Contraception & Pregnancy

What is contraception? 

Contraception helps prevent pregnancy. It can be used by people who don’t want to become pregnant from penis in vagina sex.  

Some types of hormonal contraception can also help manage period pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and other hormonal symptoms.   

Condoms are the only type of contraception that also help prevent sexually transmissible infections (STIs).  

Talking about contraception with your sexual partner(s) before having sex is important. Everyone involved shares responsibility for using contraception safely and consistently. 

What are the different types of contraception? 

There are many different types of contraception available. The type of contraception you use is your choice. Your doctor can help you understand the benefits and side-effects of each option.  

There are three main types of contraception: 

1. Hormonal contraception 

These use hormones to make changes to the body that prevent pregnancy. Options include:  

• Contraceptive pill: a tablet taken daily  
• Hormonal IUD (Intrauterine Device): a small device inserted into the uterus by a trained clinician  
• Implant: a small device put under your skin (usually in arm)  
• Contraceptive injection: a hormonal injection you get every few months
  

2. Barrier methods 

These prevent the exchange of body fluids during sex. Options include: 

• External condom:  worn on a penis or sex toy 
• Internal condom: worn inside the vagina or anus 

3. Non-hormonal methods

• Copper IUD: a small device inserted in the uterus by a trained clinician
• Contraceptive diaphragm: a soft silicone cup plased inside the vagina before sex 

To learn more about how effective each method is, check out the Family Planning Alliance Australia factsheet – How effective is my contraceptive method?
 

How much does contraception cost? 

The cost can vary.

• Long-acting options like the IUD or implant cost more upfront but last longer.
• Oral options, like the contraceptive pill cost less at first but need to be bought every 2–4 months.  

Your Overseas Student Health Cover may cover some contraception costs. Check your member guide or ask your Overseas Student Health Cover provider for information about what is covered. More information can be found on the Overseas Student Health Cover explained page. 

What is emergency contraception? 

Emergency contraception can be used after unprotected sex to help prevent an unplanned pregnancy.  

Unprotected sex can mean: 

• sex without contraception  
• a condom breaking or slipping off during sex 
• sexual assault. 

The emergency contraceptive pill is safe and works best if taken right away – ideally within 24 hours, but it can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex.   

You can get it from a pharmacy. No prescription or doctor visit needed.

If you or someone you know is experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, you can get free and confidential information and support on your options. Call the Pregnancy Choices Helpline on 1800 008 463 Monday – Friday. 

To learn more about contraception visit the learning hub.