Contraceptive Advice in Mackay
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Mackay Contraceptive Advice
12+
Years
Experience.
Choosing the right contraception method for your body involves a lot of factors. Aside from talking about it openly with your partner, it is also important to consider each method’s effectiveness, side effects and overall cost.
The friendly doctors at One Stop Medical can talk to you about reproductive health and give expert contraceptive advice on how you can use different types of contraception.
Some of the most common contraception methods include the following:
- Contraceptive Pill
- Contraceptive implant (or "the bar")
- Condoms (male & female)
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Injections (Depo)
Contraceptive Implants
Contraceptive implants are available in Australia as Implanon NXT™. A long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) method, this is a small plastic rod that is inserted under the skin of your upper arm.
This releases the hormone progesterone in small doses, preventing your ovaries from releasing eggs every month. Your period may change drastically if not stop altogether.
Implants last for up to three years and can be easily removed later if you decide to become pregnant. This is also safe to use even for breastfeeding individuals.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
An intrauterine device is a small T-shaped rod that is inserted inside your uterus. You can choose from either copper IUDs which last from 3-5 years or hormone-releasing IUDs which lasts for 5 years.
IUDs stops sperm from reaching an egg. It also alters the lining of your uterus so a fertilised egg will not implant itself on your uterus. Copper IUDs can increase your period flow, while hormone-releasing IUDs can either reduce your period flow or stop your period altogether.
This type of contraception is guaranteed safe for breastfeeding individuals and can be used together with other medication.
Injections (depo shot)
Contraceptive injections are also known as Depo-Provera™ or Depo-Ralovera™ or simply Depo. Each shot contains a progesterone-like hormone that is injected every 12-14 weeks.
This stops the ovulation process and makes the fluid on the uterus opening thicker, stopping sperm from getting through. You will experience changes on your period or it may stop completely.
Male & Female Condoms
Condoms are barrier contraception methods and has male and female versions. Male condoms are 98% effective if used correctly.
These are relatively cheaper than other contraceptive methods and can be bought even without a doctor’s prescription. On the other hand, female condoms are 95% effective if used correctly.
These can be bought from sexual health clinics, retail outlets and from Family Planning Victoria (by mail order).
Diaphragm
The single size diaphragm is also known as Caya™ in Australia. Diaphragms are soft silicone domes that fit in the vagina. This stops sperm from getting through by blocking the uterine entrance. This can be bought from pharmacies and sexual health clinics.
We recommend seeing a doctor first before buying your own diaphragm since 15% of users are unable to fit their diaphragm correctly. These are 86% effective if used correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right contraceptive method for me?
The right contraceptive depends on a few things—your age, medical history, future pregnancy plans, lifestyle, and how comfortable you are with certain methods. Some people prefer a method they don’t have to think about every day, while others want something they can stop quickly if their plans change. Your GP can go through your options, talk through the pros and cons of each, and answer questions about side effects, how to use them correctly, and what to expect. They may also consider factors like skin health, mood, menstrual symptoms, or existing health conditions when recommending options.
Can teenagers access contraception without their parents?
In Australia, people under 18 can access contraception without parental consent if the doctor believes they fully understand the information and consequences of their decision. This is called being a "mature minor". The GP will talk to you privately and explain your rights, including confidentiality. In most cases, your health information won’t be shared unless there's a serious concern for your safety. You’ll have the chance to ask questions and discuss options openly during the appointment. It’s okay to come with a support person, but you can also attend the appointment on your own.
What should I expect during a contraceptive advice appointment?
A contraceptive advice appointment usually starts with a conversation about your health, period history, any medications you’re taking, and what matters most to you in a contraceptive method—such as convenience, reversibility, or side effects. Your GP may talk through several options, explain how each one works, and help you understand how to use them effectively. In some cases, they may recommend a check-up or order tests before starting a new method. You’ll also have a chance to ask any questions you have, and there’s no pressure to make a decision on the spot if you need more time to think.
