02 9413 2538 
Contraception
It is advisable to plan when you have a family. A number of factors will impact on your decision to have children, such as relationship stability, parental health and wellbeing, financial stability. You are able to manage your fertility by using contraception. There are many different types of contraception and the doctors at Gynaecare will offer you expert advice as to which is right for you, and your partner. Contraceptive methods are divided into non-hormonal, hormonal and permanent.
Hormonal
Intra-uterine system (IUS)
The IUS is a revolution for womens health. Not only does it provide highly effective contraception for upto 5 years, but also tends to reduce the amount and length of periods which usually means less painful periods. It can be inserted early in the menstrual cycle after a TOP and in breastfeeding women soon after delivery. We are happy to insert IUS for you at Gynaecare with or without sedation. It is immediately reversible, and can be taken out easily without anaesthetic in the clinic. The IUS can also be used to provide the progestergenic component of Hormone Replacement Therapy during the menopause.
Oral contraception (the pill or minipill)
There are many different types of contraceptive pill available. Sometimes, it is necessary to change pills to find one that is suitable. Some women find that certain pills may have side effects eg, headaches or skin breakouts. Pills can either be combined (oestrogen and progesterone) or progesterone alone. Taken correctly the pill can provide excellent contraception and cycle control.
Emergency Contraception
If a condom breaks or unprotected sexual intercourse occurs, it is possible to reduce the chances of pregnancy occuring. This is in the form of a single pill that is available over the counter at pharmacies. It needs to be taken within 72 hrs of the unprotected sexual activity.
Vaginal ring
The vaginal ring is a thin silicone ring which is placed in the vagina much like a tampon. The ring releases hormones which are absorbed into the blood supply giving contraceptive cover in the same way as the pill. The benefit is that a woman using the ring does not need to remember contraception on a daily basis like the pill. A new ring is used every month.
Implant
The contraceptive implant is a tiny rod which is inserted under the skin in the upper inner arm. It slowly releases a form of progesterone into the blood stream and lasts for 3 years. We can do this for you at Gynaecare under local anaesthetic. The best time to have it inserted is during ther period.
Depot contraceptive injection
The depot injection is given every 3 months into the buttock or upper arm. It is an effective form of contraception, but it may take time for its effects to wear off after use.
Non Hormonal
Intra-Uterine Device (IUD)
The non hormonal IUD is placed in the uterus with or without sedation at Gynaecare. It contains a small amount of copper which provides contraception. In some women it can make periods longer/ or heavier. The IUD lasts for 5-10 years depending on which type is used. It is easily removed and immediately reversible.
Condoms
Condoms are an excellent form of barrier contraception. They provide protection against sexually transmitted infection, as well as contraception. If a condom breaks, it is advisable to take emergency contraception within 72 hrs of sexual intercourse.
Diaphragm
Whilst not the most effective form of contraception, the diaphragm offers a drug free barrier form of contraception which suits some women, ie those who cannot use any hormonal methods or those with naturally reduced fertility. The doctors at Gynaecare can fit you for your size of diaphragm.
Natural family planning
Awareness of a woman's fertility can help couples plan their families without the assistance of any medication or device. Through the understanding and observance of natural physiological changes, couples can avoid pregnancy or enhance the chances of conception. Our expert doctors at Gynaecare can train you regarding awareness of your natural fertility to avoid or maximise the chances of pregnancy.
Permanent forms of contraception
Vasectomy
Vasectomy is a permanent form of contraception involving a simple procedure which blocks the passage of sperm from the testicles into the ejaculate. It is popular in men who feel they do not want to father further children and do not want to rely on other forms of contraception.
Tubal ligation
This is another permanent form of contraception which blocks the passage of the eggs down the fallopian tubes so that they cannot be fertilized. It is usually performed in hospital under general anaesthetic because the tubes are deep in the pelvis and so there are more possible complications.
It is popular in women who do not want to have further children and other forms of contraception are not suitable. We cannot do this procedure at Gynaecare's Artarmon (Sydney lower north shore) clinic but will refer you to a specialist if necessary.
