LCHS Joins Campaign to Improve Awareness About Contraception

Sexual health teams in Lincolnshire are encouraging women to learn more about contraception as part of Sexual Health Week.

The Sexual Health Service, led by Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust (LCHS), is supporting a call by charity The Family Planning Association (FPA) for women to improve their knowledge of contraception as part of the awareness week, which runs this week from September 15-21.

The charity's survey of more than 2,000 women across the UK found more than a quarter (29 per cent) of sexually active women aged 16 to 54 have had unprotected sex in the last two years and not used emergency contraception, despite saying they were not planning a pregnancy.

It also found 43 per cent of women would not know where to get emergency contraception if they needed it.

In Lincolnshire, the Sexual Health Service provides confidential and non-judgemental advice, testing and treatment for all aspects of sexual health.

Helen Oliver, Clinical Nurse Specialist at LCHS, said: "It's important not to overlook our sexual health. If you have had unprotected sex and would like emergency contraception, please do not wait. The sooner you obtain oral emergency contraception the more effective it will be. More importantly, anyone who is sexually active should find out what their contraceptive options are, what is likely to suit them and their lifestyle best and how to access sexual health care. In the first instance, we recommend visiting your GP for advice but our dedicated central booking line is also available to give access to further specialist support."

For advice or to find a community contraception clinic near you, contact the sexual health central booking line on 01522 539145.