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Contraception options What is contraception? Contraception (birth control) can be used to prevent unplanned pregnancies. Pregnancy can happen when sperm released during penis-in-vagina sex fertilises an egg, which then implants in your uterus (womb). What should I think about when choosing contraception? There are many different forms of contraception. No form of birth control is 100% effective, but some methods are more effective than others. Aside from preventing pregnancy, some — but not all — methods of contraception can also help prevent transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Discuss contraception with a new partner before having sex, so you can choose a

What is itchy skin? Itchy skin, also known as pruritis, is a common irritation of the skin that makes you want to scratch the itchy area. It can occur anywhere on the body and can be very frustrating and uncomfortable. Itching may occur on a small part of the body, for example around the area of an insect bite, or it can affect the whole body such as an allergic reaction. Itchy skin is usually not serious. But sometimes it can be caused by a serious medical condition. What causes itchy skin? Common causes of itchy skin include: Dry skin: Skin can

What are itchy eyes? Itchy eyes, also known as ocular pruritis, are a very common problem. Itchy eyes are usually caused by an allergy or by a condition called dry eye syndrome. You might also have itchy eyelids, usually at the base of the eyelashes, and your eyes and/or eyelids might be swollen. What causes itchy eyes? The most common cause of itchy eyes is an allergy. Itchy eyes can be triggered by exposure to pollen, animal fur, mould, dust mites, make-up or eye drops. The body reacts to the trigger by releasing histamine, causing the blood vessels in the eye

Having an itchy bum or an itchy anus can be an embarrassing and uncomfortable problem. However, anal itching is quite common and once the cause is discovered and treated, most people get complete relief. An itchy anus, also called pruritus ani, is a common complaint. The itch, in or around the anus, can be extremely intense and persistent, causing a constant urge to scratch. What causes an itchy anus? There are many different possible causes for having an itchy anus, such as: leakage of poo (stool) from the rectum as a result of diarrhoea, constipation, diet, food intolerance or tears in the

Loneliness and isolation Why do I feel lonely or isolated? You can feel lonely or isolated for many reasons even when other people are around you. Some reasons you might feel lonely or isolated may come from what is happening in your life, especially if you’ve experienced major changes. These include: living alone or lacking close family around you grieving for a friend, a spouse or your partner going through a separation, divorce or family break up retiring from work, changing schools or jobs, or being unemployed living away from home for the first time having a language or cultural barrier or

Coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis What is coronary heart disease? Coronary heart disease is a chronic (long-lasting) disease. It affects the blood vessels that supply blood to your heart. It is also called coronary artery disease. Coronary heart disease is the most common cause of death in Australia, and it cannot be cured. However, there are treatments that can reduce your risk of future heart problems and improve your symptoms. What causes coronary heart disease? Coronary heart disease occurs when the arteries that supply your heart with blood become blocked. There is no one cause of coronary heart disease, but risk factors can increase your

What is irritability? Irritability is a state that involves feelings of anger or frustration, of being impatient and quick to get annoyed, especially over small things. People with irritability have a tendency to react with anger to slight provocation. They have a short temper and may snap at people. When should you see your doctor? It’s common to feel irritable from time to time, but if you feel unusually irritable or irritable all the time or on edge, it is important that you talk to your doctor as it could be a symptom of a mental health condition, like depression,

How do I know if my cycle is normal? Your menstrual cycle begins on the first day of your period and continues until (but not including) the first day of your next period. How long your period lasts and how often you get your period is different for everyone. Normal menstrual cycles range from 21 to 35 days long, with an average of 28 days. Periods usually last from 3 to 7 days. If you always have approximately the same number of days between periods, your menstrual cycle is regular. If your periods don’t follow a pattern, they are irregular. This is

What is iron deficiency? Iron deficiency is when there’s not enough iron in your body. Iron is an essential mineral for your body. Iron is needed to produce red blood cells, which are important for: a healthy immune system mental function muscle strength and energy In red blood cells, iron forms part of a protein called haemoglobin. Haemoglobin transports oxygen through your blood. It carries oxygen from your lungs to all the cells in your body so they can work properly. Your body can’t make iron, so you need to get it from your diet. If you don’t eat as much iron

