Stay Safe: Your Guide to Contraception This Party Season

More than half of Australians say they never use contraception during sex, and only around 4 in 10 have ever had an STI test – despite rising rates of sexually transmissible infections and ongoing concerns about unintended pregnancy.

When you add in a long, hot Aussie summer, Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve, festivals, schoolies, and weekends away, it’s easy to see how “I’ll sort out my contraception later” turns into “How did this happen?”

This article is for you if:

• You’ve let your birth control pill script quietly expire.
• You’re about to hit party season single and sexually active.
• You’re in a relationship but not quite ready for a baby.
• You want to enjoy sex and protect your sexual health without last‑minute panics.

We’ll walk through practical, Australian‑specific information on:

• Your contraception options (from the pill to implants and IUDs).
• How to use the birth control pill smartly during a chaotic social calendar.
• How contraception online and online prescriptions work in Australia.
• Emergency contraception (the “morning after pill”) and when to consider it.
• Safe sex tips that protect you from STIs, not just pregnancy.
• How we at NextClinic can help you keep your contraception on track without sitting in a summer GP waiting room.

By the end, you’ll have a clear plan to enjoy party season and stay in control of your sexual health.

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Why party season is a perfect storm for unplanned sex (and unplanned consequences)

December and January in Australia are basically one long social event: office parties, barbecues, beach days, road trips, music festivals, and family gatherings. A few things tend to happen at this time of year:

• More alcohol and late nights – which can mean less careful decision‑making.
• More spontaneous hookups – sometimes with people you’ve just met.
• Travel and disrupted routines – making it easier to forget your pill or leave condoms at home.
• Closed or fully booked GP clinics – exactly when you suddenly remember… you’re out of scripts.

At the same time, Australia is seeing a worrying rise in STIs. Over the past decade, syphilis and gonorrhoea diagnoses have roughly doubled, and chlamydia remains the most commonly diagnosed STI – particularly in people in their 20s.

Government campaigns now estimate that around 1 in 6 Australians will get an STI in their lifetime, with many infections showing no symptoms – which is why regular testing and protection matter so much.

On the pregnancy side, Australian research suggests 1 in 4 women experience an unintended pregnancy, and a third of those end in abortion.

The takeaway?

Party season is fun, but it’s also exactly when a bit of planning around contraception and safe sex pays off.

Contraception 101: pregnancy prevention vs STI protection

Before we dive into specific methods and how to get contraception online, it helps to understand the basic categories.

Broadly, contraception falls into these groups:

1. Barrier methods
   • Male condoms
   • Internal (female) condoms
   • Diaphragms

These stop sperm from reaching the egg. Condoms are the only common contraception that also help protect against STIs.

1. Hormonal methods
   • Combined oral contraceptive pill (birth control pill with oestrogen + progestogen)
   • Progestogen‑only pill (mini‑pill)
   • Vaginal ring
   • Contraceptive injection (Depo-Provera)
   • Contraceptive implant (e.g. Implanon)
   • Hormonal IUD (e.g. Mirena, Kyleena)

These mainly prevent ovulation (releasing an egg) and change cervical mucus and the lining of the uterus to reduce pregnancy risk.

1. Non‑hormonal long‑acting methods
   • Copper IUD – no hormones, sits inside the uterus and is highly effective for 5–10 years.
2. Other methods
   • Fertility awareness / “natural” methods
   • Withdrawal (“pulling out”)
   • Sterilisation (vasectomy, tubal ligation)

Government‑funded resources like Healthdirect and family planning organisations consistently emphasise that no method is 100% effective, but long‑acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like implants and IUDs are among the most reliable.

However, none of these hormonal or long‑acting methods protect you from STIs – which is why combining something like the pill with condoms (“dual protection”) is such a smart choice in party season.

