FAQs:
Be Contraception Confident

Take our Quiz and save your results to discuss with your healthcare professional.

Each contraception has benefits and possible side effects. Whether it is suitable for you depends on your needs, circumstances and medical history. Read our Contraception Options page for information on each contraception method and chat with your healthcare professional for further information about your options.

There are several considerations when choosing a contraception, including: effectiveness in pregnancy prevention, ease of use, reversibility, side effects, any health issues you may have which could affect some choices, cost and availability, potential benefits other than contraception and protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Not every day refers to methods that provide contraception for an extended period (weeks, months, or years) without requiring daily attention, but can be reversed if you decide to stop using them. This includes the vaginal ring and injection, as well as LARC (Long-Acting Reversible Contraception) options such as the implant and IUDs. Specific timing and process of reversal may vary based on the method. Discover if these options could be right for you by taking our Quiz, or explore these options in more depth on our Contraception Options page.

Every day refers to short-term contraception such as contraceptive pills and condoms. These methods require more frequent attention and are typically used daily, or just before sex, and can be stopped at any time, depending on the method you're using. Specific timing and process of reversal may vary based on the method. Explore these options in more depth on our Contraception Options page.

If you change your mind about your current contraception, it's important to speak with your healthcare professional. They can guide you through stopping or switching your method safely and help you explore other options. You can take our Contraception Quiz to compare methods based on your preferences and save your results to discuss during your appointment.

Most not every day contraception options can be removed at any time and their effects usually wear off quickly after removal, except for the contraceptive injection.

• The Implant and IUDs can be removed at any time by a healthcare professional and effects are reversible on removal.
• The vaginal ring can be removed by yourself at any time.
• The contraceptive injection lasts for 12 weeks and cannot be reversed during that time. After stopping, it may take several months for your periods and fertility to return to normal.

You can access contraception from your GP and several other accessible places. The main options include: GP Practices, Family Planning Clinics, Sexual Health Clinics, Pharmacies, Public Health Services and Online Health Services. It's important to check with the specific provider or clinic about the types of contraception and services they offer, as not all methods are available from all providers.

If you need help finding a provider, many states and territories have services and directories to help you.

Some contraception methods could also help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding, and manage hormonal imbalances. If you have specific needs outside of pregnancy prevention, talk to your healthcare professional about your options.

The effectiveness of contraception depends on the method and how consistently and correctly it’s used. Each person’s needs and usage habits can affect how well a method works, so it's important to discuss options with your healthcare professional.

The time it takes to return to fertility after stopping contraception varies by method and individual. Discuss your family planning at your appointment with your healthcare professional.

Hormonal contraception is a prescription medicine, and all medicines can have side effects. Side effects can vary from person to person, so some people may experience them, while others may not. If you have any concerns about side effects, talk to your healthcare professional.

There are non-hormonal options like condoms, copper IUDs, and fertility awareness methods. To find out more about these, visit our Contraception Options page and talk to your healthcare professional.

Emergency contraception is used after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. Unlike regular contraception, emergency contraception is not intended for regular use. Talk to your healthcare professional if you would like to discuss options for regular use.

Your contraception options may be limited by factors such as life stage, medical conditions, or use of medications. It's important to discuss your medical history with your healthcare professional to find the best option for you.

The cost of contraception depends on the method and can depend on your personal circumstances. In Australia, some contraception methods are subsidised through Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Talk to your healthcare professional for more details.