What is iodine? Iodine is an element that is essential for normal growth and for the development of the brain. The body needs iodine to make thyroid hormones in the thyroid gland. Thyroid hormones influence metabolism. They are essential for the development and function of the brain, nerves and bones. A healthy diet needs enough iodine, but too much can cause health problems. Read more on the role of iodine and your health. What is iodine deficiency? Iodine deficiency occurs when you don’t have enough iodine in your body. This usually occurs because you don’t consume enough iodine in your diet. Iodine deficiency is the most common cause

What is an invasive staph infection? Invasive staphylococcus aureus (staph) infections happen when bacteria get inside your body. Staph bacteria are often found on your skin or in your nose. Even healthy people can have staph bacteria on their skin. It usually doesn’t cause any problems. Invasive staph infection happens when staph bacteria get inside your body. If bacteria get into your blood stream or lungs it can be very serious. Invasive staph infections are not as common as staph skin infections. Some sicknesses or conditions can mean a higher risk of getting an invasive staph infection. Such as people who

If you are a person living with disability, or if you are caring for someone with disability, there may be publicly funded services that provide support for you. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides services to Australians who have a permanent or significant disability. It can also provide connections to support provided by each state and territory government. The NDIS is jointly funded and governed by the Australian Government and the states and territories. The scheme replaces current and former disability support services provided by state and territory governments. The NDIS is run by the Australian Government’s National Disability Insurance Agency

What is an intrauterine device (IUD)? An intrauterine device (IUD) is a type of contraception (birth control). IUDs are small devices that are placed inside the uterus (womb) to prevent pregnancy. There are 2 types of IUD: the hormonal IUD the copper IUD An IUD needs to be put in place by a trained doctor or nurse. Placement of an IUD in the uterus after insertion. How does an IUD work to prevent pregnancy? IUDs are highly effective and reliable. They last for 5 years or more. The hormonal IUD Hormonal IUDs are made of plastic and slowly release a progestogen hormone called levonorgestrel.

Who are intersex people? The term ‘intersex’ refers to people who have genetic, hormonal or physical sex characteristics that sit outside what is usually expected for female or male bodies. This condition may also be called a ‘disorder of sex development’ (DSD). Intersex people have a variety of bodies and identities. Intersex people may identify as male, female or neither. Intersex features can be noticed when you are born. For some people, intersex features only become clear later in life. This can be at puberty or when you are trying to have a child. For many people with intersex variations,

What to expect in a hospital intensive care unit (ICU) What is an intensive care unit (ICU)? An ICU is a part of a hospital that gives care to people who are critically ill. Patients in the ICU have serious health issues that can be life-threatening. They might: have a serious injury have a serious illness be recovering from major surgery In the ICU, patients are closely monitored at all times, 24 hours a day, by teams of specialist health practitioners. The ICU is different from other hospital wards in that: there are fewer beds each bed has lots of

Insulin and non-insulin injection devices for diabetes There are many different types of medicines available to treat diabetes. Some of these medicines need to be injected. Read on for more information about injectable medicines for diabetes and tips for using them safely and effectively. What is diabetes? Diabetes is a medical condition where the body can’t maintain healthy levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. There are a few different types of diabetes including type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes. The goal of treatment in all types of diabetes is maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. How is diabetes

What is insomnia? Insomnia is a sleep disorder. If you have insomnia, you find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. Most Australians experience insomnia at some point in their lives, and about 1 in 10 people have at least mild insomnia at any given time. It is more common in females and older people. Insomnia can include: difficulty falling asleep waking up during the night and having trouble going back to sleep waking up too early Sometimes people can experience all 3 of these. You might experience insomnia for a short time, for example if you’re worried or

What is an IUD? A copper intra-uterine contraceptive device (IUD, also known as a Cu-IUD or ‘coil’) is a T-shaped implant made of plastic and copper that is placed in your uterus (womb) to prevent you from becoming pregnant. An IUD is a non-permanent (reversible) method of female contraception. Your healthcare professional can remove it at any time you choose. What are the benefits of an IUD? You or your partner should not need to use another method of contraception while the IUD is in place. An IUD in the womb. Are there any alternatives to an IUD? There are other non-permanent methods of