Quick tour of contraception in Australia

For a deeper dive into every method, we’ve broken this down in detail on our blog in “Birth Control Options and How to Get Them in Australia” and “Implants, IUDs, and Shots: Long-Term Birth Control Online” (worth a read if you’re deciding between options).

Here’s a quick summary to get oriented:

Barrier methods

• Male condoms

Widely available, cheap, hormone‑free, and protect against both pregnancy and STIs. They’re less effective than some other methods if used inconsistently or incorrectly, but they’re essential for safe sex with new or casual partners.

• Internal condoms & diaphragms

Less commonly used, can be a good alternative if male condoms don’t work for you. Still require planning and good technique.

Short‑acting hormonal contraception

• Combined oral contraceptive pill (the birth control pill)

Taken daily. Very effective when used correctly and consistently, but typical‑use effectiveness drops when pills are missed or taken late. Many brands are PBS‑subsidised; some newer ones are becoming cheaper as the government expands subsidies.

• Progestogen‑only pill (mini‑pill)

Also taken daily, often suitable for people who can’t take oestrogen. Timing is more strict with some mini‑pills.

• Vaginal ring (e.g. NuvaRing)

A soft ring placed in the vagina for three weeks, then removed for a ring‑free week. Works in a similar way to the combined pill. Recent PBS changes mean it’s now significantly cheaper for many Australians.

Long‑acting reversible contraception (LARCs)

• Contraceptive implant

A tiny rod inserted under the skin of your upper arm, lasting up to 3 years.

• Hormonal IUD

A small device placed in the uterus, usually effective for 5–7+ years depending on the brand.

• Copper IUD

Hormone‑free, effective for 5–10 years and also the most effective form of emergency contraception.

• Contraceptive injection

A progestogen shot every 12 weeks.

Australian research shows LARC use is still relatively low – around 11% – even though these methods are among the most effective ways to prevent pregnancy.

If you struggle to remember pills or know this party season is going to be hectic, LARCs are worth seriously considering with your doctor or via a telehealth consultation and referral.

The birth control pill in party season: how to stay on top of it

The birth control pill is still one of Australia’s most popular contraceptives – convenient, familiar, and easy to start with a GP or telehealth consult.

But summer can make good pill habits fall apart. Here’s how to keep it working for you.

1. Sort your scripts before the silly season

If you’re on the pill:

• Check how many packets you have left.
• Look at the expiry on your script.
• If you’re down to your last pack or your script has lapsed, organise a repeat prescription now, not on Christmas Eve.

If you can’t get into your usual GP, contraception online is a practical alternative. With services like ours at NextClinic, you can request an online prescription for your pill, speak to an Australian‑registered doctor by phone, and receive an eScript via SMS to use at any pharmacy nationwide.

We cover most common brands (combined and mini‑pills), and as long as it’s clinically appropriate, a quick telehealth chat is often all that’s needed for a repeat.

2. Set yourself a “non‑negotiable” reminder

Party season = late nights, sleeping in, overnight stays, travel. All of these are enemy number one for pill routines.

Practical ideas:

• Set a recurring alarm on your phone at a time you’re usually awake.
• Keep your pill in your bag rather than your bathroom cabinet.
• Pair it with a daily habit – e.g. brushing teeth at night or your morning coffee.

Missing the occasional pill happens. But repeatedly missing or taking pills late increases your risk of pregnancy – especially with certain mini‑pills that need to be taken at almost the same time every day.

If you do miss tablets:

• One pill late or missed by less than 24 hours:

Usually, you just take it as soon as you remember and continue as normal, but always check the instructions specific to your pill or ask a pharmacist.

• More than one pill missed, or starting a pack late:

This is where it gets more complicated. The safest approach is:

• Read the “missed pill” section in your packet.
• Use condoms for at least the next 7 days (for many combined pills).
• Consider emergency contraception if you’ve had unprotected sex in the risky window.

When in doubt, speak to a pharmacist, call Healthdirect, or book a quick telehealth consult – guessing is not your friend here.

