The Pill’s real life effectiveness is about 93%. It may not work if you have severe vomiting or diarrhoea or taking certain other medications.
The combined pill is made up of oestrogen and progesterone. The two hormones work together by mainly stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg each month.
As long as there are no medical reasons, women may safely use the pill up to the age of 50. There are also tablet options that contain the single hormone progesterone, which may be safer for those at higher risk of bloods clots such as those who smoke.
Intrauterine devices like Mirena or Kyleena have a >99.9% effectiveness. It is the most cost-effective and has the highest satisfaction rating.
These are small plastic T-shaped devices with a hormone called levonorgestrel in their stem. These are placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy and lasts for 5 years and can be removed any time.
Hormonal IUDs are perfect for women who want a reliable, long-term contraceptive.
We also offer copper IUDs which are non-hormonal and can last up to 10 years as birth control
They can be very effective at reducing bleeding. Fertility goes back to normal once the IUD is removed.
You will typically need three visits.
First Visit (20-30 minutes):
This assesses your suitability for an IUD. Risks and side effects will be discussed and a script will be provided.
Second Visit (30-40 minutes):
The insertion usually takes about 10 minutes by a specially trained doctor and nurse.
Third visit (10 minute):
6 weeks later the IUD strings are checked and the doctor will find out how you are going on the new contraception.
Costs are available on our Fees and Costs page.
The implant (called Implanon in Australia) has an effectiveness of 99.95%.
This is a small flexible rod, smaller than a match-stick. It is placed under the skin of the upper arm and can last 3 years.
It works by thickening the cervical mucous in the cervix so sperm cannot enter the uterus, and can stop an egg being released from the ovaries.
The real life effectiveness is approximately 96%. The injection works for 12 weeks.
The injection contains progesterone that stops ovaries from releasing an egg and prevents sperm from entering the uterus by thickening the mucus in the cervix.
The effectiveness in real life is 93% and needs to be replaced monthly.
It is a soft plastic ring containing oestrogen and progesterone. You insert the ring into your vagina and it works by preventing a woman’s eggs from being released from her ovaries and thickens the mucus in the cervix so sperm cannot enter the uterus.
After 3 weeks you take the ring out and put a new ring in after 1 week.
Most women cannot feel the vaginal ring once it is in place. The vaginal ring might be a good choice for women who find it hard to remember to take a pill every day.