Family planning
Family planning in Rutherford, on your terms.
Bulk billed support whether you are preventing pregnancy, planning a family or having trouble conceiving.
Plan your family, your way.
Family planning covers everything from choosing contraception to preparing for pregnancy and getting help if it is taking longer than expected. Our GPs give clear, balanced information so you can make the right choice for you.
Rutherford Doctors is a Medicare Bulk Billing Practice on Hillview Street, caring for individuals and couples across Rutherford, Aberglasslyn, Telarah and the wider Maitland area.
Talk through your plans with a GP.
How we can help.
Choose a topic to learn what is involved and when to see a GP.
Contraception
Your GP can explain how each method works and what suits you.
The implant and IUDs are among the most effective options.
Pills, the vaginal ring, injection and condoms.
Your GP can help you switch safely.
Preparing for pregnancy
A pre-pregnancy check helps you start as healthy as possible.
Folic acid at least one month before, and advice on iodine.
Check immunity to measles, rubella and chickenpox before trying.
Review medicines and manage existing conditions.
Carrier screening
A test to see if you carry genes for some inherited conditions.
Screening for cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy and fragile X is Medicare-funded.
People planning a pregnancy or in early pregnancy, and their partners.
Your GP explains results and next steps.
Fertility concerns
If it is taking longer than expected, your GP can help.
After 12 months of trying if under 35, or 6 months if 35 or over.
Blood tests, semen analysis and an ultrasound may be arranged.
Your GP can refer you to a fertility specialist.
Vasectomy
A permanent contraception option for men.
Your GP can talk through what is involved and whether it is right for you.
Your GP can refer you to a vasectomy provider.
Vasectomy should be considered permanent.
Emergency contraception
Options if you have had unprotected sex.
Available from pharmacies, up to 3 or 5 days after sex, depending on type.
The most effective emergency option within 5 days.
Your GP can help you choose a method going forward.
Something else on your mind? Our GPs can help.
Contraception options.
A guide to the main methods. Your GP will help you choose what suits you.
Implanon NXT
Contraceptive implant
A small rod under the skin of the arm.
Inserted and removed in clinic with local anaesthetic.
Mirena, Kyleena
Hormonal IUD
A small device in the uterus releasing low-dose hormone.
Often makes periods lighter.
Non-hormonal
Copper IUD
A hormone-free device in the uterus.
Can also be used as emergency contraception.
Every 12 weeks
Injection
A progestogen injection.
Fertility can take time to return after stopping.
Combined or mini pill
The pill
A daily tablet.
Your GP will check it is suitable for you.
Monthly
Vaginal ring
A flexible ring releasing hormones.
Changed monthly.
Barrier method
Condoms
Also helps protect against STIs.
Can be combined with other methods.
Permanent
Vasectomy
A minor procedure for men.
Your GP can refer you to a provider.
Effectiveness figures are approximate typical-use rates from Australian family planning guidance.
Not sure which method suits you?
Planning a pregnancy, step by step.
A simple guide to preparing for pregnancy with your GP.
Both partners
Come together
Partners are welcome at pre-pregnancy appointments, including for carrier screening.
Medicines
Check before stopping
Do not stop prescribed medicines without talking to your GP first.
See your GP sooner if
- Irregular or absent periods
- A history of endometriosis or PCOS
- Known fertility concerns or past surgery
- Been trying for 6 months and are 35 or over
Step by step
- 1Check-up
Your GP reviews your health, medicines, vaccines and cervical screening.
- 2Supplements
Start folic acid at least one month before trying, and talk about iodine.
- 3Tests and screening
Blood tests for immunity and optional carrier screening.
- 4Lifestyle
Advice on alcohol, smoking, weight and activity.
- 5Trying
Your GP explains when to come back if pregnancy is taking longer than expected.
Thinking about pregnancy? Book a pre-pregnancy check.
Fertility investigations
Your GP can arrange initial tests for both partners and refer you to a fertility specialist.
After a loss
Pregnancy loss is common and can be very hard. Your GP can support you and talk about future pregnancies.
Costs
Consultations are bulk billed for Medicare-eligible patients. Contraceptive devices are bought from a pharmacy, and some tests and procedures may attract a fee.
Book a family planning appointmentWhere are you on your journey?
Select a stage to see what your GP can help with.
Wherever you are, we can help.
Our GPs.
All of our GPs provide family planning care. Choose a GP you feel comfortable with.
No preference? Book the first available GP.
Family planning questions.
When should I see a GP if I am not getting pregnant?
After 12 months of trying if you are under 35, or after 6 months if you are 35 or over. See your GP sooner if you have known concerns.
What is carrier screening?
A test that checks whether you carry genes for some inherited conditions. Screening for cystic fibrosis, SMA and fragile X is Medicare-funded.
Can I have an IUD or implant inserted here?
Yes. Implant and IUD insertion are available. Ask for a longer appointment.
Can my partner come to the appointment?
Yes. Partners are welcome.
Is family planning bulk billed?
All Medicare-eligible consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card.
This page provides general information about family planning services at Rutherford Doctors. It is not a substitute for advice about your own health. Please book an appointment to discuss your situation. In an emergency, call 000.
