Sexual Health >> Contraception and Birth Control
Contraception and Birth Control
Contraception means stopping pregnancy before it starts. It can stop the egg from meeting the sperm or stop the egg from growing in the body.
What types are available (pill, condom, injection, IUD, implant)? What are their pros and cons?
In Australia, you can choose from many birth control options. Some are used every day (like the pill), every month (like the ring), and others last for years (like the implant or IUD). These methods work in different ways and have different levels of effectiveness. To get most of them, you need to talk to a doctor or use an online service. The best method depends on your body, lifestyle, and goals. Emergency contraception is also available if something goes wrong.
What is abstinence?
Hormonal vs Non-Hormonal
Short acting vs Long acting methods
Male vs Female methods
Pros and Cons
Contraceptive Pros and Cons Comparison
| Method | Pros | Cons | Effectiveness (Typical Use) | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pill (combined) | Easy to get, regulates periods, some helps with acne | Must take daily, possible side effects like nausea for the first 3 months | 91–93% | Better Health — Contraception Choices |
| Mini-pill (progestogen-only) | Good for those who can't take estrogen | Must take at same time every day, less flexible | 91–93% | Healthdirect — Contraception Options |
| Implant | Very effective, lasts 3 years, low maintenance | May cause irregular bleeding, needs doctor insertion | >99% | NextClinic — Birth Control Options |
| Injection (Depo-Provera) | Lasts 3 months, no daily action needed | Can delay return to fertility, possible weight gain | 94% | FPNSW — Contraceptive Injection |
| Hormonal IUD (e.g. Mirena) | Lasts 5 years, can reduce or stop periods | Needs doctor insertion, insertion can be painful, spotting at first, expensive | >99% | FPNSW — IUD Information |
| Copper IUD | Lasts 5–10 years, hormone-free | Needs doctor insertion, can cause heavier periods, cramps | >99% | FPNSW — IUD Information |
| Condoms (male/female) | Protects against STIs, easy to buy, no hormones | Can break or slip, less effective with incorrect use | 82–88% | Healthdirect — Condoms |
| Abstinence | No pregnancy or STI risk if followed strictly | Not realistic for many people long term | 100% | Healthdirect — Contraception Options |
| Sterilisation | Permanent, highly effective | Cannot be reversed, requires surgery | >99% | Better Health — Female Sterilisation |
How do I get contraception? Do I need a prescription?
Most contraception needs a doctor's visit. You may need a prescription. But condoms and emergency pills are easy to get in a pharmacy.
To get birth control in Australia, you usually need to see a doctor. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) helps pay for GP visits and part of the cost of some methods like the pill. But it doesn't cover everything — for example, you may need to pay extra for IUDs, implants, or specialist visits. Some clinics “bulk bill,” so you don't pay up front. Always check with your OSHC provider and ask if the service is covered before your visit.
Plan B (emergency contraception)
Plan B is a type of emergency contraception — a pill you can take after unprotected sex or if something goes wrong (like a condom breaks or you forgot your pill).
It helps stop pregnancy before it starts by delaying ovulation (when the egg is released). It does not cause an abortion and does not affect a pregnancy if you're already pregnant.
Take Plan B as soon as possible after unprotected sex — within 72 hours (3 days) for best results. The sooner you take it, the better it works. You just swallow one tablet with water. Some brands use two smaller pills instead of one. If you vomit within 2 hours, you may need to take it again, so check with a pharmacist.
Most people feel fine after taking Plan B. Some may have mild side effects like nausea, a sore stomach, tiredness, headaches, or changes in their next period (earlier, later, heavier, or lighter than usual). These effects usually go away quickly. If you don't get your period within 3 weeks, take a pregnancy test to be sure.
Yes! In Australia, you can buy Plan B (like Postinor-1 or EllaOne) at most pharmacies without a prescription. The pharmacist may ask you a few questions to make sure it's safe for you. The price is around $20–$45. Some types, like EllaOne, may not be in stock everywhere, so you can call ahead to check.
What should I know if my doctor only recommends hormonal methods?
You have the right to ask about all your options. If a doctor only suggests hormonal methods (like the pill or implant), ask them to explain why and also talk about non-hormonal choices, like condoms or the copper IUD. Not everyone feels good on hormones, and that's okay. A good doctor should listen to your needs, explain the pros and cons, and help you choose what works best for your body and lifestyle.
Step-by-step instruction for discussing birth control with doctors
Do some research before going to the clinic/doctor - this will make it easier to talk to your doctor.
'Hi, I would like to discuss my contraception options, could you please help me?'
Doctors may ask you questions about your period - is it regular, do you experience pain, do you have any gynaecological conditions (e.g. endometriosis), do you or any of your family members have a history of breast cancer or blood clot or specific type of migraine, or do you have acne problem?
Ask the doctor to explain:
What does the medication/method do?
What are the common side effects?
How long does it last?
Ask the doctor to compare the methods if you're unsure.
