Is it safe to get a prescription for the contraceptive pill online?

You can now get a prescription for the oral contraceptive pill online and have it sent it your door, without seeing a GP. But experts are concerned.

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The pill (combined oral contraceptive pill)

The combined oral contraceptive pill, usually called 'the pill', is a type of contraception (birth control) that can also help control your periods.

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Hormonal medicines and periods

Some forms of hormonal contraception (for example the oral contraceptive pill, hormonal IUD, and injection) may affect your menstrual cycle.

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Why contraception fails - and how to choose a method that works

New research shows that 4 in 10 women who get pregnant unintentionally are using contraception — which is why it's vital to choose the right method for you.

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Progestogen-only pill (mini pill)

The progestogen-only pill (POP) is a type of contraception (birth control) that is sometimes called the mini pill. Read about the types of POP.

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'Morning after' pill (emergency contraception pill)

The 'morning after' pill is a type of emergency contraception. It can be used within a few days of unprotected sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy.

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Acne treatments

There are many effective treatments available for acne, including creams for your skin and oral medicines. Learn about the different options.

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Lipoedema

Lipoedema is an incurable condition featuring an abnormal build up of fatty tissue usually in the legs. It causes pain and swelling. Learn to help manage it.

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Thrombosis

Thrombosis, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), is where a blood clot forms in a vein or artery. Learn about the risk factors and how to prevent it.

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Doxycycline

Doxycycline is an antibiotic medicine. Read what doxycycline is used for, how it works, its risks and other treatment options available.

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Oestrogen

Oestrogen is a female sex hormone with many roles, including controlling puberty and strengthening bones. But too much or too little can cause medical problems.

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Medicines and breastfeeding

While most medicines are safe to take while breastfeeding, some can affect your baby. Learn out more about medicines and breastfeeding here.

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Contraception options

Some types of contraception (birth control) are easier to use or more effective than others - know how to make the best choice for you.

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The truth hurts: hysterectomy doesn’t cure endometriosis

Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women, often leading to pain and infertility. Despite one celeb's hysterectomy for endo at 31, it’s not a cure for endometriosis.

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Women don't need to 'put up' with heavy periods

Heavy menstrual bleeding affects 1 in 4 Australian women, but treatment is available. There's no need to suffer in silence.

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Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is a condition that affects the uterus and can cause heavy periods. Learn more about its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

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Irregular periods

If your period stops or changes in any way, you should see your doctor.

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Varicose veins surgery

Varicose veins are a common problem and can lead to complications if left untreated. Support stockings can help to control symptoms but will not remove the varicose veins.

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Inserting an IUCD

A coil or intra-uterine contraceptive device (IUD) is a contraceptive device. An IUD can be removed by your doctor. Read about how this method of contraception works and how a IUD is inserted.

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Laparoscopic sterilisation

A laparoscopic sterilisation is a permanent method of female contraception. It involves blocking both fallopian tubes to prevent you from becoming pregnant.

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Bilateral vasectomy

A vasectomy is an operation to cut the tubes that carry sperm from your testicles. It is a permanent and effective method of male contraception.

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Managing period pain

Period pain (dysmenorrhoea) is common but might make it difficult for you to enjoy normal activities. Here are some ways to manage painful periods, and know when it’s time to see your doctor.

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Contraceptive vaginal ring

Read about the vaginal ring - a type of contraception (birth control) that works in the same way as the pill and can help control your periods.

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Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee, teas, chocolate and energy drinks. It acts on your brain and nervous system. Learn more about caffeine here.

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Cancer of the uterus

Cancer of the uterus (womb) includes endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma. Find out about the symptoms, tests and treatments for cancer of the uterus.

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Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects many females in their reproductive years. Read about PCOS and your health.

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Painful periods (dysmenorrhoea)

Period pain (dysmenorrhoea) is common, especially among young females, and the pain tends to ease as you get older. Learn more about the symptoms and treatments of painful periods.

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Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome refers to symptoms that occur around the time of your period. There are ways to help manage your premenstrual symptoms.

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Heavy periods

Your periods are heavy if you're using more tampons or pads than usual. Here's what you can do for heavy periods, starting with a doctor's visit.

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Why am I spotting between periods? Plus 9 other female health questions answered

healthdirect’s Chief Medical Officer answers how to handle the symptoms of endometriosis and bleeding between your periods, plus other questions.

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