What is an internal cardioverter defibrillator? An internal cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a device that treats an abnormal heart rhythm. The ICD is usually inserted under the skin just below your collarbone and gives electric impulses or shocks through one or more leads that run down a vein to your heart. What are the benefits of an ICD? You may be at risk of developing an abnormal heart rhythm or you may have had an abnormal heart rhythm. An ICD is designed to sense an abnormal rhythm and give the appropriate electric treatment. If the problem is not too serious,

What is a primary gastrostomy device? A primary gastrostomy device is a type of feeding device that is inserted through the skin and into your child’s stomach. The device can be in the form of a tube or a button. What are the benefits of surgery? A gastrostomy device should allow the healthcare team to give your child nutrients and fluid directly into their stomach. They can also give your child medication through the device. A gastrostomy button in the stomach. Are there any alternatives to a gastrostomy device? It is possible for the healthcare team to give your child

What is a pacemaker? A pacemaker is a device that treats a slow heart rhythm. The pacemaker is usually smaller than a normal matchbox and contains an electric circuit and battery. The pacemaker is usually inserted under the skin just below your collarbone and gives electric impulses through one or more leads that run down a vein to your heart. What are the benefits of a pacemaker? You may be at risk of developing an abnormal heart rhythm or you may have had an abnormal heart rhythm. A pacemaker is designed to sense if your heartbeat is too slow, and to give

What is a gastric balloon? A gastric balloon is an inflatable silicone balloon that is inserted in your stomach. It works by making you feel full sooner so that you eat less. Is a gastric balloon suitable for me? A gastric balloon can only stay in place for up to 9 months. For this reason, a gastric balloon can be used to help you to lose weight to prepare for weight-loss surgery or for an operation that you have been refused until you lose enough weight to reduce the risk of serious complications. A gastric balloon in the stomach. What

What are haemorrhoids? Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are soft fleshy lumps just inside your back passage (anus). They have a rich blood supply and bleed easily, usually causing fresh bright-red bleeding when you have had a bowel movement. They do not usually cause pain but can cause itching around your anus. When large, they can pass through your anus (prolapsed pile), feeling like a lump when you clean yourself. Haemorrhoids develop gradually, often over a long period of time. They often run in families and can be made worse by pregnancy. What are the benefits of banding the haemorrhoids?

What are inhalants? Inhalants are chemical substances that release fumes at regular room temperature. Some people breathe in or ‘sniff’ some types of these substances to feel a ‘high’. This type of drug use is sometimes known as ‘sniffing’, ‘chroming’ or ‘huffing’. Inhalants include common industrial, medicinal and household products. These include solvents and other substances that evaporate easily. Substances that are commonly sniffed include: glue petrol paint Is sniffing ever safe? There is no safe level of inhalant use. If you sniff inhalants while using other drugs and medicines, the effects can be especially unpredictable and dangerous. Driving under the

What is an inguinal hernia? An inguinal hernia is where the contents of the abdomen push down towards the scrotum in boys, or labia (folds of skin at the entrance of the vagina) in girls. What are the benefits of surgery? Your child should no longer have the hernia. Surgery should prevent your child from having any of the serious complications that a hernia can cause and allow them to return to normal activities. An inguinal hernia in a boy. Are there any alternatives to surgery? The hernia will not get better without surgery. What will happen if I decide that my

What is an inguinal hernia? A hernia is where a part of the body protrudes through an abnormal opening in another part of the body, getting into a space where it doesn’t normally sit. An inguinal hernia happens when there is a weakness in the muscles in the lower part of the abdomen, and some of the contents of the abdomen are pushed through this opening into the groin. What are the symptoms of an inguinal hernia? You may first notice an inguinal hernia as a lump in the groin. The lump is usually painless, but some people report discomfort or a

What is an ingrown toenail? An ingrown toenail occurs when the side of the nail curls down and grows into the skin around the nail. Any toe can be affected but it commonly occurs in the big toe. An ingrown toenail can become painful and inflamed (tender, red and swollen). Sometimes, it can become infected, which, if left untreated, can spread and infect the underlying bone. What are the symptoms of an ingrown toenail? If you have an ingrown toenail, the area may be: painful or tender red swollen surrounded by hardened skin If the area becomes infected, you may

