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HealthInfo Canterbury

Overview of contraception & sterilisation

Ārai hapū me te kokoti uru

There are lots of methods of contraception.

The pages in this section give you information about different types of contraception to help you choose the best method for you.

If you want to start using contraception or if you think you want to change to a different type of contraception, visit your general practice, Family Planning Clinic, school clinic or 298 Youth Health for help.

Sexual health visits with your general practice team may be free. Ask your general practice team if you're eligible.

Appointments at Family Planning Clinics are free for New Zealand residents if you're under 22.

298 Youth Health offers free medical care and counselling for those aged 10 to 24.

If you have a community services card or live in a low-income area, you may be able to get free or low-cost contraception. This includes long-acting reversible contraceptives. Long-acting reversible contraceptives can give you reliable contraception for up to five years.

If you're eligible, a consultation will only cost $5. Where medically appropriate, women can get a long-acting contraceptive device fitted at no cost. Removal is also free.

The same services are available to transgender men and non-binary people with a uterus.

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Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed July 2022.

Sources

Page reference: 603497

Review key: HICAS-53138