Contraception options in Australia include condoms, the pill, the vaginal ring, contraceptive implants, injections, hormonal and copper intrauterine devices (IUDs), diaphragms, fertility awareness methods, withdrawal and permanent contraception.
The right option depends on how effectively you want to reduce the chance of pregnancy, whether you want something you need to remember regularly, how you feel about hormones, how a method may affect your bleeding and whether you also want to reduce your risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
A GP, pharmacist or sexual health service can help you work through your options and any health conditions or medicines that may affect your choice.
Compare contraception methods in Australia
Long-acting reversible contraception, often shortened to LARC, includes contraceptive implants and IUDs. These are among the most effective reversible methods because they do not rely on remembering a pill each day or using something every time you have sex.
| Method | How often? | Hormonal? | Reduces STI risk? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contraceptive implant | Up to 3 years | Yes | No |
| Hormonal IUD | 5 to 8 years, depending on the device | Yes | No |
| Copper IUD | 5 or 10 years, depending on the device | No | No |
| Contraceptive injection | About every 3 months | Yes | No |
| Combined or progestogen-only pill | Daily | Yes | No |
| Vaginal ring | Monthly cycle | Yes | No |
| External or internal condoms | Every time you have sex | No | Yes, reduces risk |
| Diaphragm | Every time you have sex | No | No |
| Fertility awareness | Ongoing | No | No |
| Withdrawal | Every time you have sex | No | No |
| Vasectomy or tubal sterilisation | One-off procedure | No | No |
Effectiveness varies between methods. Methods that depend on remembering a pill, tracking fertility or using a product correctly every time generally have a bigger difference between perfect use and typical everyday use.
Hormonal contraception
Combined contraceptive pill
The combined pill contains oestrogen and a progestogen and is taken daily. It mainly works by preventing ovulation and also changes cervical mucus.
It can make bleeding lighter and more predictable for some people, but oestrogen-containing contraception is not suitable for everyone.
Progestogen-only pill
The progestogen-only pill, sometimes called the mini pill, does not contain oestrogen.
It needs to be taken regularly, but the window for a late or missed pill differs between products. Follow the instructions for your particular pill and ask your pharmacist or prescriber if you are unsure.
Contraceptive implant
The contraceptive implant is a small flexible rod placed under the skin of the upper arm by a trained healthcare professional.
In Australia, Implanon NXT provides contraception for up to 3 years.
Bleeding patterns can change while using an implant. Some people have lighter or less frequent bleeding, while others experience irregular or unpredictable bleeding.
Hormonal IUD
A hormonal IUD is placed inside the uterus by a trained healthcare professional and releases a small amount of a progestogen called levonorgestrel.
In Australia:
- Mirena is approved for contraception for up to 8 years.
- Kyleena is approved for contraception for up to 5 years.
Many people experience lighter periods with a hormonal IUD, and some eventually have little or no menstrual bleeding.
The approved duration can differ when an IUD is being used for a reason other than contraception, so follow the advice of the clinician managing your device.
Vaginal ring
The vaginal ring contains oestrogen and a progestogen. NuvaRing is the vaginal contraceptive ring currently available in Australia.
It is inserted into the vagina and generally left in place for three weeks, followed by a one-week ring-free interval before a new ring is inserted.
Contraceptive injection
The contraceptive injection contains a progestogen and is given by a healthcare professional approximately every 3 months.
It can change bleeding patterns, and periods may become irregular, lighter or stop altogether for some people.
Non-hormonal contraception
External and internal condoms
Condoms provide a physical barrier to sperm and are the main contraceptive method that can also reduce the risk of many sexually transmitted infections.
They need to be used correctly every time you have sex. They reduce STI risk but do not eliminate it completely.
Diaphragm
A contraceptive diaphragm is a reusable silicone barrier inserted into the vagina before sex so that it covers the cervix.
Caya is currently the diaphragm available in Australia. It is used with a compatible contraceptive gel and needs to remain in place for at least 6 hours after sex.
A diaphragm does not protect against STIs and is less effective at preventing pregnancy than long-acting methods such as an implant or IUD.
Copper IUD
A copper IUD is a hormone-free device inserted into the uterus by a trained healthcare professional.
Depending on the device, copper IUDs available in Australia can provide contraception for 5 or 10 years.
Copper IUDs can make periods heavier, longer or more painful, particularly during the first few months after insertion.
Fertility awareness methods
Fertility awareness involves identifying fertile days using information such as menstrual cycle timing, cervical mucus and basal body temperature.
It requires consistent tracking and an understanding of fertility signs. It can be more difficult to use reliably when cycles are irregular.
A period tracker on its own is not contraception.
Withdrawal
Withdrawal involves removing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation.
It is less effective at preventing pregnancy than many other contraceptive options and provides no protection against STIs.
Permanent contraception
Vasectomy
A vasectomy blocks the tubes that carry sperm from the testes. It is intended to be a permanent form of contraception.
