In this episode of What The Friday, hosts Phoebe, Lucy, and Poppy sit down with sexual health professionals Tina and Lizzie from Locala to unpack the facts about contraception in a clear, honest way.

They explore:

• What really happens in a contraception appointment and why informed choice matters
• How different methods can affect periods, mood, and pre-existing physical or mental health conditions
• Common myths about fertility, long-term use, and periods “backing up”
• Why contraception should be a shared responsibility, including how to handle pressure not to use condoms
• The truth about emergency contraception and when to use it
• Hormonal and non-hormonal options, including condoms, the copper coil, diaphragms, and fertility awareness methods
• How young people can find and access local sexual health services

Throughout the conversation, Tina and Lizzie emphasise consent, bodily autonomy, and the importance of open communication with partners and health professionals. This episode is designed to help young people feel informed, confident, and supported in making choices about their sexual health.

Useful links and support

• Locala sexual health services: https://www.locala.org.uk
• Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults: https://www.destination.org.uk
• Youth Social (production partners): https://www.youthsocial.co.uk
• NHS contraception overview (further reliable info): https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception

This episode was kindly funded by Locala: https://www.locala.org.uk

Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.

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Special thanks to Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.

Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music.