Health and wellbeing
World Contraception Day highlights range of contraception options available in Walsall
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Ahead of World Contraception Day on Saturday 26 September, residents across Walsall are being encouraged to find out more about their contraception options available locally and access free, confidential support.
Whether residents are looking to start contraception, review their current method, access emergency contraception or get trusted information, local services are available in Walsall to help them make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health.
People's contraceptive needs can change throughout their lives. Changes in circumstances, health needs or personal preferences may mean that a different method is more suitable. Residents can access free and confidential advice to understand their options and find the method that is right for them.
Many community pharmacies across Walsall can now provide the daily contraceptive pill without the need for a GP prescription or referral. The service is free, confidential and available to eligible people who wish to start oral contraception or continue their current supply, without the need for a GP appointment.
Residents can also access emergency contraception free of charge through most pharmacies. It can help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or when contraception may have failed, such as a split condom. Emergency contraception works best when it is accessed as soon as possible and should be used within three to five days.
For those looking for a method they do not need to remember every day, long-acting reversible contraception including implants, injections and coils offers highly effective protection and can be discussed with the Walsall Integrated Sexual Health service (WiSH) or a GP practice.
In addition, condoms are the only contraceptive method that helps reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections. Using condoms alongside another chosen method can provide additional protection.
WiSH provides free, confidential and non-judgemental support, including contraception and testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections. Support is available for people of all ages, genders and sexual orientations.
Walsall residents can choose the service that works best for them, whether that is a participating pharmacy, WiSH or their GP practice.
“ World Contraception Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of the support and services available to residents across Walsall. Having access to clear, trusted information can help people understand the options available to them and make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
There are a range of free and confidential services available locally, including pharmacies, GP practices and WiSH. We encourage anyone who would like advice, has questions about contraception, or wishes to review their current method to get in touch and find out what support is available. “
Residents can access free, confidential contraception and sexual health support by contacting the WiSH service on 01922 270400.
To find your nearest pharmacy offering the contraceptive pill in Walsall, visit the NHS website.
To find your nearest pharmacy offering emergency contraception in Walsall, visit the NHS website.
About contraception
- Most pharmacies can provide the combined pill or progestogen-only pill to eligible people, whether they are starting oral contraception for the first time or continuing their current supply.
- Emergency contraception can stop you getting pregnant after unprotected sex. This is when you have sex without contraception or when contraception might have failed. You need to use emergency contraception within 3 to 5 days of having unprotected sex. The sooner you use emergency contraception, the more effective it usually is. You can get this free of charge from most pharmacies.
- Not every pharmacy offers these services. It is recommended to contact your local pharmacy before attending. If the pill is unsuitable or other methods or you wish to discuss another method, the pharmacy can signpost or refer you to WiSH, your GP practice or another appropriate service.
