Contraception

At Toowoomba Obstetrics and Gynaecology, we provide women with a diverse range of contraceptive options to prevent pregnancy or manage other gynaecological concerns. The best contraceptive device for you depends on your health, partners, lifestyle and preferences; all options may not be suitable for all women.

Access to contraception allows women to take charge of their reproductive health and make informed decisions about family planning, and TOAG is passionate about providing support in this area.

Contraception | Toowoomba Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Oral Contraception | Toowoomba Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Oral Contraceptives

The oral contraceptive pill (OCP) is a type of medication consumed to prevent pregnancy. An OCP contains synthetic hormones that regulate a person's reproductive system and prevent ovulation. At TOAG, we offer two types of OCPs that contain different hormones: the combined oral contraceptive pill (COC) and the progestogen-only pill (POP). Women are not protected from STI or STD transmission through the Pill, and other forms of contraception should be implemented in tandem for such protection.

Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill (COC)

The combined oral contraceptive pill – more widely known as 'the Pill' – contains two synthetic hormones: estrogen and progestin. These hormones inhibit ovulation, thicken the cervical mucus, and thin the uterus lining, thereby preventing the fertilisation of an egg.

COCs are taken daily, at the same time each day, with packets supplying 21- or 28-days' worth of pills. A 4-day break for menstruation is directed in the 28-day packs. There are many brands of COCs, and some individuals respond better to some than others; side effects may be experienced.

Progestogen-Only Pill (POP)

Also known as the mini-pill, the POP only contains progestin, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. It primarily works by thickening the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach and fertilise the egg. It is important to take the POP at the same time each day, without any breaks, to prevent pregnancy.

Many women who cannot consume the combined oral contraceptive pill due to medical concerns can take the POP.

Long-Acting Reversible Contraception

Long-lasting reversible contraception methods provides effective, convenient and ongoing protection against pregnancy for an extended period without women having to remember to take a daily pill. These contraceptive options are reversible, meaning fertility can be restored after discontinuing use.

It is important to note that long-acting reversible contraceptive methods do provide protection against STIs and STDs, and additional protection, such as condom use, is recommended.

Mirena | Contraception | Toowoomba Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Mirena (Hormonal IUD)

Mirena is the brand name for a small, T-shaped hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional and used for contraception. The Mirena IUD releases a progestin hormone called levonorgestrel directly into the uterus. This hormone thickens the cervical mucus and thins the uterine lining, which can prevent the implantation of a fertilised egg.

Mirena effectively prevents pregnancy for up to 5 years, with a failure rate of less than 1%. If a woman with an IUD wishes to become pregnant, a professional can easily remove the device.

Copper IUD

A copper intrauterine device is another IUD inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional to prevent pregnancy. However, unlike hormonal IUDs, the copper IUD does not release any hormones.

A copper IUD is a small, T-shaped device made of plastic with a copper wire coiled around its stem. This device creates an environment in the uterus that is toxic to sperm, preventing fertilisation. Copper also slows egg movement through the fallopian tubes and alters uterus lining characteristics, further preventing pregnancy.

Copper IUDs are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, with a failure rate of less than 1%. They provide contraception for an extended period, typically 5 to 10 years, depending on the specific device.

Side effects can include heavier or more painful periods, so this may not be a suitable option for all women. A healthcare professional can remove a copper IUD should the woman wish to become pregnant.

Implanon

Implanon is the brand name for the only hormonal contraceptive implant in Australia, and it constitutes a 4cm, matchstick-sized flexible rod inserted under the upper arm's skin. Implanon's active ingredient is etonogestrel, a synthetic form progesterone.

Once inserted, Implanon slowly releases etonogestrel into the bloodstream over a period of 3 years, providing contraception. The hormone works by inhibiting ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus, and thinning the lining of the uterus. Implanon is considered highly effective, with a failure rate of less than 1%.

Depot Contraception Injection

Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), commonly known as Depo-Provera, is a progestin-only contraceptive injection that provides effective birth control for approximately 3 months.

DMPA is administered through an intramuscular injection containing medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. It works by suppressing ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus, and thinning the uterus lining to prevent pregnancy.

Other Benefits of Contraception

As well as preventing pregnancy, contraceptive devices can manage various gynaecological concerns, increasing one’s quality of life.

The combined oral contraceptive pill is often associated with reduced hormonal acne, lighter and less painful periods, reduced premenstrual syndrome symptoms, and stabilised hormones. Heavy periods can also be managed through the progesterone-only pill.

Many women with heavy periods, severe menstrual pain, endometriosis, or chronic pelvic pain experience relief through Mirena usage. Implanon may also lessen period pain and improve hormonal acne, and the depot contraceptive injection often stabilises hormones and reduces period pain and heaviness.

Every woman’s body is unique and as a result, responses to contraceptive options differ. Toowoomba Obstetrics and Gynaecology can guide you in choosing methods suited to your body that reduce gynaecological concerns and prevent pregnancy.

The Pill | Contraception | Toowoomba Obstetrics and Gynaecology

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