Contraception Methods From the Australian Government

Family planning and contraception is a crucial aspect of a nation's health. Not only does it help to control the population, it also fights the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, thereby reducing the chances of an epidemic. The Australian government endorses several forms of contraception for both men and women.

Australian Contraception

• The Australian Government's family planning and aid program aims to reduce maternal and child mortality. The program's guiding principles include involving communities in planning programs for family needs and increasing the choice of planning methods. However, the government states that the program's highest priority is the prevention of unwanted pregnancy so as to minimize the need for abortion. These family planning services include check ups, pap tests, abortion services and access to effective contraceptives.

Non-Hormonal Contraception

• One form of contraception that has proven effective to both reduce unwanted pregnancies and the spread of disease is non-hormonal contraception. Virtual Medical Centre has compiled a list of approved contraception of this type in Australia. The first method of non-hormonal contraception is barrier methods, which include male and female condoms as well as diaphragms. While diaphragms are mainly used to prevent pregnancy, they are not as effective as condoms in preventing disease, according to Virtual Medical Centre. Other methods the Centre lists include Intrauterine devices (IUDs), vasectomy and the withdrawal method. IUDs are "T" shaped plastic devices inserted into the uterus that prevent pregnancy. According to the Centre, IUDs are the second most common method worldwide behind the sterilization that vasectomies provide.

Australia and the Pill

• In 2010, Australia celebrated 50 years of oral contraception. According to Understanding You, a service that provides information to women on the birth control pill, the pill has given women freedom in contraception. Understanding You states that the pill is 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy when taken as directed. Some pills may even have secondary benefits including reduced bloating, skin rejuvenation and more regular periods. Understanding You suggests visiting a doctor to talk about your medical history and if you have any symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). Once a full evaluation is made, the woman and her doctor can develop a plan of contraception that may or may not include the birth control pill.