Contraception: Time to Reclaim the Conversation

I have worked in Sexual and Reproductive Health in London as a Consultant since 1994 and for many years have raised the same concern: we do not talk enough about contraception. Abortion rates in London remain high and are rising, yet opportunities to promote and improve access to contraception are often missed. 

Once, the Family Planning Association played a vital role in providing clear, accessible public information, but its closure left a national gap.  Sexwise briefly filled that role, but with funding withdrawn three years ago, there is no longer a national body leading campaigns. Local commissioners want national support, but nobody is tasked with delivering it. In London alone, we have three million women of reproductive age – surely, we can do better? 

General Practice once delivered 80% of contraception, but training and funding pressures have shifted this responsibility. Pharmacists and online services, such as Sexual Health London (SHL), are helping, but they cannot meet all needs. Clinics are left to manage the more complex cases and often the most vulnerable women due to language issues and digital poverty. Meanwhile, a worrying trend is emerging: young women are increasingly turning away from hormonal contraception, influenced by myths, misinformation, and social media. Fertility apps may seem appealing but are far less reliable. 

We must change the narrative. Hormonal contraception is not only safe, but it also often brings additional benefits e.g. reducing heavy or painful periods and improving quality of life. SHL is well placed to promote the wide range of contraceptive choices available, alongside excellent resources such as CoSRH’s Contraception Choices website, and to signpost women needing clinic visits to local services. 

What we need now is a London-wide campaign –  with simple, accessible, consistent messages.  Posters, leaflets, banners, digital content – reaching youth clubs, schools, and community spaces. Small steps, but together they could make a real impact. 

It’s time to put contraception back at the heart of sexual health. 

 Naomi Hampton

Consultant in Sexual and Reproductive Health