How to get a prescription for the contraceptive pill

The contraceptive pill is a widely used and effective way to prevent pregnancy, as well as manage other conditions. If you're considering using it, or if you're looking for an easier way to get your regular supply, you might be wondering about the steps involved.

This guide will walk you through the options available in Australia for accessing the contraceptive pill.

Important Note: This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any health condition.

Exploring your options for getting the pill

Getting the contraceptive pill in Australia usually means getting a prescription. There are a few ways to do this, depending on your situation and where you live.

Online telehealth services

For many people, telehealth is a common first stop for getting the contraceptive pill. Telehealth is a popular way to access healthcare, and that includes getting prescriptions for the contraceptive pill. These services allow you to consult with a doctor or nurse practitioner from anywhere in Australia.

How it works:

• Fill in an online health questionnaire about your medical history and current health.
• An AHPRA-Registered Partner Doctor will review your request, consider it and determine if the prescription is right for you
• If approved and suitable, get your script delivered straight to your phone, which you can take to any pharmacy.

Telehealth can be convenient, especially for repeat prescriptions, busy schedules, or if you live in a rural area. 

Visit your local doctor (GP)

Visiting your local GP is another excellent option for getting contraceptive pills. When you visit your GP, they will:

• Ask you about your medical history, including any past illnesses, allergies, and family health conditions.
• Talk about your lifestyle and any medications you're currently taking.
• Measure your blood pressure and possibly your weight.
• Discuss the different types of contraceptive pills and which might be best for you. There are two main types: the combined pill and the progestogen-only pill (sometimes called the mini-pill).
• Explain how to take the pill, what to do if you miss a dose, and potential side effects.

Your GP will then write you a prescription, which you can take to any pharmacy to get your medication. They'll also usually advise on when you should have a review.

Consult your community pharmacy

In Australia, pharmacists are playing a growing role in making the contraceptive pill more accessible. This is a big change that can save you time and make getting your pill more convenient.

Pharmacy resupply services

Many pharmacies now offer a service where you can get a resupply of your oral contraceptive pill without needing a brand new prescription from your doctor every time. This is especially helpful if your existing prescription has run out of repeats or has expired.

To be eligible for a pharmacy resupply, you generally need to:

• Be within a certain age range (check the requirements for your State or Territory, as they can vary).
• Have been taking a low-risk type of contraceptive pill consistently for a certain period and for contraception purposes (not for other conditions like severe acne or endometriosis).
• Have had a recent review by a doctor or nurse practitioner.

During a pharmacy resupply consultation, the pharmacist will ask you about your health, check your blood pressure, and make sure the pill is still suitable for you. If everything is in order, they may provide you with a supply of your pills. They will also usually inform your GP about the resupply, with your permission.

Key facts and considerations

Understanding why and how the contraceptive pill works is important for safe and effective use.

Why a prescription is important

The contraceptive pill contains hormones that affect your body. Due to this, it's important that a healthcare professional assesses whether it's safe and suitable for you. 

They consider your medical history, any existing health conditions (like blood pressure issues or migraines), and other medications you might be taking to ensure the pill doesn't cause any risks or interact negatively with other treatments. This initial check-up and ongoing reviews are all about your safety and well-being.

The contraceptive pill:

• Helps prevent pregnancy: When taken correctly, the contraceptive pill can be highly effective at preventing pregnancy. However, it is important to remember that it is not 100% reliable.
• Does not protect against STIs: It's very important to understand that the pill does not protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you are sexually active, condoms are the only form of contraception that protects against STIs.
• Has other potential benefits: Some people find the pill helps with other issues like heavy periods, period pain, or acne. However, if you are seeking the pill for these reasons rather than primarily for contraception, you might need to see your GP.

Understanding the costs of getting a prescription for the contraceptive pill

When considering the contraceptive pill, there are usually two types of costs: the consultation fee and the cost of the medication itself.

• Consultation fees: Your doctor or pharmacist may charge a fee for the consultation. Medicare can help cover some or all of the cost for GP visits. Pharmacy consultations for resupply or prescribing may also have a fee.
• Medication costs: Many types of contraceptive pills are listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in Australia. This means the government helps pay for them, making them much more affordable. You'll pay a lower, subsidised price at the pharmacy. If your specific pill is not on the PBS, or if you don't have a Medicare card, the cost will be higher.

Next steps

Deciding to use the contraceptive pill is a personal choice, and it's important to make an informed decision that's right for your body and your lifestyle. 

Book in your consultation and speak with an AHPRA-registered Partner Doctor today.

Whether you choose to see your GP, visit a pharmacy, or use an online telehealth service, always be open and honest with your healthcare provider. They are there to help you.

FAQs

Do I always need a doctor's prescription for birth control?

For hormonal contraceptive pills, yes, you generally need a prescription, but where you get it from is changing. 

You can get it from a GP, and often from a trained pharmacist or via an online telehealth service. Other birth control methods like condoms are available over-the-counter, and the emergency contraceptive pill (also known as the morning-after pill) is also available directly from pharmacies without a prescription.

What information should I share with my healthcare provider?

It's important to be honest and thorough. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about:

• Your complete medical history, including any serious illnesses you've had or conditions that run in your family.
• All medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
• Any allergies you have.
• Your lifestyle, including whether or not you smoke.

This information helps them decide if the pill is safe and appropriate for you.

What if I forget to take my pill or run out?

If you miss a pill, check the information leaflet that comes with your specific pill pack, as instructions can vary. 

If you're still unsure, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. If you're running low on your regular pill and can't get a timely GP appointment, the pharmacy resupply service is designed to help situations like this.

Does the pill protect against STIs?

No. The contraceptive pill only helps prevent pregnancy. It does not offer any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

To protect against STIs, it's important to use condoms consistently and correctly every time you have sex. Regular STI checks are also recommended if you are sexually active.

Can pharmacists prescribe the contraceptive pill?

Typically no. However, as part of a state trial, some pharmacists in Queensland can prescribe the oral contraceptive pill. It’s available only at selected pharmacies and requires an eligibility check.

‍