TAGLINE HERE

Family Planning & Vasectomy

What is Family Planning?

Family planning refers to the practice of controlling the number and timing of children in a family. It includes a range of methods, services, and educational resources that help individuals and couples make informed choices about reproduction and contraception. Family planning services are widely accessible through general practitioners, sexual health clinics, and family planning organisations.


Who Needs Family Planning?

Family planning is for anyone of reproductive age, including:

  • Young adults: Seeking to delay starting a family.
  • Couples: Wanting to space or limit the number of children.
  • Individuals with medical conditions: Needing advice on safe conception or pregnancy prevention.
  • People experiencing unplanned pregnancies: Needing support, information, or counselling.
  • Individuals with fertility concerns: Who require investigations or treatment to conceive.


Both men and women benefit from family planning, and it often involves shared decision-making within a relationship.


Benefits of Family Planning

There are many benefits to family planning, including the following:

  • Reducing the risk of unintended pregnancies: Family planning methods, such as hormonal contraceptives and barrier methods, can prevent unintended pregnancies.
  • Improving maternal and child health: Family planning can help women plan their pregnancies, leading to better prenatal care, healthier pregnancies, and better birth outcomes.
  • Empowering women: Family planning allows women to take control of their reproductive health and make informed decisions about their bodies and lives.
  • Reducing the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Condoms are an effective method of family planning that can also reduce the risk of STIs.


Types of Family Planning

Many types of family planning methods are available, and individuals should choose the method that best suits their needs and preferences.

  • Hormonal methods: Hormonal methods of family planning include birth control pills, patches, injections, and vaginal rings. These methods work by preventing ovulation, thinning the uterus lining, and thickening cervical mucus. To start using hormonal contraceptives, you must schedule an appointment with your doctor, who will discuss your medical history, assess your eligibility for hormonal methods, and prescribe the appropriate method. You will need to take or use the method as directed, usually on a daily or weekly basis, depending on the type of method.
  • Barrier methods: Barrier methods of family planning include condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps. These methods work by preventing sperm from reaching the egg. To use a barrier method, you will need to purchase the method from a pharmacy or other retailer and follow the instructions for use. For example, condoms should be used every time you have sex, while diaphragms and cervical caps must be inserted into the vagina before sex and left in place for several hours after sex.
  • Intrauterine devices (IUDs): IUDs are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus. They can either be hormonal or non-hormonal and can provide long-term contraception. To get an IUD, you must schedule an appointment with your doctor, who will insert the device into your uterus during a quick office procedure. IUDs can remain in place for several years, depending on the type of device.
  • Sterilisation: Sterilisation is a permanent form of contraception that involves surgical procedures, such as tubal ligation for women or vasectomy for men. To get sterilised, you must schedule a surgical procedure with your doctor, during which the appropriate procedure will be performed to prevent future pregnancies.


It is essential to follow the instructions for using your chosen family planning method carefully to ensure that it effectively prevents unintended pregnancies. You should ask your doctor for more information and guidance if you have any questions or concerns about the procedure.


Contraceptive Implant

What is Implanon?

Implanon is the brand name for the contraceptive implant containing the hormone Etonogestrel, a hormone similar to the hormone progesterone, which is naturally produced by the female body.


This form of contraceptive is highly effective and lasts up to three years. It is an ideal method for young women leading busy lifestyles requiring safe and effective contraception.


How Effective is the Implanon Contraceptive?

Implanon is at least 99.7% effective.


This means that if 1,000 women use Implanon for a year, it is possible that three women could become pregnant.


How Does Implanon Work?

The Implanon implant slowly releases progestogen into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy for up to three years. The implant works by:

  • Preventing ovulation (egg release from the ovary),
  • Thickening the mucus of the cervix so that sperm cannot enter the uterus (womb), and
  • Changing the lining of the uterus, thereby making it unsuitable for pregnancy.


Some medications can reduce the effectiveness of Implanon. It is important to inform doctors that you have an Implanon when another medication is prescribed.


About the Implanon Procedure

The Implanon insertion procedure is quick and simple.


Using a small, flexible rod, a contraceptive implant is inserted under the skin of the upper arm. During the procedure, your arm is under a local anaesthetic.