Surgery for ingrowing toenail (adult) What is an ingrowing toenail? An ingrowing toenail happens when your toenail grows into the skin around it. The skin can get damaged, causing infection and pain. The problem usually happens to your big toe. The most common cause of an ingrowing toenail is not cutting your toenails properly, by cutting them too short or down the sides of your toenail. Wearing shoes that do not have enough width to fit your toes in their natural position can also cause an ingrowing toenail. An ingrown toenail. What are the benefits of surgery? You should no longer have

What is informed consent? Consent is your agreement for a healthcare professional to provide you with medical treatment and care. This includes any tests, medicines, treatments or procedures you agree to. To give informed consent, you need to be given enough information about your options to make decisions about your health and healthcare. Which medical procedures need informed consent? Your doctor or healthcare professional needs your consent for any medical treatment they give you. This includes: physical checks medical treatments medical tests medical procedures What are the legal requirements for informed consent? To give informed consent in Australia, you must: have legal

What is influenza A? Influenza A is a type of virus that causes influenza (the flu), a highly contagious respiratory illness. The flu can also be caused by influenza B and, rarely, influenza C. The flu is the most common vaccine-preventable disease in Australia. Most people who have the flu are infected with the influenza type A virus. Influenza A infection is more serious than the common cold. It can cause major outbreaks and severe disease. The virus that causes COVID-19 is different from the virus that causes influenza. Influenza A infections are most common in winter. This is when different subtypes or

What is the flu? Influenza (the flu) is a viral infection affecting your nose, throat and sometimes your lungs. What are the symptoms of the flu? The symptoms of flu may include: fever dry, chesty cough headache tiredness chills aching muscles limb or joint pain diarrhoea or upset stomach sore throat runny or blocked nose sneezing loss of appetite When should I see my doctor? If you are otherwise fit and healthy, there is usually no need to see a doctor if you have flu-like symptoms. But you should see your doctor if you or your child have flu symptoms and: are younger than

What is infertility? The term infertility is used if a woman is not pregnant after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sex. Having regular sex means having sex every 2 or 3 days throughout the month. Infertility is common. Whether you are trying to fall pregnant for the first time, or are already parents who would like more children, infertility can be a stressful and frustrating experience for everyone involved. It takes time for many people to fall pregnant. Many couples with fertility problems go on to get pregnant, with or without fertility treatment. What are the causes of

Glandular fever What is glandular fever? Glandular fever is a viral infection usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is also called infectious mononucleosis or ‘mono’. It is sometimes known as the ‘kissing disease’ because it is spread through saliva. Glandular fever can affect people of all ages but is more common in young adults and teenagers. What are the symptoms of glandular fever? Symptoms of glandular fever include: sore throat fever swollen glands, usually in the neck fatigue (tiredness) nausea Other signs and symptoms can include: rash abdominal (tummy) pain swelling of your spleen (a large organ in the

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ health Who are the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of Australia? Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the first peoples of Australia. They have lived in Australia for more than 60,000 years. There are many different Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups across Australia. Each group has their own: culture language beliefs practices The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander concept of health isn’t about the individual person. Health is a whole-of-life view that includes: social emotional cultural wellbeing of the community In 2021, the number of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples was about

Faecal incontinence What is faecal incontinence? Faecal incontinence is when you experience leakage from the bowel or pass a poo at the wrong time or in the wrong place due to poor bowel control. You may also have trouble with excessive wind or staining of underwear. As many as 1 in 20 people have poor bowel control, but there are treatments available. It’s more common as people get older, but young people experience faecal incontinence too. People with the condition may also have problems with bladder control. What are the symptoms of faecal incontinence? The symptoms of faecal incontinence include: being

Travel vaccinations What is vaccination? Vaccination is a way to protect yourself against certain infections. Vaccines contain tiny amounts of dead or weakened viruses, bacteria, or other substances that help your immune system prepare to fight a future infection. Vaccination is safe and effective and is especially important when travelling. Why should I get vaccinated before I travel? Many infectious diseases are uncommon in Australia, due to widespread vaccination and other public health measures. This is not the case in many other countries. Travelling can expose you to infectious diseases that are very rare in Australia. These infections can cause serious illness, even in people who are

