Contraception is a type of product that prevents pregnancy and/or contracting STIs.

To make a decision about what kind of contraception will be best for you, it’s important to understand all the different types of contraception available, and how well it will prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

Remember: no method of contraception is 100% effective at preventing pregnancy, unless you practise abstinence (which means no sex at all).

If you do choose to have sex, give yourself the best chance to avoid pregnancy or a sexually transmitted disease by learning how to use contraception properly.

What kinds of contraception are there?

Contraception types can be split into three different categories:

1. Barriers (condoms, dams)
2. Oral contraception (birth control pills)
3. Fit and forget methods (such as IUD)

Barrier contraceptives

Includes: Condoms, dams, diaphragm, cervical cap, sponge

• “Barrier” contraceptives physically block contact from sperm and/or STIs.
• A (male) condom placed over the shaft of the penis will physically prevent sperm from entering the womb and fertilising an egg (which prevents pregnancy). A condom will also protect you from STIs.
• Dams (a female condom) can be placed over the vulva, providing protection from STIs.
• Diaphragms, cervical caps, and sponges are usually used with ‘spermicide’, a product which kills sperm. Diaphragms, cervical caps, sponges are good for preventing pregnancy but it won’t protect you from STIs.
• When used correctly, a condom is an excellent choice of contraception. Easy to use, affordable and it will protect you from both pregnancy and STIs. However, there is a small risk of the condom breaking or slipping off during sex (1-12%).
• If you prefer condoms, it’s important to be aware of stealthing. Stealthing occurs when the condom wearer removes the condom without their partner’s consent. Stealthing is a form of sexual assault in many states in Australia.

Oral contraceptives

Also known as: the pill, birth control pills

• Birth control pills are a form of hormonal contraception taken daily by mouth.
• They prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation and making it more difficult for sperm to penetrate the cervix.
• Birth control pills may have side effects like nausea, breakthrough bleeding, cramping and possibly breast tenderness.
• It can also change your vaginal discharge or lower your libido (sexual desire).
• Being on the pill won’t protect you from STIs

Fit and forget methods

Includes: Hormonal IUD, Copper IUD, Implanon, contraception injections, vaginal ring 

• Fit and forget forms of contraception are a good long term option to prevent pregnancy; they will not protect you from STIs
• IUDs and implants last between 3-5 years
• Needs to be fitted or removed by a doctor
• Some fit and forget options (like the hormonal IUD and Implanon) prevent pregnancy by releasing a slow dose of progesterone hormone into the uterus. Periods become lighter or stop altogether.

Where can I get contraception?

For ongoing contraception (like birth control pills or IUDs) you will need to see a doctor. You could see your existing doctor or head to a Sexual Health Clinic. These are free to access.

Follow the links below to find a clinic near you:

• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• Queensland
• South Australia
• Tasmania
• Victoria
• Western Australia

For barrier contraception (like condoms or dams) visit a pharmacy or supermarket. You can also order these products online, if that is a more comfortable option.

I had sex and didn’t use contraception! What should I do?

If this happens to you, breathe. It’s going to be okay. You’re not alone — it happens to everyone at some point in their life. 

If you’re worried about pregnancy, you have two options:

1. Emergency contraception (used to be called the ‘morning after pill’)
2. Abortion

If you don’t take any action, you may become pregnant. Think carefully about whether being pregnant and having a baby is something that you want. The choice is yours to make.

If you’re worried about contracting an STI, you should:

• Make an appointment to see a GP (doctor) or visit a Sexual Health Clinic as soon as possible. They will test to see if you have caught anything from your recent sexual encounter.
• If you have an STI, it’s important to let your sexual partner know, so that they can get checked out as well.