Lesbian and bisexual women use contraception for different reasons; to manage periods, bleeding patterns and period pains, to control hormonal disturbances and to prevent unwanted pregnancies with male partners.

It is likely that women who attend a health care service and ask for contraception advice will be assumed to be straight. Some lesbian and bisexual women may choose not to correct this assumption to avoid outing themselves. The more details you give to the doctor/nurse, the better they will be able to guide you around what contraceptives to choose.

Nurses can give advice and condoms. For other types of contraception you may need to see a doctor. You can request to see a female doctor.

Follow this link for more information on what contraceptives are available, including Long Acting Reversable Contraceptive (LARC's): www.contraception.co.uk