Opportunities for Increasing Access to Effective Contraception in Australia

Abstract

Effective contraception can prevent unintended pregnancies, however there is an unmet need for effective contraception in Australia. Despite their being a range of contraceptive methods available, access to these remains equitable and uptake of the most effective methods is low. There is an opportunity to reduce the rate of unintended pregnancies in Australia by improving the uptake of effective contraception for those who desire this. Improving access will require increasing consumer health literacy about contraception, as well as the option of telehealth as a mode of service delivery, and stronger investment in contraceptive services through appropriate reimbursement for providers. There is also a need to test new models of care to increase access to and use of effective contraception in Australia, including nurse and midwifery-led models of contraceptive care and pharmacy involvement in contraceptive counseling.