General Gynaecology

Contraception

There are a number of methods available to help prevent pregnancy, with some of the most popular including condoms and birth control pills. Deciding which method is right can be tough because there are many issues to consider, including costs, future pregnancy plans, side effects, and others.

Birth control methods vary widely with respect to their effectiveness. Contraceptives can fail for a number of reasons, including incorrect use and failure of the medication, device, or method itself.

Overall, birth control methods that are designed for use at or near the time of sex (eg, the condom, diaphragm) are generally less effective than other birth control methods (eg, IUD, birth control pill).

Certain birth control methods, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the implant have the lowest risk of failure (pregnancy). This is because they are the easiest to use properly. You should consider these methods if you want the lowest chance of a mistake or failure, which could lead to pregnancy.

If you forget to use birth control or if your method fails, there is an option to reduce your risk of becoming pregnant for up to five days after you have sex. This is called the morning after pill, or emergency contraception.

Permanent birth control methods includes tubal ligation for women and vasectomy for men. These procedures are permanent, and should only be considered after you discuss all available options with your GP and if you are certain you wish to permanently prevent pregnancy. Tubal ligation is usually done as day case surgery through a key hole procedure.

https://jeanhailes.org.au/contents/documents/Resources/Fact_sheets/Yarning_about_contraception.pdf