3. Be aware of things that can reduce pill effectiveness

Some situations can make your pill less reliable:

• Severe vomiting or diarrhoea shortly after taking it.
• Certain medications (especially some epilepsy drugs, HIV medicines, or long‑term antibiotics that affect liver enzymes).
• Missing multiple pills in a row.

If you’ve been sick after a big night or you’re taking any new medication, check the consumer leaflet or ask a doctor/pharmacist whether you need extra protection or emergency contraception.

LARCs: set‑and‑forget protection for a long, hot summer

If you know you’re likely to forget pills during a busy season – or you simply want very low‑maintenance contraception – LARCs can be a game changer.

Why LARCs shine in party season

• No daily action required. Once an implant or IUD is in place, you’re protected for years (or months in the case of the injection).
• Very low failure rates. Real‑world effectiveness is above 99% when in situ and on schedule – no “oops, I forgot” to factor in.
• Good for travel. You don’t have to worry about time zones, pill timing, or lost packets.

The catch is that implants and IUDs need in‑person insertion by a trained provider. However, you can still start the process via telehealth:

• At NextClinic, we can discuss options, provide an online prescription for the device where appropriate, and help you organise a referral or plan to have it inserted at a local clinic.

Government moves to increase training and rebates for LARC insertion mean access and affordability are gradually improving, especially for devices like the implant and hormonal IUD.

If you’ve been on the fence, party season is actually a great time to switch – you set it up once, then get on with your life.

What does “contraception online” really mean?

“Contraception online” and “online prescription” can sound a bit sketchy if you’re used to traditional GP visits. In Australia, when it’s done properly, it’s simply telehealth – the same medical care, just delivered via phone or video.

When you request contraception online through a reputable Australian service:

1. You fill out a secure questionnaire with your medical history and what you’re asking for (e.g. “repeat script for my usual combined birth control pill”).
2. An AHPRA‑registered doctor reviews your information and calls you to clarify details, check for risks, and answer questions.
3. If it’s clinically appropriate, they issue an electronic prescription (eScript).
4. You receive the eScript token by SMS, then show it at any pharmacy to collect your medication.

At NextClinic, this is how our contraception services work – quick, confidential, and designed for everyday situations like script renewals or straightforward starts, as long as it’s safe to do so. Our doctors are online from early morning until late at night, which is handy when you suddenly realise at 10 pm that you’re out of pills.

If you’d like to understand the safety side in detail, we’ve unpacked it in “Is Online Birth Control Safe in Australia?” on our blog, including what to look for in a trustworthy provider (AHPRA‑registered doctors, proper assessments, secure tech, transparent pricing).

Emergency contraception: the “just in case” backup

Even with the best planning, things happen:

• A condom breaks or slips.
• You miss more pills than you meant to.
• You have unprotected sex when you didn’t intend to.
• You experience sexual assault.

That’s where emergency contraception (EC) comes in. In Australia, you have two main options:

1. Emergency contraceptive pills (“morning after pill”)
   • Two main types:
     • Levonorgestrel (LNG) pills – best taken within 72 hours (3 days), may still have some effect up to 4 days.
     • Ulipristal acetate (UPA) pills – can be taken up to 5 days (120 hours) and are generally more effective later in that window.
   • Available without a prescription from pharmacies in Australia.
   • Work by delaying or preventing ovulation (they do not cause abortion and won’t harm an existing pregnancy).
   • Do not protect against STIs and aren’t meant for regular contraception.
2. Copper IUD as emergency contraception
   • The most effective form of EC – over 99% effective if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex.
   • Also provides long‑term contraception for 5–10 years.
   • Needs insertion by a trained doctor or nurse at a clinic or family planning service.

