What is the best contraception method for you?

03/08/2022

Contraception can be confusing! To help you, our experts have investigated some of the more popular contraceptives in Australia including how they work, and who they’re best suited for, so you can make an informed choice about the best contraception method for you.

Morning after pill

Also known as the ‘emergency pill’, the morning after pill can help prevent pregnancy after sex. It’s effective 80–98 per cent of the time, and is more effective the sooner you take it, although some can be taken up to five days after sex.

The morning after pill works by stopping you from ovulating, and also by slowing down sperm, so the chances of any sperm reaching an egg are minimised. You can take the morning after pill as many times as you would like, but it’s likely to upset your menstrual cycle if you take it twice in the same month. The lower rate of effectiveness means the morning after pill is recommended as an emergency measure rather than a regular contraceptive.

Condom

A condom for men works by creating a barrier that collects semen so it does not enter the vagina, which means it also prevents many other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from passing from one person to the other.

To put it on, place the condom against the end of the erect penis, and gently unroll it down to the base. It should fit comfortably but firmly. If it doesn’t go on the first time, or if it tears, throw the condom away and try again with a new one. If the condom breaks, the morning after pill can provide back-up contraception, and you may also wish to talk to your doctor about potential exposure to STIs.

When used correctly, condoms are 95–99 per cent effective.

Female condom

Like the male condom, the female condom provides a barrier and pouch that collects sperm, but the female condom is a soft pouch that is inserted into the vagina before having sex.

The female condom has flexible rings at each end, with one end enclosed. The open end spreads outside of the vagina, and you guide the penis into it.

Diaphragm

A diaphragm is a flexible silicone dome that acts as a barrier across the cervix. It is inserted into the vagina like a tampon before sex. The diaphragm needs to be left in place for at least six hours after sex to prevent sperm from reaching the uterus, and can then be removed by hooking your finger under the front rim and gently pulling it out.

Diaphragms are 86 per cent effective with ‘perfect’ use, and 82 per cent effective with ‘real life’ use, but it can be an option if you require non-hormonal birth control.

A diaphragm generally costs around $100 and can be purchased from a family planning clinic.

More women’s health information

For more information on contraceptive options, you should speak to a doctor . You can request a telehealth consultation with one of our Australian-registered doctors from anywhere in Australia, seven days a week.

To speak with an InstantScripts Doctor:

Request a Consultation

If you have run out of your script:

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Here are some more articles that may help in your research and understanding.

Sources:

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/contraception-intrauterine-devices-iud

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/morning-after-pill

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/contraception-condoms-for-men

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healt h yliving/contraception-condoms-for-women

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/contraception-the-pill

https://www.fpnsw.org.au/factsheets/individuals/contraception/contraceptive-diaphragm