Visit our page on your right to privacy and confidentiality for more information. 

 If you are aged between 13 and 24 years old visit our page on C-Card to find out how to get free condoms. 

Sexual Health services in West Yorkshire

Kirklees Call 030 3330 9981 Mon to Thurs 8am to 5pm, Fri 8am to 3.30pm and Sat 9.30am to 11:30am

Bradford Call 030 3330 9500 Mon to Thurs 8am to 5pm, Fri 8am to 4.15pm and Sat 9.30am to 11:30am

Craven Call 01904 721111 Mon to Thurs 8.15am to 5pm, Fri 8.15am to 3.30pm and Sat 9am to 12pm

Calderdale Call 01422 261370 Mon to Fri 9am to 1pm

Wakefield Call 0800 1214860 Mon to Thurs 8.15am to 7pm and Fri 8.15am to 4pm 

Leeds Call 0113 392 0333 or complete this form for advice 

Remember you can also access sexual health advice and contraception from your GP surgery. 

If you need advice out of hours you can call 111.  

Under 18 Drop In

 Leeds Sexual Health at the Merrion Centre (1st floor). If you are under 18 and need contraception, or STI testing or STI treatment, please come to drop in sessions on Monday and Wednesday from 3pm to 5pm. You will be seen on the day if possible. This is for young people who are 17 or younger.


Leeds have a live chat Monday to Friday 1.30pm to 4pm for sexual health service accessible by visiting their website

 Locala run under 18s Queue and Wait clinics (no appointment needed, just turn up) in the following locations:

  • Every Monday: 3.30pm to 7pm at Princess Royal Health Centre, Greenhead Road, Huddersfield, HD1 4EW
  • Every Tuesday: 3.30pm to 7pm at Cleckheaton Health Centre, Greenside, Cleckheaton, BD19 5AP
  • Every Wednesday: 3.30pm to 6.30pm at Howard House, 2nd floor, 6 Bank Street, Bradford, BD1 1EE

Calderdale Sexual Health Service  Broad Street Plaza, Halifax HX1 1UB Mondays 3pm to 5pm

Advice

 Text Chat Health Leeds 07520 619 750, Calderdale 07480 635297 or Bradford and Kirklees 07312 263032. Chat Health aim to reply to your text message within 24 hours 8.30am to 4pm, Mon to Fri. 

You can find other local sexual health services through the NHS website.

Pharmacies
  • You may be able to get free condoms with a C-Card 
  • If you are over 16, you may be able to buy the pill over the counter if you are already on it