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Do I have to be 16 to use contraception?
No. Young people under 16 years old can get confidential advice and contraception providing they are mature enough to understand the advice and decisions made about giving them contraception. Health workers (nurses, doctors and pharmacists) work under very specific guidance with this age group.
Will my parents/carers be told?
Even if you are under 16 health workers still have to keep anything you tell them private but they will usually encourage you to talk to your parent or carer. The health worker would only need to share the information with someone else on rare occasions, for example if they thought there was a risk to your health, safety or welfare. The risk would need to be serious for your right to privacy to be overridden and the health worker would usually discuss this with you first.
What is the age of consent?
It is against the law for anyone to have sex with a young person under the age of 16 (under 17 in Northern Ireland). This is the same for young men and women and for heterosexual (straight) and homosexual (gay/lesbian) sex. This is known as the age of consent.
Can young people use all methods of contraception?
Most methods of contraception are suitable for young people to use. Find out more in our booklets Is everybody doing it? and Your guide to contraception.
Where can I get more information and advice?
Find out how to get further information and advice.
For further advice on sexual health, including contraception and your rights as a young person see also www.brook.org.uk.
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