This course is delivered entirely online and deals with the social, epidemiological and clinical aspects of family planning. It explores the various methods of contraception, sterilisation and pregnancy termination currently available. The focus is on contraceptive methods available in Australia and New Zealand but the course also looks at methods available in other countries and possible future developments in contraceptive technologies. It is likely to be most relevant to those working primarily in a reproductive health setting-in particular gynaecologists in training, sexual health physicians, primary care physicians and family planning practitioners as well as nurses, counsellors and scientists with a special interest in this field.
This course will cover 9 topics:
• Contraceptive Needs and Practice
• Fertility Awareness Methods
• Barrier Methods
• Intrauterine Devices
• Combined Oral Contraception
• Practical Aspects of Oral Contraception
• Long Acting Contraceptive Methods
• Termination of Pregnancy
• Male and Female Sterilisation

This course examines the attributes, risks and benefits of the contraceptive methods presently available and those likely to become available in the short term future. Particular emphasis will be given to the various factors which influence contraceptive choice and to the interdependent roles of patient and clinician in determining such choice. Whenever possible the course will attempt to take an evidence-based approach to the material presented, based largely on the World Health Organisation’s publication- “Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use” and its United Kingdom equivalent which is published by the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare.

After completion of this course participants will be able to:
• Describe how each method exerts its contraceptive effect
• Describe various methods of contraception in terms of their efficacy, benefits, risks and side-effects
• Confidently discuss these methods with patients/clients, adapting that discussion to meet that particular person’s needs and preferences. This would include consideration of age, cultural background, medical problems and risk of sexually transmitted infection
• Provide competent and balanced advice as to which contraceptive options might most closely meet an individual patient/client’s needs