A vasectomy does not work immediately. Another contraceptive method needs to be used until a semen test confirms that sperm have cleared, usually around 3 months after the procedure.
Reversal is possible in some circumstances but can be difficult and does not guarantee future fertility, so vasectomy should be approached as permanent contraception.
Tubal sterilisation
Tubal sterilisation involves blocking, cutting or removing the fallopian tubes so that sperm and an egg cannot meet.
It is intended to be permanent. Reversal may not be possible or successful, so it is worth discussing permanent and long-acting reversible alternatives with a doctor before deciding.
Emergency contraception
Emergency contraception can reduce the chance of pregnancy after unprotected sex, a missed contraceptive method or a condom that has broken or slipped.
Emergency contraception does not end an established pregnancy. Oral emergency contraception mainly works by delaying or preventing ovulation.
Emergency contraceptive options in Australia
- Levonorgestrel emergency contraceptive pill: Take as soon as possible, preferably within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
- Ulipristal emergency contraceptive pill: Can be used up to 120 hours, or 5 days, after unprotected sex.
- Copper IUD: Can usually be inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex and is the most effective form of emergency contraception. It can then continue to provide ongoing contraception.
Emergency contraceptive pills are available from Australian pharmacies without a prescription.
Body weight and some medicines can affect which oral emergency contraceptive is likely to work best, so tell the pharmacist about medicines you take and ask which option is most appropriate for you.
If you take ulipristal
Starting or restarting progestogen-containing hormonal contraception too soon after ulipristal can reduce its effectiveness.
For many hormonal methods, current guidance recommends waiting 5 days after taking ulipristal before starting or restarting them. Ask your pharmacist or clinician what applies to your contraceptive method and whether you need condoms or another backup method in the meantime.
When should you take a pregnancy test?
Take a pregnancy test if your next period is more than about 7 days late, is unusually light or if a healthcare professional advises you to test.
What if you may have been exposed to HIV?
HIV post-exposure prophylaxis, known as PEP, can reduce the chance of acquiring HIV after a possible exposure, but it must be started quickly.
PEP needs to begin within 72 hours of possible exposure and is taken for 28 days. Contact a sexual health service, emergency department or GP urgently rather than waiting for symptoms.
Which contraception may suit you?
There is no single contraceptive method that is best for everyone.
When comparing options, think about:
- how important maximum pregnancy prevention is to you
- whether you want something you do not have to remember
- whether you also need STI protection
- whether you prefer hormonal or non-hormonal contraception
- how changes to bleeding might affect you
- whether you may want to become pregnant in the near future
- whether you take medicines or have medical conditions that affect your options
Health conditions and oestrogen-containing contraception
Some health conditions particularly affect whether oestrogen-containing contraception, such as the combined pill or vaginal ring, is appropriate.
These methods may not suit people with certain conditions, including migraine with aura, a history or high risk of blood clots and some cardiovascular conditions. Smoking after age 35 can also affect whether an oestrogen-containing method is appropriate.
Progestogen-only and non-hormonal methods have different eligibility criteria, so a condition that rules out the combined pill does not necessarily rule out every hormonal contraceptive.
Medicines can affect contraception
Some medicines can reduce the effectiveness of certain hormonal contraceptives. These can include some epilepsy medicines and herbal products containing St John's wort.
Tell your prescriber or pharmacist about prescription medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements you use.
Tirzepatide and oral contraception
Australian guidance was updated in 2025 because tirzepatide, sold under brands including Mounjaro, may reduce the effectiveness of oral hormonal contraception.
If you use an oral contraceptive, current Australian advice is to use an additional barrier method or switch to a non-oral contraceptive for 4 weeks after starting tirzepatide and for 4 weeks after every dose increase.
Speak with your prescriber or pharmacist about what applies to you.
Contraception during perimenopause
Fertility decreases during perimenopause but pregnancy can still occur until menopause has been reached.
For people not using contraception that alters menstrual bleeding, Australian menopause guidance generally recommends continuing contraception for 2 years after the final natural period if it occurs before age 50, or for 1 year if it occurs at age 50 or later.
Hormonal contraception can make it difficult to know when your final natural period has occurred, so ask your doctor when contraception can safely be stopped.
Choosing and accessing contraception
You can discuss contraception with a GP, sexual health service, family planning clinic or pharmacist.
Access through pharmacists varies across Australia. In some states and territories, trained pharmacists can supply or resupply certain oral contraceptives to eligible people under specific criteria. This does not mean every pharmacy can prescribe every contraceptive method, so check the rules where you live.
Implants and IUDs need to be inserted by appropriately trained healthcare professionals.
Healthdirect's Contraception Options Finder can also help you compare methods before discussing them with a clinician.
Contraception and your periods
Contraception can affect menstrual bleeding in different ways.
- Hormonal IUDs often make periods lighter, and bleeding may stop for some people.
