contraception
Big word. Also known as birth control. It’s how we stop pregnancy from happening during penis-in-vagina sex, and there are loads of options depending on your body, your lifestyle, and your plans.
Contraception explained
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Contraception methods explained
Expectations
vs reality
Conversation Starters
Contraception chats don’t have to be awkward. Just a couple thoughtful adults who value their body and their partners. You don’t need a script, a candlelit setting, or a 12 slide PowerPoint. You just need the confidence to say, “Hey, can we chat about contraception for a sec?” and the trust that anyone worth having sex with will appreciate that you brought it up.
Contraception chats don’t have to be awkward. Just a couple thoughtful adults who value their body and their partners. You don’t need a script, a candlelit setting, or a PowerPoint. You just need the confidence to say, “Hey, can we chat about contraception for a sec?” and the trust that anyone worth having sex with will appreciate that you brought it up.
Walk into your gyno/doctors appointment like a boss
So you're calling up to make the appointment. Say something like:
I’d like an appointment to discuss my contraception options.
This tells them you need a longer consultation, super important! During this appointment, the last thing you want to feel is rushed out the door.
Talking points when you're in the appointment
You could write these down on a piece of paper or in your phone before the appointment.
You can literally read them to your GP/GYNO. Who cares what they think - they will most likely be super impressed by your organisational skills!
- "I want to talk through contraception options. I’m not sure what’s best for my body and lifestyle"
- "What are the side effects and benefits of this [method you are considering]?
- "What’s the process for getting it?"
- "How much does it cost?"
- "How effective is it?"
"I’m on [pill/implant/IUD/injection etc], and I’ve been having [mood changes, weight gain, headaches, irregular bleeding, acne, etc.]. I want to talk about switching methods."
- "I’m interested in getting [insert name of contraception method], and I’d like to discuss if this would be suitable for me."
- "I want a hormone-free contraceptive method. What are my options?"
"I have a history of [insert health concern/condition], so I need to know which contraception is safe for me."
Your hormones explained
Transitioning off hormonal contraception
Been on the pill (or any kind of hormonal contraception) for what feels like forever and thinking about giving it the flick? Whether you’re fed up, feeling a bit off, or just want to know what your body’s like without the synthetic hormones, hi, you’re not alone. It’s a big, personal decision, and if you're feeling a bit unsure or wobbly about it, that’s totally normal.
Here's what you may encounter after stopping hormonal contraception.
Week 1
It’s completely normal to feel shocked, teary, overwhelmed or even a bit excited. All feelings are valid. You’re not broken, and this isn’t weird, it’s just new.
Biological:
Hormone levels (estrogen, progesterone, LH, FSH) begin to shift.
Synthetic hormones slowly become less and less as your natural hormones start to kick in.
Psychosocial:
You may feel a bit “off” - tired, teary, foggy, headachy, or totally fine.
Some people feel empowered and “back in control”; others may feel anxious without their usual routine.
Week 2
Biological:
- Hormonal fluctuations begin to intensify as your cycle ramps up.
- Ovarian activity may start increasing (especially in people with regular pre-contraception cycles).
- Cervical mucus may return (a sign ovulation is gearing up).
- Possible early PMS-type symptoms.
Psychosocial:
- Your mood may feel a bit unstable as your brain is adjusting to your body’s natural hormonal rhythm again.
- Confidence may rise (or wobble) as you adjust to new routines.
- Increased body awareness - tracking changes, watching for signs, Googling everything.
Relational:
- At this point, if you are in a relationship, partners may notice shifts in energy, mood, or desire. This is a really good opportunity to have a conversation about what’s happening for you and how your partner can potentially support you through this transition!
Week 3
Biological:
- Ovulation may occur for the first time post-hormonal contraception.
- Skin changes might start showing up - acne is common, especially if the pill was helping manage it.
- You may feel bloated, crampy, or experience breast tenderness.
Psychosocial:
- You may feel more emotionally “alive” for better or worse.
- Some people say their libido or motivation comes back. Others might feel like they're still in limbo.
1 month
Biological:
- Many people get their first natural period around now (but it can take up to 3 months).
- Hormonal acne may peak, then start to stabilise.
- Vaginal discharge and libido may shift with natural hormone fluctuations.
Psychosocial:
- Your spectrum of emotions may feel like a colourful rainbow compared to being on hormonal contraception. Sometimes it can feel like you are going from a black and white tv screen to colour!
- You might feel more aligned or mismatched with your partner, depending on how you navigate the changes together.
6 months
Biological:
- For most people, the menstrual cycle has stabilised.
- Skin, energy, mood, and libido often settle into your new normal.
- Underlying conditions (e.g. PCOS, endometriosis) that were masked by hormones may resurface.
Psychosocial:
- By this point you may feel “back in sync” with your body’s natural rhythm.
- Increased confidence in natural cycle tracking, fertility awareness, or symptom management.
- Greater mental clarity around what works and what doesn’t for your health and lifestyle.
The breakup kit: post hormonal birth control
So you’re coming off hormonal contraception. You don’t need a hazmat suit, just a few grounding, feel-good essentials to ride that wave to the other end. You got this!
A journal
Log your feelings, moods, and body changes. Use it as a check-in with yourself and a future reference point for any contraceptive choices down the line. Think of it as your cycle’s new BFF.
Feel goooood education
Queue up a podcast eppy or grab a book that helps you understand what’s happening without freaking you out. Bonus points if it makes you laugh while teaching you something.
Your go-to uplifting playlist
The one that makes you dance in your undies or cry in a cathartic, movie-montage way. Your hormones are doing a lot, music can help you meet the moment.
Bulk self-kindness
Be kind to yourself. Rest when you're tired. Snack when you're snacky. Feel your feels.
Where this info comes from
This page was created using guidance from trusted Australian and international health organisations, clinical guidelines, and peer-reviewed research. These sources support the medical accuracy, accessibility, and lived experience approach behind this content.
- Otten, C. (2021). The sex ed you never had. Allen & Unwin.
