Finding it difficult to talk to your partner?
Here are a few tips that might make it easier to talk about contraception with your partner.
Find a good time to talk
- Find a good time to talk about sex, contraception or any health concerns you might have — when you are alone together and unlikely to be interrupted.
- Don't try and talk when you are already getting intimate!
- Do insist on using contraception every time you have sex if you do not want to get pregnant.
- Have as many conversations about contraception as you need.
- Talk about if either of you think you might need to get a test for a sexually transmitted infection (STI), if necessary. If so, book a test.
Be honest
Talk about what you want and what you don't want.
Think of the practicalities
Talk about the practical aspects of contraception. For example:
- whether you need to stop having sex for a time
- what type of contraception you should use
- who will be responsible for using it
- who will pay for the contraception
Be sure that you are happy with your choice of contraception – your choice should match your values and beliefs.
For more information, download the 'your contraceptive choices leaflet'