Contraception site launched for young people
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A NEW campaign to bring together young people in Grampian to help them make an informed choice about contraception is launched today.
The digital campaign is aimed at young people aged under 25 and promotes good sexual health practices, safer sex and aims to reduce the number of unintended pregnancies by making sure young women and men are aware of the many effective contraceptives now widely available.
The campaign website, www.theinsandouts.co.uk offers an online hub that allows young people to share their real life experiences with their peers as well as get up to date information from medical staff on suitable contraceptive options.
"It is important that we engage with young people in ways they are comfortable with in order to get across these vitally important messages," said Dr Sue Brechin, Sexual Health Consultant for NHS Grampian.
"While advice is freely available from health professionals as part of the campaign, our research shows that young people also get a lot from having this type of discussion with other people in their age group.
"We are looking forward to seeing how the community aspect of the new website develops but the campaign is about more than just that. We’ve also found that there are a lot of myths, rumours and misconceptions around the different types of contraception.
"People need reliable information in order to make the best choice for themselves and to avoid unplanned pregnancy which is why we’ve included a ‘myth busters’ section on the site that debunks a large number of the most common rumours we hear.
"The most reliable types of contraception are long acting, reversible methods such as the implant or intrauterine methods (sometimes referred to as the coil). These ‘fit and forget’ methods are highly effective, as they don’t rely on the woman to remember to take or use them regularly. That is not to say they are right for everyone and there are a range of different options available all of which we provide a host of information about."
Ashley, a 23 year old student, is one of several young women who have supported the new campaign by providing a video message discussing her experience.
"I am delighted to be involved and to share my experiences with others," she said. "It took me a few different attempts to find the right type of contraception for me and there are so many rumours and half-truths out there that being able to hear from people who had used each of the different contraceptives would have been a huge help.
"I would urge anyone who is unsure about what their choices are or who would be interested in sharing their experience with others to get involved."
Kerri, 23, also provided a video message on the website. She now uses an implant: "When I started thinking about contraception, I was reluctant to try the pill as I didn’t think I’d be that reliable with taking it regularly. I did try an injection but that did not suit me at all. I then started having to rely on emergency contraception quite frequently so my pharmacist suggested that I try an implant.
"I was quite scared of the procedure to get it in my arm but it didn’t hurt at all. I’ve had if for three years now and it’s the best thing I’ve ever done. I’ve never had to worry about it. It’s really working well."
