Contraception
Contraception Options for Every Lifestyle
At Blue Water Medical, we are committed to providing a comprehensive and personalised approach to contraception, ensuring you find the method that best suits your health, lifestyle, and personal preferences. We offer a wide range of contraception options, from short-term solutions like pills, and injectables, to long-term methods such as IUDs and implants, as well as permanent options for those seeking a lasting solution.
Our team of medical professionals is here to guide you every step of the way, offering expert advice, answering your questions, and addressing any concerns you may have. We believe that every individual deserves to feel confident and in control of their reproductive health, which is why we prioritise your comfort and empowerment throughout the decision making process.
Whether you’re exploring your options for the first time or considering a change to better align with your evolving needs, Your reproductive health is our priority, and we are dedicated to helping you make informed choices that work for your body and your life.
Contraception Methods Available
Condoms
Condoms are a popular barrier method of contraception that provides dual protection by preventing pregnancy and reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Benefits:
- Non-invasive and easy to use.
- No hormonal side effects.
- Readily available without a prescription.
Key Considerations:
- Consistent and correct usage is necessary for maximum effectiveness.
- Single-use and requires replacement with each sexual encounter.
Diaphragm (Caya)
A diaphragm is a reusable, dome-shaped Silicon (latex free) barrier device inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix, preventing sperm from entering. It’s one size fits most women. It’s a good idea to see your doctor, women’s health centre or family planning to check it’s a good fit. This can be done at Blue Water Medical by Dr Sue Brumby
Benefits:
- Hormone-free alternative.
- Can be used on demand.
- Reusable for up to two years with proper care.
- Prevent STI’s for women
Key Considerations:
- It can be bought online or from some chemists.
- Must be used with spermicide for optimal effectiveness (Caya Spermicide).
- Needs to remain in place for at least six hours after intercourse.
The Pill
Birth control pills are a highly effective hormonal method taken daily to prevent ovulation and make the uterine lining less receptive to pregnancy.
Benefits:
- Regulates menstrual cycles and reduces cramps.
- Can improve acne and reduce symptoms of PMS.
- Highly effective when taken consistently.
Key Considerations:
- Requires daily commitment.
- May have potential side effects such as nausea or headaches.
- Not suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen.
The Nuvaring
The Nuvaring is a small, flexible hormonal ring inserted into the vagina monthly. It slowly releases hormones to prevent ovulation.
Benefits:
- Low maintenance with a monthly application.
- Provides similar benefits to the pill, including cycle regulation.
Key Considerations:
- Requires insertion and removal on a schedule.
- May not be suitable for women with certain medical histories or who can’t take Oestrogen.
IUD (Intrauterine Device)
An IUD is a small, T-shaped device placed inside the uterus by a healthcare provider to prevent pregnancy. It comes in both hormonal and non-hormonal forms.
Benefits:
Highly effective and long-lasting (5–10 years depending on type).
Low maintenance after insertion.
Easily reversible with quick return to fertility once removed.
Key Considerations:
Requires a clinical procedure for insertion and removal.
May cause cramping or spotting initially.
Not suitable for women with certain uterine conditions.
Mirena
Mirena is a hormonal IUD that releases progestogen to prevent pregnancy and can also reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.
Benefits:
Long-lasting protection (up to 8 years).
Can significantly reduce or even stop periods over time.
Highly effective with minimal daily effort.
Key Considerations:
Must be inserted and removed by a healthcare provider.
May cause spotting or irregular bleeding initially.
Not suitable for women with certain health conditions.
Kyleena
Kyleena is a lower-dose hormonal IUD that provides long-term contraception while maintaining lighter hormonal exposure.
Benefits:
Effective for up to 5 years.
Smaller size may make insertion more comfortable.
Provides reliable contraception with minimal maintenance.
Key Considerations:
Requires clinical insertion and removal.
May cause irregular bleeding in the first months.
Not suitable for everyone, depending on medical history.
Copper IUD
The copper IUD is a hormone-free device that prevents pregnancy by releasing copper ions, which are toxic to sperm.
Benefits:
Long-lasting protection (up to 10 years).
Non-hormonal option for women who prefer or require hormone-free contraception.
Provides highly effective and reversible contraception.
Key Considerations:
Requires insertion and removal by a healthcare provider.
May cause heavier periods and stronger cramps, especially in the first few months.
Not suitable for women with copper allergies or certain uterine conditions.
Implanon
Implanon is a small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy for up to three years.
Benefits:
Very effective and long-lasting.
Low maintenance once inserted.
Reversible at any time by removal.
Key Considerations:
Requires insertion and removal by a healthcare professional.
May cause irregular bleeding patterns.
Some users may experience side effects such as mood changes or weight fluctuations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Contraception in Australia
What is the most effective form of contraception?
Effectiveness can vary based on individual health needs and how consistently a method is used. Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC), such as IUDs and contraceptive implants, is generally considered the most effective option because it provides reliable protection for several years without requiring daily user adherence.
How do I choose the right contraception for my lifestyle?
Choosing the right method is a highly personal decision that should be made in consultation with a medical professional. At Blue Water Medical, we conduct a holistic health assessment, considering your medical history, current medications, and lifestyle preferences to help you identify a contraception method that fits your body and your life.
Can I get contraception that doesn't use hormones?
Yes, there are several hormone-free contraception options available, including the Copper IUD, barrier methods like diaphragms (Caya), and condoms. Our doctors can discuss the benefits and considerations of these non-hormonal methods during a private consultation.
Does contraception protect against sexually transmissible infections (STIs)?
Most forms of hormonal contraception and LARC methods do not protect against STIs. Barrier methods, such as condoms, are the primary form of contraception that provides dual protection by reducing the risk of pregnancy and the transmission of STIs.
How do I book an appointment for contraception advice?
If you are exploring your options or considering a change in your current method, you can book a contraception consultation through our website or by contacting our clinic directly. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, confidential support to help you reclaim control of your reproductive health.
Choosing the right contraception doesn’t have to be Difficult
Choosing the right contraception can feel overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. At Blue Water Medical, our expert team is here to guide you through your options, answer your questions, and find the method that fits your life perfectly.
Reclaim control and confidence in your reproductive health with our caring support.