Contraception
Shire Doctors - Your Friendly GP to Talk to About Contraception
Your GP is normally the first point of contact for advice and guidance on sexual health and contraception. At Shire Doctors and Dentists, we offer a full range of family planning services, including contraception counselling and treatments, unplanned pregnancy management, and managing infertility, as well as shared antenatal care.
There are many contraceptive methods available on the market, including:
- Barrier Methods (Male and Female Condoms)
- Emergency Contraception Pills
- Implants
- Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
- Injections
- Oral Contraceptive Pills
- Sterilisation (Permanent): Female (Tubal Ligation) or Male (Vasectomy)
- Vaginal Rings
Common Types of Contraception
Oral Contraceptive Pills
To this day, Australian women continue to use oral contraceptive pills as their choice of contraception. Two main types of contraceptive pills are commonly known as ‘the pill’:
- The combined pill has 2 hormones and stops the ovaries from releasing an egg each month.
- The progestogen-only pill (mini pill) has 1 one hormone and works by changing the mucus at the entrance to the womb so that sperm is unable to pass through.
Overall Effectiveness (FPNSW) | If taken correctly, the combined pill and progestogen-only pill are both 99.7% effective. |
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*You can discuss them with your GP if you have any concern.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception is also known as “the morning-after-pill” and is available over the counter at most chemists. Emergency contraception may be used if:
- You had unprotected sex (no form of contraception was used)
- The condom broke during sex
- You forgot to take your oral contraceptive pills
- You were sexually assaulted
Overall Effectiveness (FPNSW) | The morning-after-pill is most effective when taken as early as possible following the intercourse. Emergency pills prevent about 85% of expected pregnancies. |
Advantages | The morning-after-pill is very safe with no serious or long-lasting side effects. |
Disadvantages | There is a small chance of nausea, breast tenderness, or headache after using this contraception. |
IUDs: Intrauterine Devices
An Intrauterine Device or “IUD” is a small contraceptive device that is placed inside your uterus. An IUD stops sperm from reaching an egg – it also changes the lining of your uterus, so a fertilised egg cannot embed in it. In Australia, we have 2 kinds of IUDs:
- Copper IUD – Lasts for 5 to 10 years.
- Hormone Intrauterine Devices –Lasts for 5 years.
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Barrier Methods: Male and Female Condom
Condoms are a popular method of contraception that can be used on-demand, are hormone-free, and can easily be carried. They also come in male and female forms.
Male condoms are rolled onto a penis and act as a physical barrier, stopping sexual fluids from passing between people during sex. While the female condom is placed into the vagina before having sex.
Overall Effectiveness | Condoms are 98% effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly. However, in real life, they can be less effective (88% effectiveness) due to breakage or incorrect use. |
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Contraceptive Implants
The contraceptive implant is a small, reversible contraceptive device that is inserted right under the skin, usually in the upper arm, and stays effective for up to 3 years. It works by releasing a small amount of progestogen constantly preventing ovulation. Progestogen is one of the hormones used in the combined oral contraceptive pill and is similar to the hormone progesterone found in the body naturally.
Overall Effectiveness (FPNSW) | The contraceptive implant is 99.95% effective at preventing pregnancy. |
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Talk about Contraception with Shire Doctors & Dentists
It is important to consider all the different types of contraception available and choose a method that best suits your needs.
For more information on contraception, you have options such as:
- Talking to your local GP at Shire Doctors & Dentists – We offer high quality and cost-effective health care services, in addition to having trained female doctors to discuss confidential matters.
- Visiting the NSW Health Play Safe Website
- Calling the Family Planning Talkline on 1300 658 886 for free, confidential information and advice on your contraception options.
- Reading more about contraceptionon the Family Planning NSW website.