If you think you might need EC:

• Act as soon as possible – every hour counts for effectiveness.
• Go to a pharmacy, call your GP, or book a telehealth consultation if you’re unsure which pill is right for you (e.g. due to weight, medications, breastfeeding, or timing).
• If you’re interested in the copper IUD option, ask your GP, sexual health clinic, or family planning service about urgent insertion.

We also offer telehealth support at NextClinic if you’re unsure what to do after unprotected sex or need an urgent online prescription in certain situations – but remember, many EC pills can be bought over the counter without any script at all.

Safe sex: not just “no pregnancy”

Contraception is only half the story. Safe sex is about protecting against both pregnancy and STIs, while making sure everything that happens is consensual and respectful.

Australia is seeing:

• A doubling of gonorrhoea and significant increases in chlamydia and syphilis over the past decade.
• Thousands of syphilis diagnoses per year, including concerning rises among women and First Nations communities.

Many infections cause no symptoms, which is why government campaigns like “Beforeplay” are urging people to test regularly even if they feel fine.

Practical safe sex tips for party season

1. Use condoms every time with new or casual partners
   • Condoms (used with water‑based lube) reduce the risk of STIs and pregnancy.
   • Keep a few in your wallet, bag, or car – and don’t store them somewhere hot like a glove box long‑term.
   • If you’re on the pill, keep using condoms unless you’re in a mutually monogamous relationship and you’ve both had recent STI checks.
2. Think “dual protection”
   • Ideal combo: a reliable pregnancy prevention method (pill, implant, IUD) plus condoms for STI protection.
   • Even in long‑term relationships, STIs can be present from earlier life, so consider at least a one‑off screening if you’ve never tested.
3. Get tested regularly
   • The Department of Health recommends regular STI testing for anyone who’s sexually active, especially if you change partners or have unprotected sex.
   • Many tests are quick and simple – often just urine or self‑collected swabs.
   • You can test via:
     • Your GP
     • Sexual health or family planning clinics
     • Some community clinics or, increasingly, self‑testing kits (though results should still be confirmed by a clinician).
4. Consent is non‑negotiable
   • Safe sex isn’t just about condoms; it’s also about feeling comfortable, respected, and free to say no.
   • Sex without clear, enthusiastic consent is sexual assault – even if you’re dating, in a relationship, or have had sex before.

If you feel unsafe, pressured, or have experienced sexual violence, 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) is a national 24/7 counselling and support service. You can call, text, or chat online; if you’re in immediate danger, call 000.

A party‑season contraception checklist you can actually use

Here’s a simple, realistic checklist you can run through this week:

1. Check your current contraception
   • Are you happy with your method?
   • Is your pill script or device due for renewal soon?
2. Top up your supplies
   • Pick up enough pill packets to get you through the summer.
   • Buy a fresh box of condoms (check expiry dates!).
3. Know where you’d get emergency contraception
   • Identify a nearby late‑night or 24‑hour pharmacy.
   • Familiarise yourself with the difference between LNG and UPA pills.
4. Plan for travel
   • Pack your contraception in your carry‑on.
   • Set phone reminders that still work across time zones.
   • If you’re going remote, consider organising an extra script or longer‑term method ahead of time.
5. Talk to your partner(s)
   • Discuss contraception and STI testing before the moment.
   • Agree on condom use – and stick to it.
   • Be honest about your expectations, boundaries, and any sexual health concerns.

If you realise you’ve left things a bit late, that’s where online contraception can save the day. With NextClinic you can:

• Request a birth control pill online prescription from home.
• Speak to a doctor the same day, often within an hour.
• Have an eScript sent straight to your mobile and filled at any pharmacy across Australia.

How to choose a safe online prescription service

If you’re going to sort contraception online, it’s worth making sure you’re using a reputable Australian provider. From both our own practice and broader guidance, here’s what to look for:

• AHPRA‑registered doctors

The service should clearly state that all prescribing doctors are registered in Australia.

• Proper medical assessment

You should be asked about your health history, medications, migraines, smoking status, blood pressure, and any risk factors – especially for combined pills, which aren’t suitable for everyone.

