Get contraception
Find out how to access contraception and sexual health support, including routine and emergency options from GP practices, pharmacies, and clinics, plus free condoms and STI testing for under-25s.
Get contraception
Safe sex
Condoms help protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and are free to those under 25.
Many STIs, such as HIV, have no symptoms. The more partners you have, the higher the risk of getting an STI.
If you're worried you have put yourself at risk of or may have an STI you can get tested for HIV and STIs. Order a free STI kit online or contact your sexual health service.
Find more information:
Get contraception
Even if you don't plan to be sexually active while you're a student, it's good to be prepared. You can get contraception from most GP practices and sexual health services. This includes routine oral contraception and emergency contraception.
In addition, your local pharmacy is a convenient place for people to receive confidential advice and support for contraception, with many pharmacies opening into the evenings and weekends and offering walk-in services.
In Kent and Medway, a number of participating pharmacies can offer patients a supply of oral contraception without needing to attend their GP practice or sexual health clinic to obtain a prescription. This applies to patients already prescribed these medicines and looking for a further supply, and those considering starting this medicine.
Find you nearest participating pharmacy
All pharmacies offer emergency oral contraception, with many pharmacies providing this free for patients meeting certain criteria.
Emergency oral contraception can be given up to 120 hours following unprotected sex or a coil can be fitted up to 120 hours following unprotected intercourse. This could be accessible from your GP practice or specialist sexual health service.