Reproductive Health

Male Contraception

Vasectomies

A vasectomy is a permanent contraceptive procedure that is greater than 99% effective. Unexpected pregnancy (vasectomy failure) occurring after the laboratory test performed at 4-6 months post vasectomy occurs in around 1 in 2000 cases.

Vasectomy procedures at Whitsunday Doctors Service are performed by Dr Paul Squires. He has performed 150 over the last 10 years at the practice.

The vasectomy procedure involves performing a small single incision (1-2 cms) in the midline of 

the scrotum to identify the tubes (vas deferens) that transport sperm to where it is subsequently mixed with ejaculate fluid (semen). These vessels are ‘snipped’ by tying and removing a small segment of the tube (vas deferens) on each side. Subsequently, no further sperm can be delivered with the semen, resulting in a gradual dilution of semen until no sperm remains.

There is no effect on sexuality, but the person having the procedure is rendered sterile.

A pre-procedure visit is required in which assessment and explanation of the procedure is performed. The procedure is performed in the practice within normal business hours. The vasectomy is usually performed under twilight anaesthetic (sedation) so the patient is mainly asleep or unaware during the procedure and is usually unable to recall any of the procedure.

Female Contraception

At Whitsunday Doctors Service, we offer short and long term contraception options. We can discuss with you which option is best suited for your current situation and lifestyle.

ORAL CONTRACEPTION

Whitsunday Doctors Service can prescribe a range of combination oral contraceptives and minipills. A face-to-face appointment is required with one of our doctors to identify the best contraceptive for you, dependent on your personal circumstances.

DEPO PROVERA SHOT

Depo provera is an injection of medroxyprogestrone 4 cetate every 3 months

 

IMPLANON

The Implanon is a thin plastic rod containing hormones which is inserted underneath the skin of the upper arm under local for contraceptive purposes. The devise in inserted under local anaesthetic and has a maximum insertion duration of 3 years.

 

INTRAUTERINE DEVICE (IUD)

An Intrauterine Device or IUD is a small T-Shaped device which is implanted in the uterus to prevent unwanted pregnancy. There are two types of IUDs used within Australia – Hormonal IUDs (Mirena and Kyleena) and Copper IUDs.

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Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTOP)

 

A medical termination of pregnancy or MTOP is a non-surgical option for abortion for up to 9 weeks gestation. This service can be provided via a face-to-face appointment or telehealth appointment. The medical termination involves two types of tablets. The first tablet is Mifepristone which is an anti-hormone that blocks the effect of progesterone, a hormone that is needed to continue pregnancy. The second tablet is Misoprostol, which is taken 24-48 hours after the first tablet. Misoprostol causes contractions of the uterus and relaxes the cervix to help terminate the pregnancy.

Is medical termination right for you?

Please contact our surgery to speak with our nurse. We will determine if you are suitable and you may require blood tests and an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy is less than nine weeks and that you live within 2 hours of a hospital

You will then have an appointment with a GP who specialises in medical terminations and discuss if this method is appropriate for your situation. The cost is $400 for the consult and approximately $40 for the medications. A Medicare rebate is available for Medicare Card Holders.

When medical termination might not be a good option for you:

  • If you wish to continue pregnancy
  • If your pregnancy is over 63 days or 9 weeks
  • If you have a known or suspected ectopic pregnancy
  • If you have a known or suspected bleeding disorder
  • If you are on blood thinning medication
  • If you take regular steroid medication
  • If your adrenal glands do not work well
  • If you have an IUD
  • If you have severe anaemia

Plan For Your Visit

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Medicare Card

 

Recent Lab Results

Bring any previous results that the Doctor has asked for that will be beneficial to your next visit

Questions

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Airlie Beach Clinic

Opening Hours

Mon – Fri: 08AM – 05PM

Address

257 Shute Harbour Rd
Airlie Beach, Qld 4802

Phone

07 4967 7700

Fax

07 4967 7713

Email 

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Proserpine Clinic

Opening Hours

Mon – Fri: 08AM – 05PM

Address

35 Chapman Street
Proserpine, Qld 4800

Phone

07 4964 6700

Fax

07 4964 6713

Email 

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