Family Planning
The practice offers the full range of family planning services, including emergency contraception such as the emergency pill, diaphragms, IUDs, pills, injectables, implants and advice regarding condoms and sterilisation. These appointments are scheduled in the usual way during normal surgery hours. Please see a doctor for a first visit for the contraceptive pill or if you need to change your prescription. Routine follow up for coil checks, pill-prescribing and Depo-Provera is offered by the practice nurses. Please speak to the doctor or nurse if you are planning a pregnancy.
Emergency Contraception
If you need emergency contraception please tell the receptionist what the appointment is for. She will arrange an urgent appointment. Please see further information later under self treatment of common illnesses and accidents.
Emergency contraception is available to prevent pregnancy after having unprotected sex, or if a method of contraception has failed.
There are 3 options:
- Emergency pill Levonelle. This can be used up to 3 days (72 hours) post unprotected sex.
- Emergency pill ellaOne. This can be used up to 5 days (120 hours) post unprotected sex.
- Emergency copper IUD (coil).This is a small plastic and copper device that can be fitted into your womb by our trained GPs. It can be used up to 5 days (120 hours) post unprotected sex or within 5 days of ovulation (release of an egg).
Note: The most effective method is the copper IUD which prevents at least 99% of pregnancies. The pills are slightly less effective. ellaOne may be slightly better that Levonelle in some circumstances, but may not be the emergency pill of choice in others. Your GP will be able to advise. Pills are probably best taken as soon as you can, rather than delaying to near the time limit. Therefore, we are happy to fit you in as an Urgent appointment – so inform the receptionist that you require emergency contraception. On occasion, we may be able to advise you via a telephone consultation.
Note: IF YOU REQUIRE EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION WHEN WE ARE CLOSED :
1. Levonelle and ellaOne can be purchased from most pharmacies for approx £20 – £30. Some patients may be eligible for free emergency pills, eg patients aged under 25. The pharmacist can advise.
2. Contact 111 for advice or attend A+E. Emergency contraception is provided free.
3. Walk in centres, Contraception and Sexual Health Clinicis (eg Broad Street Plaza on 01422 261300), Brook clinics and Young persons’ clinics may be open out of hours and can provide free emergency contraception.
Confidentiality & Under 16s
All aspects of consultations and treatments at the surgery are confidential. Patients can be assured that all staff have a legal duty of confidence and are fully trained in this aspect. This applies whether you are over or under 16. If you are under 16 you may attend an appointment with the doctor or nurse without your parent or guardian if you wish. You may be reassured that your consultation will “go no further”. If you are under 16 the doctor or nurse may encourage you to discuss your visit to the surgery with your parent or guardian. Rarely, if you are considered to be at risk or in danger, the doctor or nurse may have a duty to disclose such information in order to offer appropriate healthcare and support.