Alternatives to Implanon Contraceptive

Mirena IUS

This intrauterine device is a highly effective form of contraception with minimal hormonal side effects. It lasts up to five years and, like Implanon, has the advantage of being a 'set and forget' method of contraception.


Intrauterine Contraceptive Device

We have practitioners who are experienced in both Implanon and Mirena insertions. Please ask reception for details.


Mirena Coil Insertion

What is Mirena Coil Insertion?

Mirena is an intrauterine device (IUD) inserted into the uterus as birth control. Mirena is a small, T-shaped plastic device containing the hormone levonorgestrel.


Who is Suitable for Mirena Coil Insertion?

Mirena IUD is a suitable birth control option for most women, including those who have given birth or have not given birth. It is generally considered safe for women of all ages. However, it may not be appropriate for women with certain medical conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease or certain cancers. Women with a history of ectopic pregnancy, heavy periods or adenomyosis, and those with a history of pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis may benefit from Mirena.


Benefits of Mirena Coil Insertion

  • Long-acting and highly effective, Mirena can remain in place for up to 5 years, providing birth control without needing daily attention.
  • Mirena releases a small amount of the hormone levonorgestrel, which can help to reduce heavy or painful periods and may also help to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.
  • It can be easily removed anytime, and fertility returns quickly after removal.


Mirena Insertion Procedure

A healthcare provider inserts Mirena into the uterus during an office visit. The insertion process takes only a few minutes and is usually done during a routine pelvic exam. Your doctor will clean the cervix and insert the Mirena IUD through the vagina and into the uterus using a small applicator. The Mirena IUD is then released, and the string hanging down from the bottom of the IUD is trimmed to a comfortable length for the person.


After the insertion, the person may experience cramping or discomfort for a short period. Some people may also experience light bleeding or spotting for the first few days after insertion.


Mirena Coil Insertion Effectiveness

Mirena IUD is a highly effective form of birth control. According to the manufacturers, less than 1% of women will become pregnant using the Mirena IUD.


Mirena Coil Insertion Risks

As with any medical procedure, there is a small risk of complications associated with Mirena IUD insertion, such as infection, perforation of the uterus, or expulsion of the IUD. Some people may experience side effects such as irregular or heavy bleeding, headaches, nausea, or acne.


Mirena IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and it's essential to use condoms to reduce the risk of STIs.


Family Planning Process

Starting family planning involves several steps to ensure that you make informed decisions about your reproductive health. Here are some tips to help you get started:

  • Schedule an appointment with your doctor: Your doctor can help you choose a family planning method that is right for you based on your health history, lifestyle, and preferences. They can also provide information about the benefits and potential side effects of different methods.
  • Discuss your options: Talk to your doctor about the different family planning methods available, including hormonal methods, barrier methods, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and sterilisation. Consider the pros and cons of each method and choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.
  • Consider your timing: If you are not ready to have children, it is essential to choose a family planning method that is effective in preventing unintended pregnancies. Some methods, such as hormonal contraceptives, require daily use, while others, such as IUDs, can provide long-term contraception.
  • Use protection: If you are sexually active and not ready to have children, it is essential to use protection every time you have sex. Condoms are an effective method of family planning that can also help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
  • Follow up with your doctor: It is important to follow up with your doctor regularly to ensure that your family planning method works effectively and to discuss any concerns or questions.


Family planning can be a significant step in taking control of your reproductive health. By working with your doctor and considering your options carefully, you can choose a family planning method that is right for you and enjoy the benefits of family planning, including improved maternal and child health, reduced risk of unintended pregnancies, and empowering yourself to make informed decisions about your body and your life.


Vasectomy

What Is a Vasectomy?

Vasectomy is a simple, safe, and permanent method of male contraception. It is a minor surgical procedure that cuts or seals the tubes (vas deferens) that carry sperm from the testicles to the semen. After a successful vasectomy, sperm is no longer present in the ejaculate, preventing fertilisation during intercourse.


Who is Suitable for a Vasectomy?