Vaccinations and pregnancy What is vaccination? A vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect your body from specific diseases before you come into contact with them. It helps your body’s natural defence system, your immune system, to become stronger and resistant to specific diseases and infections. You can have a vaccine by needle or liquid drops into your mouth by a doctor, a nurse, or sometimes a pharmacist. Before vaccines become available in Australia, they need strict medical testing and must pass the approval processes of the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). This includes checking every ingredient in the vaccine for safety, quality and

Immunisation and vaccinations for your child How does immunisation work? Immunisation protects against infectious (contagious) disease. Your body’s immune system responds to each vaccine to protect you from a specific disease, and to reduce your chance of becoming sick from the disease in the future. Once your child is vaccinated for a specific disease, they are immune to that disease if they come into contact with someone who has it. Vaccines use either inactive or weakened viruses to make your body believe it has already been infected with the disease. Your body’s immune system makes specific antibodies (special proteins that can fight germs

What is the immune system? The immune system defends the body from infection. It contains a complex network of cells, chemicals, tissues and organs. An underactive or overactive immune system can cause health problems. The immune system’s job is to protect the body from infection. It recognises ‘invaders’ such as bacteria, viruses and fungi and abnormal cells like cancer cells. It creates an immune response and helps the body fight the invasion. When harmful germs enter and invade the body, the body produces white blood cells to fight the infection. The white blood cells identify the germ and produce antibodies to fight it. Antibodies

What is an imaging-assisted wide local excision? An imaging-assisted wide local excision (lumpectomy) involves removing the cancer with a rim of breast tissue around the cancer. Before the operation, if your surgeon cannot feel the cancer, they will plan for a breast radiologist to carry out a marking procedure. Your surgeon will tell you if your nipple needs to be removed. As well as removing your breast tissue, your surgeon may remove lymph nodes in your armpit to find out if there are any cancer cells in them. What are the benefits of surgery? Removing the cancer by surgery gives you the

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators What is an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)? An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a small battery-operated medical device. It is placed in the body and connected to the heart to detect and correct abnormal rhythms of the heart. It is also called an ICD. What does an ICD do? An ICD, also sometimes called an AICD (automated implantable cardioverter defibrillator), sits under the skin near the heart. It monitors the heart’s rhythm 24 hours a day and detects abnormal rhythms in the ventricles (these are the parts of the heart that pump blood around the body). If the heart

What is ibuprofen? Ibuprofen is a type of anti-inflammatory pain-relief medicine that treats fever and mild to moderate pain caused by inflammation. It belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. How does ibuprofen work? Ibuprofen works on one of the body’s chemical pathways for pain. It reduces your body’s ability to make prostaglandins — these are the natural chemicals that trigger pain, inflammation and fever. With fewer prostaglandins in your body, pain and inflammation are reduced, and your fever goes down. What is ibuprofen used for? Ibuprofen can be used for the short-term relief of fever, mild to moderate pain and

What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition where you experience symptoms related to your digestive system. This is sometimes linked to certain foods, lifestyle habits and stress levels or mood. IBS affects around 3 out of every 10 people. Females are more likely than males to be affected. In IBS, medical investigations such as blood tests, endoscopy and imaging tests don’t show any abnormalities. IBS is a different disease from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis). IBS symptoms can have a huge impact on your quality of life. What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome? Some key

How do I know if my cycle is normal? Your menstrual cycle begins on the first day of your period and continues until (but not including) the first day of your next period. How long your period lasts and how often you get your period is different for everyone. Normal menstrual cycles range from 21 to 35 days long, with an average of 28 days. Periods usually last from 3 to 7 days. If you always have approximately the same number of days between periods, your menstrual cycle is regular. If your periods don’t follow a pattern, they are irregular. This is

How do I know if my cycle is normal? Your menstrual cycle begins on the first day of your period and continues until (but not including) the first day of your next period. How long your period lasts and how often you get your period is different for everyone. Normal menstrual cycles range from 21 to 35 days long, with an average of 28 days. Periods usually last from 3 to 7 days. If you always have approximately the same number of days between periods, your menstrual cycle is regular. If your periods don’t follow a pattern, they are irregular. This is