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Contraception Options in Australia
There are many different types of contraception and they all work in different ways
​This page delivers a comprehensive overview of the contraceptive choices currently available in Australia.
There is a lot of info here, so select the type of contraception you're interested in via the menu below, or just scroll through the page to scan all of them.
All of these contraceptive methods have their unique advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to explore all options and choose one that perfectly fits your health and lifestyle needs.
Is there Anything Quite as SEXY as SAFE?
Using a condom along with another form of contraception is the most effective way to prevent unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections
Male Condom
The male condom serves as a barrier that captures semen and stops the transfer of fluids to a partner. They are about 82% effective, as they can break and may not always be used correctly.
Pros
-
Condoms are the only contraceptive method that also reduces the risk of STIs.
-
Condoms are less effective than the Implant or the Pill but better than the “pull out” method.
-
Condoms are relatively cheap, discrete and easy to carry with you.
-
Condoms require no prescription.
82%
Effective
on its own
Cons
-
You need a new condom every time you have sex.
-
Condoms are generally made from latex rubber which is perishable. It's important to check the use-by date and always keep condoms in a cool place.
-
Condoms can come off or break, so there will have to be a level of trust between everyone involved.
Female Condom
The female (internal) condom features a flexible ring and is placed inside the vagina prior to intercourse. It acts as a barrier that collects semen and prevents the transfer of fluids to a partner.
Pros
-
Female Condoms protect against STIs
-
Female condoms are not made of latex, so no allergy issues.
-
Many say that the material used in female condoms does not affect sensitivity
-
Can be used alongside other contraception such as the Implant or the Pill, but cannot be used at the same time as male condoms.
-
The woman is in control, so the condom can be put in place well before any sexual activity begins.
-
Some say that the external ring of the female condom can stimulate the clitoris, which can make sex even more pleasurable.​
79%
up to 95% effective if used correctly
on its own
Cons
-
They're single use and quite expensive in comparison to the male condom.
-
They're not as popular as males condoms and can be hard to find in Australia. But we can source them for you if you need help?
-
They can be a bit 'noisy', but that shouldn't bother you or your partner if you're having fun!?
-
Application can be a bit tricky and may require a little practice.
Female Condom
The female (internal) condom has a flexible ring and is inserted into the vagina before sex. Female condoms provide a barrier which collects the semen and stops transfer of fluids to a partner.
The Pill
"The Pill" is either combined (containing oestrogen and progesterone) or the mini pill (progesterone only). Both are taken once a day
Pros
-
Periods generally become more regular, less painful and lighter
-
Some people use the pill to stop their periods
-
Acne can sometimes improve on the pill
-
Mood changes and other premenstrual symptoms usually improve or go away completely
-
Some contraceptive pills are relatively cheap
.
92%
effective
if used
correctly
Cons
-
The contraceptive pill does not protect you against STIs
-
You have to remember to take your pill every day, though you could set a reminder on your favorite device
-
Acne can get worse on the pill
-
If you have vomiting or diarrhoea, or if you forget to take the pill, you may not be protected. This is where Emergency contraception is particularly useful
-
Some pills are expensive
-
You need a prescription​
Progesterone-Only Pill (POP or Mini pill)
A pack contains 28 pills, each with an identical dosage. The new progestin-only pill (POP), which contains only drospirenone, offers greater reliability compared to older versions that required daily intake at the same time for effectiveness.
This POP works by thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus and may also inhibit the ovaries from releasing an egg.
Pros
-
Periods usually become lighter and sometimes stop altogether.
-
Safe to use if you are breastfeeding or you can’t take Oestrogen.
91%
effective
for most
women
Cons
-
The POP does not protect against STIs
-
Usually less effective than the combined pill
-
Can cause unpredictable or irregular bleeding.
-
Like the combined pill, the POP won’t work properly if you have vomiting or diarrhoea or dont take them properly. If this happens, you should consider Emergency contraception.
The Contraceptive Implant - Implanon ("The ROD")
The Implant is a small plastic rod that is placed beneath the skin on the inner side your upper arm.
It can remain in position for up to three years, releasing a hormone that prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg each month. Additionally, it thickens the cervical mucus, hindering sperm from entering the uterus.
The Implant is 99.9% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Pros
-
It's set and forget. No need to take a pill every day.
-
Implanon is effective immediately if it is inserted during the first five days of your period
-
It's discreet. It is not obvious that you have an implant
-
It lasts for up to 3 years, but can be removed early if needed.
-
It's safe for breastfeeding
-
It's cost effective compared to other monthly cost contraception.
99.9%
effective
LARC
Cons
-
It does not protect against STIs
-
Your periods may become irregular
-
The rod can only be inserted or removed by a trained professional, and does require a minor procedure
-
The Insertion and removal can cause mild bruising and some soreness. It might leave a very small scar.
