Contraception Options: A Guide from Your GP
Choosing the right contraception is a personal decision based on your health, lifestyle, plans for pregnancy, and preferences. This guide covers the main contraception options available in Australia, how they work, their effectiveness, and what to discuss with your GP.
How Effective Is Each Method?
Contraceptive effectiveness is measured two ways: “perfect use” (method used correctly every time) and “typical use” (real-world, which includes human error). Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) has the highest typical-use effectiveness because it does not depend on remembering.
- Hormonal implant (Implanon): Over 99.9% effective — most effective
- Hormonal IUD (Mirena, Kyleena): Over 99% effective
- Copper IUD: Over 99% effective
- Depo injection: 94–99% effective
- Combined oral contraceptive pill: 91–99% effective
- Mini-pill (progestogen-only): 91–99% effective
- Vaginal ring (NuvaRing): 91–99% effective
- Male condoms: 82–98% effective
- Female condoms and diaphragms: 79–95% effective
- Natural/fertility awareness methods: 76–99% effective — high user dependency
Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC)
Hormonal IUD (Mirena, Kyleena)
A small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a trained GP or gynaecologist. Releases small amounts of progestogen (levonorgestrel) locally. Mirena lasts 5–8 years; Kyleena lasts 5 years.
Pros: Very effective, usually reduces period bleeding and cramping, fertility returns quickly after removal. Cons: Insertion can be uncomfortable; spotting common for the first 3–6 months.
Copper IUD
Small copper-wrapped T-shaped device. Hormone-free, works by preventing fertilisation. Lasts 5–10 years depending on type. Can also be used as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex.
Pros: Hormone-free, long-lasting, highly effective, useful for women who cannot take hormones. Cons: May make periods heavier and more painful.
Hormonal Implant (Implanon)
A small rod (size of a matchstick) inserted under the skin of the upper arm by a trained GP. Releases progestogen (etonogestrel) for 3 years.
Pros: Very effective, convenient, no daily thinking required. Cons: Irregular bleeding common; some women experience mood changes or weight gain.
Short-Acting Hormonal Contraception
Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill
Daily pill containing oestrogen and progestogen. Many brands; your GP will help choose the right one for you.
Pros: Can reduce period pain, regulate cycles, improve acne, and reduce ovarian cancer risk. Cons: Must be taken daily. Small increased risk of blood clots, particularly in smokers over 35. Not suitable for everyone.
Mini-Pill (Progestogen-Only)
Daily progestogen-only pill. Suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen — breastfeeding, over 35 smokers, history of blood clots, migraine with aura.
Pros: Fewer contraindications than combined pill. Cons: Must be taken within a 3-hour window every day for most types; irregular bleeding common.
Depo-Provera Injection
Progestogen injection given every 12 weeks by your GP.
Pros: Only need to think about it every 3 months. Can stop periods. Cons: Can cause weight gain and temporary reduction in bone density (usually reversible). Return of fertility may take 6–12 months after stopping.
Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing)
A flexible ring containing oestrogen and progestogen, inserted into the vagina for 3 weeks, then removed for 1 week for a period.
Pros: Only need to think about it monthly. Same benefits as the combined pill. Cons: Some women dislike the sensation; not suitable if you cannot take oestrogen.
Barrier Methods
Condoms
Male condoms are widely available and the only contraception that also protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Female condoms and diaphragms are also available.
Pros: No hormones, STI protection, widely available. Cons: Must be used correctly every time to be effective; some people have latex allergy (non-latex options available).
Emergency Contraception
- Morning-after pill: Levonorgestrel (Postinor) or ulipristal (EllaOne). Available without a prescription at pharmacies. Most effective within 24 hours but can work up to 72–120 hours after unprotected sex.
- Copper IUD: The most effective emergency contraception. Can be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected sex and provides ongoing contraception.
What to Discuss with Your GP
- Your medical history — blood pressure, migraines, blood clots, family history
- Whether you smoke
- Your age
- Whether you have had children and whether you want children in the future
- Current medications — some interact with hormonal contraception
- How regular your periods are and any problems you have (heavy bleeding, cramps, PMS)
- Your comfort with daily vs long-acting methods
- Cost considerations — some methods have upfront costs; others are PBS-subsidised
- STI risk and whether you also need condom protection
Special Considerations for Women’s Health
Some contraceptive methods can also help manage conditions like endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), heavy periods, and acne. Talk to your GP if you have any of these concerns — the right contraception can treat two things at once.
Family Doctor also operates Ovara Women’s Health, a dedicated women’s health clinic specialising in contraception, menopause, PCOS, and women’s GP care.
Find a Family Doctor Clinic Near You
All Family Doctor clinics offer confidential contraception consultations. Many of our GPs are also trained in IUD and implant insertion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my contraception consultation confidential?
Yes. All GP consultations are confidential and protected by privacy law. What you discuss with your GP is not shared with family members, employers, or anyone else without your consent.
Can teenagers get contraception from a GP?
Yes. In Australia, a young person under 16 can access contraception from a GP if they are considered “Gillick competent” — that is, mature enough to understand the decision. Consultations are confidential within the limits of the law.
Is contraception covered by Medicare?
GP consultations for contraception are covered by Medicare. Many Family Doctor clinics bulk bill these consultations. The contraception itself is often PBS-subsidised. IUD and implant insertion have additional Medicare item numbers.
How do I switch between methods?
Talk to your GP before switching. They will advise on timing to ensure continuous contraceptive cover and may recommend using condoms as backup during the transition.