Contraception
If you have become sexually active and want to prevent pregnancy, then you will need to opt for some sort of contraception. There are quite a lot of different contraception methods to choose from and knowing where to begin can be confusing. Different contraceptives work best for different people depending on many factors such as your lifestyle, medical history, age and your current and future plans.
If you are wanting to start a new contraception and would like to discuss which one would be the right fit for you, our team of experienced female doctors are here to help.
You can freely discuss all your options in a safe, non-judgmental and confidential environment.
We offer the following contraceptives:
- Oral contraceptives
- Implants
- IUD and IUS
- Contraceptive patch
- Diaphragms
What happens during an initial contraception consultation?
During your initial appointment you will discuss why you are considering contraception with our doctor.
They will explain which contraceptive methods would be appropriate for you and go through the benefits and risks for your situation. Together you will make a medical based decision to which contraception method you would like to try.
Depending on which option you choose, you may be able to leave the appointment with medication in hand. Others, meanwhile, may require you to book a follow up appointment. This will be explained to you during your contraception consultation.
What do I need to think about when choosing a contraceptive method?
There are several things you might want to consider:
- How easy it is to use
- How frequently you need to take it
- How effective it is
- Whether you have any underlying health issues
- Possible side effects
Because there is so much to consider, it can be hard to make a decision without professional guidance. That’s why the best starting point is a contraceptive consultation to discuss your options.
How quickly can I be seen?
We are usually able to accommodate same day appointments, however, you can book in advance if you would prefer.
It is uncommon for patients having to wait longer than a week for an appointment. If you can not find a suitable time available online, please call us and we will do our best to accommodate your appointment.
What’s a LARC?
LARC stands for ‘longer-acting, reversible contraception’ and this includes the implant, IUD and IUS coil contraceptives.
This means that once it’s been fitted, it will last for years without you having to do anything (i.e. take it out or put it in) and you can ‘reverse’ them (have them removed) at any time. They are really common for women who would prefer a stress-free contraceptive method without a daily task.
What’s the best contraceptive for protecting against STIs?
The only contraception that protects against STIs are condoms.
The contraceptive options we offer will only protect you against pregnancy and can have some other health benefits such as reducing heavy and painful periods, clearing acne and/ or helping with PCOS symptoms.
If I go on a contraceptive and it doesn’t suit me, can I change my mind?
Absolutely. Sometimes it can take a while to find a contraceptive option that works best for you.
It can be hard to know how someone’s body will respond and what side effects each person might experience. It is really important that you do change your contraception if it isn’t working for you – please don’t suffer in silence.
Our Patients Speak for Us
Mark Tebbit
On repeated occasions over the last year, I have received A1 treatment from the Fleet Street Clinic. Short-notice appointments, face to face and on the phone, for emergency conditions and quick prescriptions from excellent doctors have helped me enormously. The Reception Team are also highly professional. I couldn't recommend it more strongly.
Somerton Elliott
For several years I have relied on the lovely Fleet Street Clinic to cover my travel vaccination needs - for example to Cambodia, Vietnam and South Korea. They have real expertise in recommending what is necessary and protecting against risk. Having unfortunately had a bad NHS experience with vaccination earlier this year, I had a second and final shingles dose at the clinic. The last time, I wasn’t able to sleep on my left hand side for 10 days. At Fleet Street Clinic, the wonderful nurse ensured I had a perfect result.
Barry Milton
Excellent and efficient service from reception to consultation. Arranged good contact with my local GP which has enabled me to complete my treatment early next week.
Jez John
I love this place; it's my go-to for vaccinations. Now they offer private COVID boosters even better—also much better availability than the high street chemist named after footwear. Everyone is so friendly and professional.
Nay Chadbourne
Have had all my work travel vaccines at FSC and they have always been exemplary. Easy to book appointments, pleasant reception staff (both over email and phone) and appointment times to suit me. Never been kept waiting past my time and quick/easy vaccines done. Highly recommend.
Mehrdad Kazemipour
Cannot say enough good words about Fleet St Clinic...most expert physicians, caring and communicative nurses, courteous and considerate staff...we came upon fleet street clinic by chance and they treated our injured daughter traveling from the u.s. with the highest quality care anywhere we have experienced -forever grateful for their unforgettable services.
Grace G
The travel nurse was lovely and very efficient with giving me vaccines. She even took the time to nurse a wound I had whilst I was there. Really great care.
Catherine Glen
Had 2 vaccinations done recently with Chiara and she was amazing. Super attentive and caring and overall a great experience both times!
JJ Kim
We are tourist and my wife needs stitch removal service. My neighbor's son who majors in medical in London recommended this clinic. Very kind and the nurse has a very good skill. My wife didn't feel any pain and is very satisfied with her service. Based on my experience, I would like to strongly recommend this clinic if you need any services!!!
David Butler
Very easy to set up the appointment, warm and professional welcome - very transparent medical advice on a vaccine. They were all fabulous!
FAQs
The only contraception that offers protection against STIs is a condom. If you stop using condoms and other forms of contraception, you will be covered against pregnancy but you will not be protected against STIs.
If you are not wanting to get pregnant again we would advise you to restart your contraception as a precautionary measure. Some contraceptives such as the implant it is safe to breastfeed with.
There are more options that people think. The IUD and implant are the most common as they don’t require a daily task. The mini-pill is suitable and many women choose this option. You can opt for condoms which will also protect against STIs.
You can stop using contraception whenever you like. This is a personal choice not a medical choice. If you are not on contraception you may become pregnant. If you are not wanting to become pregnant it may be worth continuing using contraception until you naturally reach the menopause.
No, you do not have to be 16 years or older to get contraception. However, those seeking contraception under 16 years old will still need to book a contraception consultation and it will be at the doctor’s discretion if contraception is suitable.