- Contraceptive implants can cause irregular or unpredictable bleeding.
- Copper IUDs may make periods heavier or more painful, particularly at first.
- Combined pills and vaginal rings often make scheduled bleeding lighter and more predictable.
- Contraceptive injections can cause irregular bleeding and may eventually stop periods for some people.
A change in bleeding after starting contraception does not automatically mean something is wrong, but sudden, very heavy or concerning bleeding should still be assessed.
For trans men and transmasculine people using testosterone, it's important to remember that testosterone is not contraception. Even if your periods have stopped, ovulation and pregnancy may still be possible. Learn more about periods and testosterone, including menstrual changes, fertility and pregnancy risk.
Period products such as pads, cloth pads, menstrual cups, discs, sponges and period underwear do not prevent pregnancy or STIs.
If you have an IUD and want to use a menstrual cup or disc, read Can You Use a Menstrual Cup or Disc With an IUD?. Research suggests menstrual cup use may increase the risk of IUD displacement or expulsion for some users, so discuss cup use with the clinician managing your IUD.
When to get medical help
Most contraceptive side effects are not emergencies, but some symptoms need prompt medical attention.
Call triple zero (000) or go to an emergency department if you develop:
- chest pain
- sudden or severe difficulty breathing
- fainting or collapse
- signs of a stroke, such as sudden weakness, difficulty speaking or sudden changes in vision
- severe abdominal or pelvic pain with dizziness, fainting or feeling very unwell, particularly if pregnancy is possible
Seek urgent medical assessment if you develop a painful, swollen or red leg, particularly while using oestrogen-containing contraception, as this can be a sign of a blood clot.
If you have an IUD, seek medical advice promptly if you experience severe or worsening pelvic pain, fever, unusual or offensive-smelling discharge, very heavy bleeding or symptoms of pregnancy.
If you cannot feel your IUD strings, think your contraception may have failed or are experiencing side effects that concern you, contact the healthcare professional managing your contraception.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most effective reversible contraception?
Long-acting reversible methods such as contraceptive implants and IUDs are among the most effective options because they work continuously and do not depend on remembering a daily pill or using something every time you have sex.
Which contraception protects against STIs?
External and internal condoms can reduce the risk of many sexually transmitted infections as well as pregnancy. Other contraceptive methods, including pills, implants, IUDs, injections, diaphragms and fertility awareness, do not protect against STIs.
Is there a hormone-free contraceptive option?
Yes. Hormone-free options include copper IUDs, condoms, diaphragms, fertility awareness, withdrawal and permanent methods such as vasectomy or tubal sterilisation. Their effectiveness and advantages differ, so the right choice depends on your priorities and circumstances.
Which contraception can make periods lighter?
Hormonal IUDs commonly reduce menstrual bleeding, while combined pills and vaginal rings can also make scheduled bleeding lighter and more predictable. Individual responses vary, and some hormonal methods can cause irregular bleeding instead.
Can contraception stop periods?
Yes, some hormonal methods can reduce bleeding enough that periods or withdrawal bleeds stop. This is particularly common with hormonal IUDs, contraceptive injections and some continuous hormonal regimens. Not bleeding while using an appropriate hormonal contraceptive does not necessarily mean anything is wrong.
Can I use a menstrual cup if I have an IUD?
Possibly, but current research suggests menstrual cup use may increase the risk of IUD displacement or expulsion for some people. Discuss cup use with the clinician managing your IUD and always release the cup's seal before removal.
Do I still need contraception during perimenopause?
Usually, yes. Fertility declines during perimenopause but pregnancy can still occur. When contraception can safely be stopped depends on your age, menstrual pattern and the contraceptive method you use, so discuss this with your doctor.
Choosing contraception is personal
The most effective contraceptive method is not automatically the right one for every person. Your health, lifestyle, comfort with hormones, bleeding preferences, future pregnancy plans and need for STI protection can all influence the decision.
If one method does not suit you, that does not mean you have run out of options. A GP, pharmacist or sexual health service can help you compare alternatives and find an approach that works for you.
Related reading
- Can You Use a Menstrual Cup or Disc With an IUD?
- Menstrual Cups vs Discs: How to Choose
- The Menstrual Cycle: A Guide to Understanding Your Body
- First Period After Childbirth: What to Expect
Sources
- Healthdirect Australia, Contraception options
- Healthdirect Australia, Intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD)
- Healthdirect Australia, Safe sex and emergency contraception
- Family Planning Australia, Contraception
- Therapeutic Goods Administration, Mirena product information and regulatory decision
- Therapeutic Goods Administration, Kyleena
- Therapeutic Goods Administration, Implanon NXT
- Therapeutic Goods Administration, Updated contraception advice for tirzepatide
- Australasian Menopause Society, Contraception in perimenopause
This article provides general educational information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Speak with a GP, pharmacist, sexual health clinician or other qualified healthcare professional about which contraceptive methods are appropriate for you.