The best contraception for you depends on your health, lifestyle, preferences, and whether you want a hormonal or non-hormonal option. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and choosing the right method starts with understanding what matters most to you.
Contraceptive Method Breakdown
See an overview of common contraceptive methods, helping you compare how each one works and what to expect. Use it to quickly identify which options may best fit your lifestyle and preferences.
Contraceptive Method Decision Guide
Consider the following when choosing the best contraception:
- Want long-term, low-maintenance contraception? IUDs or implant
- Prefer hormone-free? Copper IUD, condoms, diaphragm, and fertility awareness
- Want predictable periods? Combined pill or vaginal ring
- Need STI protection? External or internal condoms
- Need something emergency-only? Emergency contraceptive pill or copper IUD
- Prefer permanent contraception? Vasectomy or tubal ligation
If you’re unsure, MSI clinicians help you choose options based on your health history and preferences, ensuring you choose the method that best fits your needs.
| Method | Hormonal | Lasts For | Effectiveness* | STI Protection | Routine Required | Reversibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hormonal IUD | ✔ | 5-8 years | >99% | ✘ | None | ✔ |
| Copper IUD | ✘ | 5–10 years | >99% | ✘ | None | ✔ |
| Implant | ✔ | 3 years | >99% | ✘ | None | ✔ |
| Injection | ✔ | 12 weeks | ~94% | ✘ | 3-monthly | ✔ (delayed) |
| Combined pill | ✔ | Daily | ~93% | ✘ | Daily | ✔ |
| POP (mini pill) | ✔ | Daily | ~93% | ✘ | Daily, same time | ✔ |
| Vaginal ring | ✔ | Monthly | ~93% | ✘ | Monthly | ✔ |
| External condoms | ✘ | Single use | ~87% | ✔ | Every use | ✔ |
| Internal condoms | ✘ | Single use | ~79% | ✔ | Every use | ✔ |
| Diaphragm | ✘ | Reusable | ~83% | ✘ | Every use | ✔ |
| Fertility awareness | ✘ | Ongoing | ~76% | ✘ | Daily tracking | ✔ |
| LAM | ✘ | 6 months | ~98% (strict) | ✘ | Exclusive breastfeeding | ✔ |
| Withdrawal | ✘ | Each act | ~78% | ✘ | Every use | ✔ |
| Tubal ligation | ✘ | Permanent | >99% | ✘ | None | ✘ |
| Vasectomy | ✘ | Permanent | >99% | ✘ | None | ✔ |
| Emergency pill | ✔ | One-off | Varies | ✘ | One-off | ✔ |
Types of Contraceptive Methods
Hormonal contraception
- Hormonal IUD: T-shaped device releasing progestogen for 5-8 years, depending on the type.
- Implant: Small rod in the arm releasing progestogen for up to 3 years.
- Injection: Progestogen injection every 12 weeks.
- Combined pill: Daily contraceptive pill with oestrogen + progestogen that stops ovulation.
- Progestogen-only pill: Daily pill without oestrogen; suitable for more people.
- Vaginal ring: Flexible ring with oestrogen + progestogen inserted monthly.
- Emergency contraceptive pill: Taken after unprotected sex; not for ongoing use.
Consider the following when choosing the best contraception:
- Want long-term, low-maintenance contraception? IUDs or implant
- Prefer hormone-free? Copper IUD, condoms, diaphragm, and fertility awareness
- Want predictable periods? Combined pill or vaginal ring
- Need STI protection? External or internal condoms
- Need something emergency-only? Emergency contraceptive pill or copper IUD
- Prefer permanent contraception? Vasectomy or tubal ligation
If you’re unsure, MSI clinicians help you choose options based on your health history and preferences, ensuring you choose the method that best fits your needs.
Non-hormonal contraception
- Copper IUD: Hormone-free device lasting 5–10 years.
- External condoms: Barrier worn on the penis; protects against STIs.
- Internal condoms: Barrier worn inside the vagina; also provides STI protection.
- Diaphragm: Reusable silicone dome placed over the cervix before sex.
- Fertility awareness methods: Tracking temperature, cervical mucus or cycle patterns.
- Lactational amenorrhoea method (LAM): A temporary method for breastfeeding parents who meet strict criteria.
- Withdrawal: Penis removed before ejaculation; less reliable.
- Sterilisation: Permanent contraception includes vasectomy or tubal ligation.
MSI Australia can help you choose a safe, suitable contraceptive method based on your health, preferences and lifestyle. Our clinicians offer confidential, non-judgemental support so you can make the decision that feels right for you.
Reviewed by Anna Jabour, Head of Communication at MSI Australia.
