Sexual health

Contraception - choices

The method of contraception you choose will depend on your general health, lifestyle and relationships.

Contraception - condoms for men

Condoms are the most effective way to reduce your risk of contracting a sexually transmissible infection (STI) during sex.

Contraception - condoms for women

The female condom is effective in preventing an unplanned pregnancy and protecting against sexually transmissible infections (STIs).

Contraception - diaphragms

The diaphragm acts as a barrier method of contraception.

Contraception - emergency contraception

It is best to take emergency contraception as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours of having unprotected sex, but it still works well within 96 hours (four days).

Contraception - implants and injections

Hormonal contraception for women is available in the form of implants or injections.

Contraception - injections for men

Injectable contraception for men is not yet available in Australia, but might provide a reversible method of male contraception in the future.

Contraception - intrauterine devices (IUD)

Hormonal and copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) are very effective forms of contraception.

Contraception - the Billings method

The Billings method is a cooperative way of family planning that puts the responsibility equally on both partners.

Contraception - the pill

The two types of oral contraception available in Australia are the combined pill and the mini pill.

Contraception - tubal ligation

The most common method of female sterilisation is tubal occlusion, which is the surgical blocking of the fallopian tubes.

Contraception - vaginal ring

The vaginal ring works in a similar way to the oral contraceptive pill to prevent pregnancy.

Contraception - vasectomy

A vasectomy doesn’t interfere with a man’s sexual desire or his ability to reach orgasm.