Vasectomy is suitable for men who:

  • Are certain they do not want to father children in the future
  • Want a long-term or permanent solution to contraception
  • Understand that the procedure is difficult to reverse
  • Have discussed the decision with their partner (if applicable)


Benefits of Vasectomy

A vasectomy is a highly effective, low-risk, and permanent method of contraception. For many men and couples, it offers peace of mind and long-term convenience. Below are the key benefits:

  • Highly Effective: Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy after the sperm-clearance phase, making it one of the most reliable birth control methods available.
  • Permanent Solution: Once confirmed successful through follow-up testing, no further contraceptive measures are needed. It eliminates the need for ongoing contraception like pills, condoms, or devices.
  • Minimally Invasive Procedure: The procedure is quick (usually under 30 minutes), done under local anaesthetic, and requires no hospital stay.
  • Fast Recovery: Most men return to work and regular activities within a few days. The discomfort is typically mild and short-lived.
  • No Impact on Sexual Function: Vasectomy does not affect sexual drive, testosterone levels, erections, or ejaculation. Sexual performance and pleasure remain unchanged.
  • Cost-Effective Over Time: Compared to the ongoing cost of contraceptives over the years, a vasectomy is a one-time expense that Medicare may partially cover.
  • No Impact on Hormones: Unlike some female contraceptives, vasectomy has no impact on hormone levels or mood.
  • Reduces Unintended Pregnancy Stress: Couples can enjoy intimacy without the constant concern of accidental pregnancy or the need for last-minute contraception.


What Happens During a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is typically performed in a medical clinic and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

  • Preparation: The scrotum is cleaned, and a local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area.
  • Accessing the Vas Deferens: A small incision or puncture is made in the scrotum to reach the vas deferens on each side.
  • Blocking the Tubes: Each vas deferens is then cut and either tied, sealed with heat (cauterised), or clipped to ensure it is completely blocked.
  • Closure: The small incision is usually closed with a stitch or may be left to heal naturally if no-scalpel techniques are used.


Patients remain awake but feel no pain. Most men find the experience straightforward and manageable.


What to Expect After a Vasectomy?

Immediately after the procedure, it's normal to experience:

  • Mild discomfort or aching in the scrotum
  • Minor swelling or bruising
  • A small amount of bleeding or discharge


These symptoms usually resolve within a few days. Pain is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and supportive underwear.


Vasectomy Recovery and Aftercare

  • First 24–48 hours: Rest is essential. Apply ice packs intermittently and avoid prolonged periods of standing.
  • Day 2 to 7: Light activities may resume. Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and sexual activity during this time.
  • Day 7 onwards: Most men return to normal routines, including work and light exercise.


Wear supportive underwear and follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions. If stitches were used, they may dissolve on their own or be removed during a follow-up.


Vasectomy Risks and Complications 

Vasectomy is a low-risk procedure, but like any minor surgery, there can be potential complications:

  • Short-term:
  • Bruising, swelling, or mild pain
  • Infection at the incision site
  • Bleeding inside the scrotum (hematoma)
  • Temporary inflammation of the vas deferens (epididymitis)
  • Long-term (rare):
  • Chronic testicular pain
  • Sperm granuloma (a small lump caused by sperm leakage)
  • Regrowth of the vas deferens leading to failed sterilisation (very rare)


Most issues are minor and can be resolved with conservative treatment.


Vasectomy Follow-up and Semen Testing

Vasectomy is not immediately effective. After the procedure, sperm may still be present in the semen for several weeks.

  • A follow-up semen test is required 8–12 weeks after the procedure to confirm there is no sperm.
  • Until the semen test confirms azoospermia (no sperm present), continue using another form of contraception.


You may need two tests, depending on your doctor’s protocol, to confirm sterility.


Is Vasectomy Reversible?

Although reversals are sometimes possible through specialised surgery, they are not always successful. Men should approach vasectomy as a permanent decision.


When Does a Vasectomy Start Working?

A vasectomy is not immediately effective. Sperm may still be present in the semen for a few months. A follow-up semen test (usually at 8–12 weeks) confirms whether sperm are completely absent. Until then, alternative contraception is necessary.


How Effective Is a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is one of the most effective forms of contraception, with a success rate greater than 99%. However, it is only considered fully effective after semen testing confirms zero sperm.


Failure is rare but can occur if the tubes spontaneously rejoin (recanalisation), which is extremely uncommon.


Vasectomy vs Other Contraception Methods

Compared to other methods:

  • More effective and permanent than condoms or hormonal contraception.
  • Does not involve hormones or daily compliance.
  • Less invasive and lower risk than female sterilisation (tubal ligation).
  • No impact on spontaneity or intimacy.


It is ideal for long-term contraception when future fertility is not desired.