Contraception will protect you from getting pregnant.
Every month your ovaries produce an egg. The semen that is released when a man ejaculates contains millions of sperm. It takes only one of these sperm to fertilise one of your eggs to begin a pregnancy. Using contraception reduces your risk of getting pregnant when you have sex.
No matter what contraception you choose, you still need a condom to protect you from sexually transmitted infections.
In Australia, there are more than 20,000 new sexually transmitted infections every year. One of the most common is chlamydia, which can lead to infertility if left untreated. A condom is your best protection against infections. If you use a condom – with a water-based lubricant – every time you have sex, you will have less chance of getting HIV/AIDS and many other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
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Your contraception choices
The Pill is not your only option. Other ‘worry free’ options might work better. You and your health provider can talk about the best contraception for you.
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Condoms & diaphragms
Condoms and diaphragms act as barriers to prevent the sperm entering the uterus.
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Contraceptive pills
There are two main types of oral contraceptive pills. The combined pill and the progestogen-only pill (mini pill).
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Emergency contraception or the morning after pill
If you have had unprotected sex or a broken condom, the emergency pill can prevent a pregnancy from starting if taken within a few days. See our video for all the facts.
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The vaginal ring
The vaginal ring contains the same two hormones as in some types of the Pill. It works in the same way as the Pill to prevent an egg being released each month.
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Intra Uterine Device (IUD)
The IUD is a small contraceptive device that is placed inside the uterus. There are two kinds of IUD, the copper IUD and the progestogen IUD
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Contraceptive implants
Contraceptive implants work in a similar way to contraceptive pills. The implant, a small thin flexible rod, contains a hormone that helps to prevent pregnancy.
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Depo Provera
Depo Provera is a hormone used for contraception. It is given by injection and its effects will last for three months at a time.
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Contraception & substance use
If you don’t want to get pregnant, you need to use contraception (birth control). Sometimes drugs or alcohol can affect your ability to make decisions about birth control.
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Disclaimer
The Women’s does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided on the Website or incorporated into it by reference. The Women’s provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept.