Confused about which contraception* option might be best for you?
*Contraception refers to methods or devices that prevent pregnancy.
If you don’t want to get pregnant there are many methods to prevent a pregnancy. Some methods require daily action, while others are long term and with minimal maintenance. Most methods do not affect future fertility and reversible. Many methods contain hormones to change the way your body works. These hormones are safe although they can have some positive or negative side effects. Choosing the best option is about considering your own circumstances and what is most important for you.
The SPHERE Centre of Research Excellence has developed a video resource explaining the different types of contraception you can access in Australia, with translated versions available as well - Arabic, Cantonese, Mandarin and Hindi. To watch the video, visit their page here.
Choosing contraception is also about getting reliable information about methods. Visit the website below to use a simple tool to help you decide on the best option for you:
Once you choose an option it is important to seek support early to prevent an unplanned pregnancy. For the most effective contraception methods this will require at least one appointment with a doctor. Visit the Reliable Information page to learn more about accessing health information, services and support.
What is Reproductive Coercion?
Reproductive coercion refers to behaviours that involve pressure, manipulation, emotional blackmail, threats, and other kinds of abuse to influence a person’s reproductive choices.1 Such behaviours that either promote or prevent pregnancy can fall under reproductive coercion, and they can occur in many different forms.2 By restricting access to your choice of contraception or related support, or forcing you to use contraception, your reproductive rights are being compromised. You can access further help and support around reproductive health from Children By Choice here, as well as a quick overview of reproductive coercion here (PDF, 157.7 KB).
If you require assistance or would like to reach out to a trained professional, please call:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Sexual Assault and Family Violence Service: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
Please call Police at 000 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger.
Referrals
- Visit the UQ Health Centre. To make an appointment regarding IUD insertion or pregnancy options please telephone the health centre directly (call: (07) 3365 6210)
- Visit a Family Planning Service
- Speak with your doctor, or search for a GP
- Use Children by Choice’s search to find specific services near you (e.g. LGBTIQA+ friendly services, no Medicare card required) or to get in contact with a professional.
- Your Overseas Health Insurance Provider. Contraception consults and devices coverage will depend on your policy. Please check with the Overseas Health Insurance Provider you are currently with.
Remember it is important to know that seeking support is ok. Seeking support early can help relieve stress and worry, and help improve your overall wellbeing by giving you more control over your health.
No taboo, there is support for you.
References:
Australian Government. Australian Institute of Family Studies [Internet]. 2023 [updated 2024; cited 2024 May 21]. Available from: https://aifs.gov.au/resources/practice-guides/reproductive-coercion-and-abuse
Children By Choice. Violence and Control [Internet]. 2024 [cited 2024 May 21]. Available from: https://www.childrenbychoice.org.au/information-support/violence-control/
