Contraception

Contraception helps prevent pregnancy through various methods. Consult a registered online doctor in 15 minutes for medical advice. Available 24/7 across Australia.

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This guide does not replace professional care. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately.

About contraception

Contraception also known as birth control are various methods used to prevent unplanned pregnancies. Beyond preventing pregnancy, some contraception methods are also used for other health benefits such as regulating menstrual cycles, reducing hormonal skin conditions or reducing the risk of certain type of cancers. It is important to know that each method of contraception works differently.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

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    When to consult a doctor for contraception advice?

    It is important to choose the right contraception method for your body condition and specific goal. A medical practitioner will give you advice on
    which method works best for you, avoiding any complications that might arise with the wrong choice. See a doctor if:

    • First time: If you are starting birth control for the first time
    • Side effects: If you are experiencing side effects with your existing contraception method
    • Medical advice: If you have any concerns about using contraception or about a method of contraception.
    • Postpartum: If you are considering birth control post a pregnancy or a miscarriage
    • Change in method: If you are considering a change in the birth control method.

    Please note: Contraception can be managed through personalised advice from a healthcare professional via telehealth. For urgent concerns or
    severe complications, dial 000 or visit the nearest hospital.

    Tips to choose a contraception

    Here are some tips on how to choose a contraception:
    • Effectiveness: Some methods are more effective than others at preventing pregnancy.
    • Convenience: Don’t want to worry about popping a pill daily then long-acting methods might be a good choice.
    • Side effects: Find one that suits your body as some hormonal methods may cause side effects.
    • Protection against STIs: Only barrier methods, such as condoms, provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.
    • Reversibility: If you want to have children in the future, choose a method that is easily reversible, such as birth control pills or an IUD.

    Contraception symptoms and risk factors

    There are many types of contraception available, and each works differently. These methods can range from hormonal options like pills, patches, and injections, to barrier methods such as condoms and diaphragms. There are also long-term solutions like IUDs and implants, as well as permanent options like sterilisation. Each method works differently, whether by preventing the release of eggs, blocking sperm, or changing the environment in the uterus. Here’s an overview of the most common methods:

    • Birth control pills or oral contraceptives
    • Patches and injections
    • Vaginal rings
    • Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
    • Implants
    • Condoms (male and female)
    • Diaphragms and cervical caps
    • Emergency contraception methods such as morning-after pills
    • Copper IUD
    • Some permanent methods such as tubal ligation (for women) or vasectomy (for men)

    How effective are birth control methods?

    Birth control methods vary in effectiveness. Hormonal options like IUDs and implants are over 99% effective, while birth control pills, patches, and injections are about 91-94% effective with typical use. Barrier methods, such as condoms, are around 85% effective. It’s important to choose a method that fits your lifestyle and use it correctly to maximise its effectiveness.

    How soon can I get pregnant after stopping contraception?

    The time it takes to get pregnant after stopping contraception varies by method. For most forms of birth control, such as pills, patches, or IUDs, fertility typically returns quickly, often within a few weeks. However, for hormonal injections, it may take more time. If you have concerns about conceiving after stopping contraception, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for personalised advice.

    Can an online doctor help with contraception if the GP near me is not available?

    Yes, an online doctor can help with contraception if the doctor near you is not available. No need to search for “doctors in Sydney” or “doctors in Brisbane”, you can get medical advice, online scripts and more from the comfort of your home 24/7 and within 15 minutes

    How can we help?

    We provide a fast and convenient way for you to see a doctor from the comfort of your own home, or on the go with your phone or any smart device. Using our secure telehealth platform, you can have a video call with a registered health practitioner or a doctor on-demand in 15 minutes or less. We’re open every day, 24 hours a day – including public holidays – because we know illness and injury can happen anytime, day or night, and need immediate medical attention.

    Much like an in-person GP clinic, our telehealth doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including:

    • pre-existing conditions, family history and lifestyle.
    • preferred treatment options and how to access them.
    • individualised advice to manage your condition.
    • referrals or scripts for various conditions (if required) at the discretion of the doctor.

    Talk to a doctor today

    Telehealth helps you connect with an AHPRA-licensed online doctor within minutes. Hola Health provides 24/7 access to qualified medical practitioners in Australia within 15 minutes for:

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