-
You may experience side effects such as tender breasts, headaches, mood changes and some irregular vaginal bleeding, although some women have no bleeding at all.
IUD - IntraUterine Device (Mirena®, Kyleena®, Copper)
In modern Australia and around the world, the best choice for effective birth control is the use of Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs).
We recommend these as the "Gold Standard" because they are “set and forget” and much more effective than other types of contraceptive.
​
The IUD is a small ‘T’ shaped plastic device which is inserted inside the uterus.
There are two types of hormonal IUDs available in Australia. They are called Mirena® and Kyleena®. The Kyleena® is slightly smaller than the Mirena® and has a lower amount of the hormone.
The Hormonal IUD thickens the mucus in the cervix to stop the sperm from moving into the uterus. This also thins the lining of the uterus to stop a fertilised egg from implanting, and sometimes the ovaries are stopped from releasing an egg.
The copper IUD does not contain any hormones, but may cause periods to be heavier or longer.
All types of IUD are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
​
You may experience some cramping when an IUD is inserted.
All IUDs must be inserted and removed by a trained doctor or nurse.
Hormonal IUD
Pros
-
Set & Forget. No need to take a pill every day
-
Your periods will likely become lighter or may stop completely
-
It is effective right away if it’s put in during the first five days of your period
-
Your fertility returns as soon as it is removed
-
It is safe to use when breastfeeding
-
It is very cost effective over the 5 years
99%
effective
LARC
Cons
-
Does not protect you against STIs
-
Requires a minor procedure to insert and remove the IUD from the uterus.
-
There is a small chance that it can come out by itself.
-
There is a small chance of hormonal side-effects such as acne and breast discomfort.
Copper (Non-Hormonal) IUD
Copper decreases the movement of the egg, delaying the interaction between sperm and egg. It prevents sperm from fertilising the egg stops a fertilised egg from implanting in the uterus.
Pros
-
Set and Forget. No need to take a pill every day.
-
It starts working right away, .
-
Fertility returns as soon as it’s taken out.
-
Doesn’t contain any hormones.
-
Safe to use if you’re breastfeeding or can’t use hormonal methods of contraception.
-
5 or 10 year options
99%
effective
LARC
Cons
-
Does not protect you against STIs
-
In the first few months, you may experience some irregular vaginal bleeding
-
Periods can be heavier and more painful
-
There is a very small chance that it can come out by itself
Copper (Non-Hormonal) IUD
The copper slows the egg’s movement to delay the sperm and egg meeting. Stops sperm from fertilising the egg and stops a fertilised egg from implanting in the uterus.
The vaginal ring is a flexible plastic device that contains hormones similar to those found in the combined pill.
It is inserted into the vagina for three weeks, requiring no additional action during that time. After three weeks, it is removed for one week, when a monthly bleed (similar to a period) occurs. After this break, a new ring is inserted, and the cycle starts again.
The vaginal ring prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs and thickens cervical mucus to block sperm from entering the uterus. It functions similarly to the pill, with the key difference being that the hormones in the ring are absorbed gradually through the vaginal walls.
The effectiveness of the vaginal ring is comparable to that of the combined pill, with a success rate of 92%.
The Vaginal Ring - NuvaRing (aka "The Ring")
Pros
-
The ring is a good option for you, if you have trouble remembering to take the pill
-
One size fits all, so simple to prescribe
-
Diarrhoea or vomiting do not effect its absorbtion, because the hormones are absorbed directly into the bloodstream
-
Periods usually become more regular, less painful and lighter
-
Acne is often improved with The vaginal ring
-
PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) symptoms such as mood changes before a period, often improve or disappear completely.
-
It can be taken out to have sex, but needs to be reinserted within one hour.
92%
effective
if used
correctly
Cons
-
The ring does not protect you against STIs, but it can be used at the same time as condoms.
-
You must remember to remove it after three weeks and insert a new ring one week later. A phone reminder can help you to remember
-
The ring is expensive compared to some other forms of contraception.
-
Some women have difficulty with inserting the ring into their vagina.
-
Side effects may include tender breast, feeling sick, headaches, and mood changes, but these often settle down within the first few months.
​
​
Contraceptive Injection - DMPA (Depo, Depo Provera or Depo Ralovera )
DMPA is a long-lasting hormone administered via injection into the buttock or upper arm every 12 weeks.
After several injections, monthly bleeding may cease completely, which is not harmful.
DMPA is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy, although its effectiveness may decrease if injections are delayed.
Possible side effects include weight gain, headaches, breast tenderness, acne, some loss of bone density, and irregular bleeding, though these often improve over time, and many women experience no periods after a while.
DMPA is not advised for people under 18 or those nearing menopause due to potential impacts on bone density, and it is also not recommended for those planning to conceive within the next 12 to 18 months.
