12 month prescriptions

12 Month Prescriptions
As from 1st February 2026, some people with stable, long-term health conditions may be able to get prescriptions for some medications for up to 12 months.

Your doctor will work with you to decide if a 12-month prescription is safe and appropriate for you and your health needs. If you feel this may be an option for you then please make a face-to-face appointment with your doctor to discuss. This visit will be a 12-month prescription appointment and if you wish to discuss other things then please make a double appointment.

12-month prescriptions are more likely to be suitable for people with stable, long-term health conditions when the dose of medication is unlikely to change and you do not require regular monitoring with blood tests or blood pressure.

The rules for controlled drugs like strong pain relievers and ADHD medicines are not changing. ADHD medications will continue to be prescribed for 3 months with no more than 1 month dispensed by the pharmacy. 

12 month prescriptions must be picked up from the same pharmacy. Please note if you need to change pharmacy's, lose your medications, or require an extra short supply until you can see your doctor for a face-to- face review, there will be an additional charge for this. 

 Please remember: Your health always comes first.

CityMed
09 377 5525

Contraceptive Implant & Sexual Health

  • Confidential and judgement free  from an experienced Auckland sexual health clinic, offering contraception advice, STI testing, and expert long-acting contraceptive implant services.

    Comprehensive Sexual Health Services

    All CityMed doctors provide information and advice about sexual health/family planning in a private, judgement-free setting.
    Our services include:

    • Contraception counselling – emergency contraception, short-term options (pill, injection, condoms) and long-acting reversible contraception (LARC).
    • Sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening and treatment with with discreet, rapid results; partner notification and treatment advice.
    • Fertility assessment and pregnancy planning for individuals and couples.
    • Pre/Post-exposure prophylaxis (Pr/PEP) for HIV and other STIs , prescribed by Dr. David McKenzie and Dr. Ravi Sandhu.

    Contraceptive Implant & Long-Acting Options

    Looking for a reliable, low-maintenance method of birth control? CityMed offers contraceptive implant and intrauterine device services:

    Jadelle® implant – A small, flexible rod (single‑rod etonogestrel implant such as Nexplanon®) or two small rods (Jadelle®) placed just under the skin of your inner upper arm. It slowly releases progestin (progestogen) to prevent pregnancy.  Dr. Lisa Searle is fully qualified to insert and remove this small rod placed under the skin of the upper arm.  Picture of the implant.

    • Effectiveness: over 99% at preventing pregnancy.
    • Duration: Up to five years for Jadelle®; up to three years for the etonogestrel implant (Nexplanon®).
    • Process: quick in-clinic insertion under local anesthetic; removal can be done at any time if you choose to stop.
    • How it works: Prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus so sperm can’t reach an egg
    • Side effects: possible light irregular bleeding or temporary bruising at the insertion site.

    Intrauterine devices (IUDs) – Dr. Lidia Nowak provides insertion and removal of Mirena®, copper IUD, and Jaydess®. Picture of Intrauterine devices (IUDs).

    • A small, T-shaped intrauterine system placed inside the uterus. It slowly releases levonorgestrel (a progestogen) to prevent pregnancy.
    • Effectiveness: More than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy with typical use.
    • Duration: Mirena is approved in New Zealand for up to 5 years of contraception; it can be replaced during the same visit when due.
    • How it works: Thickens cervical mucus to block sperm, thins the endometrium, and may inhibit ovulation in some users.
    • Insertion: A quick in-clinic procedure. You may feel cramping during/after insertion. We recommend taking it easy for the rest of the day; light spotting or cramps can last a few days.
    • Time to effectiveness: If inserted within the first 7 days of your period, it works straight away. If inserted at another time, use condoms for the first 7 days

    Other Sexual Contraception & Surgical Options

    Why Choose CityMed

    • Experienced doctors specializing in sexual and reproductive health.
    • Confidential and supportive care environment for every patient.
    • Central Auckland location with convenient public transport and parking nearby.
    • A full range of services from STI testing to contraceptive implants and fertility planning.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does the implant contraceptive insertion hurt?
    Only a brief local anesthetic is used; most patients feel mild pressure, not pain. Insertion of mirena might cause cramping or light bleeding during and after procedure – appropriate support and follow up to ensure recovery

     How soon is the implant effective?
    Immediately if inserted during the first five days of your cycle, or after seven days at other times.

    Will it affect future fertility?
    No. Normal fertility typically returns quickly after removal.

    What are common side effects?
    Some people experience irregular bleeding or mild bruising; serious complications are rare.

    Book an Appointment

    Take control of your sexual health today. Book online to visit CityMed – your trusted sexual health clinic in Auckland.

    General Enquiry     View All Fees

    Or call us Monday to Friday 8am-5:30pm

    09 377 5525