• Clear pricing

You should know what you’re paying for (e.g. telehealth consult fee) and understand that your medication is paid for separately at the pharmacy.

• Secure, Australian‑hosted systems

Look for secure (encrypted) sites and clear privacy policies that align with Australian law.

We walk through these points in more detail in our blog post “Is Online Birth Control Safe in Australia?” – worth a read if you’re comparing providers or feeling cautious (which is sensible when it comes to your health).

When to seek urgent medical help

While most contraception and sexual health issues can be handled via GP or telehealth, don’t wait if you experience:

• Severe lower abdominal pain, fever, and unusual discharge – especially after unprotected sex (possible pelvic infection).
• Heavy bleeding, severe pain, or faintness after a positive pregnancy test or missed period.
• Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction to medication (difficulty breathing, swelling, hives).
• Signs of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism if you’re on the combined pill (sudden leg swelling or pain, chest pain, shortness of breath).

In these situations, call 000 or go straight to your nearest emergency department.

If you’re not sure how serious something is, you can:

• Call Healthdirect (24/7 nurse advice).
• Book a telehealth consultation with us at NextClinic for guidance and, if appropriate, a referral or script.

Bringing it all together: your party‑season sexual health plan

Let’s quickly recap the key points:

• Unprotected sex is more common than you might think – more than half of Australians report never using contraception during sex, and STIs are on the rise.
• Contraception ≠ STI protection. Hormonal methods like the birth control pill, implants, injections, and IUDs are excellent for preventing pregnancy but don’t protect against infections. Condoms are still essential for safe sex.
• Online contraception and online prescriptions are legit in Australia when provided by AHPRA‑registered doctors and proper telehealth platforms. They’re especially useful for script renewals and straightforward cases.
• Emergency contraception is there as a backup, not a main method – but knowing where to get it and how it works can save you a lot of anxiety.
• Regular STI testing and consent‑based, respectful sex are non‑negotiable parts of good sexual health.

Now we’d love to leave you with a small challenge.

*This week, choose one action from this list and actually do it:*

• Book a contraceptive review (in person or via telehealth) so you’re covered all summer.
• Organise a repeat online prescription for your birth control pill before your current packet runs out.
• Grab a fresh box of condoms and keep a few in your bag or wallet.
• Schedule an STI test if you haven’t had one in the last year (or ever).
• Have an honest conversation with your partner about contraception and safe sex.

Pick one, make it happen, and then come back and let us know in the comments:

• Which strategy did you choose?
• How did it go?
• What would you like more guidance on for your sexual health and contraception?

Party season should be memorable for the right reasons. With a little planning – and the option to sort contraception online when you need to – you can enjoy yourself, stay safe, and protect your sexual health all summer long.

References

• New Body+Soul 2025 Sex Census data says that more than half of Aussies never use contraception during sex
• Alarming surge in STI rates revealed in new Australian health data
• ‘Beforeplay’ Campaign Launches to Promote STI Awareness and Testing | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
• New Monash study represents major steps forward to reduce Australia’s unintended pregnancies | The National Tribune
• Contraception options - types, finding the best birth control for you | healthdirect
• Birth Control Options and How to Get Them in Australia | NextClinic
• The pill's about to get cheaper for some. What are your new options?
• Cheaper contraceptives for women
• Online Birth Control Prescription Australia | NextClinic
• Contraception - emergency contraception | Better Health Channel
• Implants, IUDs, and Shots: Long-Term Birth Control Online | NextClinic
• Online Doctors: Telehealth Consultations at NextClinic
• Is Online Birth Control Safe in Australia? | NextClinic
• Morning After Pill Online | Express Script in Minutes
• Safe sex | healthdirect
• Testing for sexually transmissible infections | STI campaign – Beforeplay | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
• Australians can now buy STI self-test kits

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