Pros
-
You don't need to remember to take a pill every day
-
It's safe to use if you can't take oestrogen, or if you’re breastfeeding
-
Its a good option if you don’t want to have periods
99%
effective
if used
correctly
(12 weeks)
Cons
-
It does not protect you against STIs
-
You must remember to get the injection every 12 weeks.
-
It is not quickly reversible, which means that any side-effects could take time to wear off.
-
It can take some time for your periods and fertility to return to normal.
Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP, Morning after pill)
The Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP), often referred to as 'the morning after pill', is used after unprotected intercourse to prevent an unintended pregnancy. There are 2 different types of ECPs: Levonorgestrel-ECP (LNG-ECP) and Ulipristal acetate (UPA).
You might consider using emergency contraception if you have had unprotected sex, if a condom broke, if you missed a dose of your regular contraception, or if you have experienced sexual assault.
LNG-ECP is effective for up to four days, while UPA can be effective for up to five days after unprotected sex. However, taking it as soon as possible increases its effectiveness.
It's advisable to take a follow-up pregnancy test in a few weeks to confirm that you are not pregnant, and discussing this with your doctor or pharmacist is recommended.
ECP is generally safe, with potential side effects including light bleeding and changes in your menstrual cycle. If your period is delayed, it's important to take a pregnancy test.
PROS
-
Emergency Contraception Pills are very safe and can be used more than once in a month if necessary.
-
LNG EC is available at the chemist without a prescription.
-
It won’t cause an abortion if you’re already pregnant.
85%
effective
if taken in
time
Cons
-
Emergency Contraceptive Pills do not protect against STIs.
-
Emergency Contraceptive Pills will not protect you against pregnancy if you have unprotected sex again in the same menstrual cycle. You should use condoms until you’re protected fully by another regular method of contraception.
Diaphragm
The diaphragm provides a barrier to stop the sperm entering the uterus. It is a round silicone cap worn inside the vagina to cover the cervix.
The diaphragm must be left in place for at least six hours after sex. It needs to fit properly, be put in correctly and be used every time you have sex.
The diaphragm is about 85% effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly.
There is only one type of diaphragm in Australia, and it is a “one size fits all”
Pros
-
It is relatively inexpensive and reusable
-
It is small and easy to carry
-
It seldom interferes with the sexual experience.
85%
effective
if used with
spermicide
Cons
-
Diaphragms require consistent use for every sexual encounter
-
Spermicide can be messy
-
A prescription is needed
-
It can contribute to urinary tract infections
-
It must be cleaned and stored each time its used.
Fertility Awareness Methods (FAMs)
These techniques focus on pinpointing the fertile days of the menstrual cycle to prevent pregnancy.
They include tracking the menstrual cycle and noting indicators like cervical mucus, cervical changes, and basal body temperature.
When applied consistently and correctly, these methods can be 75% to 99.6% effective, but they do require commitment to avoid pregnancy. Consulting with a knowledgeable educator is advisable.
Pros
-
Cost effective
-
Does not disrupt the menstrual cycle
-
Women become aware of when they are most fertile, which can be used to achieve or prevent a pregnancy
-
FAMs can be used with barrier methods during the ‘fertile’ days
75%
effective
but can be
higher
Cons
-
FAMs don't protect you against STIs.
-
This method may entail substantial periods of abstinence
-
FAMs are generally not as effective as other methods
-
If your periods are not regular, these methods are not reliable. It is important that you can monitor your cycle with this method.
-
Fertility Awareness Methods require cooperation and education of both partners.
Other Methods
Withdrawal method
-
Withdrawal is when the penis is taken out of the vagina before ejaculation.
-
The withdrawal method is around 85 % effective at preventing pregnancy.
-
There can be sperm in the fluid that comes out of the penis before ejaculation (pre-ejaculate). And if ejaculation happens at the entrance to the vagina, it is possible that some sperm may still get inside and result in a pregnancy.
-
This method does not prevent STIs.
-
It can leave a terrible mess on the sheets.
Less
than 85%
effective
DANGER!
Sterilisation
-
Both men and women have the option to undergo procedures that render them permanently infertile. Sterilisation boasts an effectiveness rate of over 99.5%.
-
Female sterilization involves blocking sperm from reaching the egg by "tying the tubes," which requires general anesthesia and typically an overnight hospital stay. Public patients face long waiting lists, and doctors are generally hesitant to perform the procedure on those under 35
-
Male sterilisation is called vasectomy - it blocks sperm from getting into the semen. It takes around 20 minutes and can be done as an awake procedure under local anaesthetic.
We can't help you with vasectomy online, but if you're in Sydney, our 'scalpel free' vasectomy is very popular!
99.5%
effective if
you've finished
making
your family