WOMEN in Dorset are turning away from the pill and condoms in favour of longer-lasting contraception, figures suggest.

NHS data shows that women who get their contraception from local sexual health clinics are increasingly choosing more invasive but longer-lasting methods such as the implant, coil/IUD or injection.

In 2017-18, these were the method of choice for 53 per cent of women visiting local clinics in Poole and Dorset county, and 43 per cent of women visiting clinics in Bournemouth.

That is up in all three areas since 2014-15, when 46 per cent of women in Poole and Dorset, and only 30 per cent in Bournemouth, opted for that form of contraception.

All methods of contraception have advantages and disadvantages, says sexual health charity the Family Planning Association.

Deputy chief executive Bekki Burbidge said: "The combined pill is still a popular choice, and has a range of advantages such as making periods lighter, and reducing PMS symptoms.

"But you have to remember to take it at around the same time each day, and it can be easy to miss one.

"If it's not always used according to instructions then it's only around 91 per cent effective.

"In contrast, long-acting reversible methods are over 99 per cent effective and also really convenient.

"Once you have one fitted you don't need to think about or remember to use contraception, which gives them a great advantage.

"It all depends on your lifestyle and preferences, and what's best for you is likely to change over time."

Despite the rise of alternatives, contraceptives like condoms and the pill were still the preferred pick for women across Dorset.

NHS guidelines recommend short-term contraceptives for well-organised people with regular routines.

The guidelines say the pill is more than 99 per cent effective at preventing pregnancy if it's taken according to instructions.

A roughly even number of women across Dorset opted for the implant or coil – fewer than half that number chose the injection. Only six per cent of women opted for condoms as their main method of contraception.

The data is limited to women who visit specialist services for contraceptive advice.

Sexual health clinics are maintained by local councils, rather than the NHS, and many councils have reduced or plan to reduce funding for these services.

Royal College of Nursing public health lead Helen Donovan said a more "integrated service" would provide women with advice and information on the best contraceptive for them.

"This may not be available in all clinics," she said. "The question is whether women are being offered the most appropriate contraception for their needs, and given the right support and relationship guidance counselling alongside that."