Contraception Flashcards
What is meant by a ‘99%’ effectiveness with regards to contraception?
That an average person using this method of contraception properly with a regular partner for a single year would only have a 1% change of getting pregnant
What is UKMEC used for?
Outline the 4 levels of UKMEC
To assess the safety of different contraceptive methods based on individuals
UKMEC1 = no restriction in use UKMEC2 = advantages > disadvantages UKMEC3 = disadvantages > advantages UKMEC4 = unacceptable risk, contraindicated
What is the effectiveness of the COCP if taken properly?
> 99%
What is the main mechanism of action of the COCP as contraception?
State two other actions
Prevents ovulation
Thickens cervical mucus
Thins endometrium
What are the different ways to take the the COCP (different types)? (3)
Describe each one
Monophasic - identical pills taken every day for 21 days followed by 7 day gap
Phasic - one pill taken every day for 21 days followed by 7 day gap, but pills contain varying amounts of hormones (need to be taken in correct order)
Every day - pill taken everyday, 7 are inactive placebo pills
What are common side effects of the COCP?
Breakthrough bleeding/spotting Breast tenderness Headaches/migraines Changes in libido Acne
What are some risks associated with COCP use?
Stroke
DVT
HTN
Increased risk of breast cancer
What effect does COCP use have on cancer risk?
Increased risk - breast cancer
Reduced risk - endometrial, ovarian and colon cancer
What are some UKMEC 4 contraindications for COCP use?
Over 35 + smoker Pregnancy Previous thrombosis Previous stroke/heart disease Uncontrolled HTN FH thrombosis Migraine with aura Breast cancer
When should the COCP be started to offer immediate protection?
First day of the cycle (first day of menstrual period)
What is the missed pill rule for ONE missed pill?
Take missed pill as soon as possible, no extra protection required
If you start the COCP not on the first day of the cycle, what precautions should be taken?
Barrier contraception for 7 days
How should switching of combined pill types be done?
Once 21 days of first pill is over, start 21 days of new pill immediately
Name two types of COCP
Microgynon
Yasmine
How is the POP taken differently to the COCP?
POP is taken continuously
COCP is taken cyclically
How does the POP work as contraception? (2)
Thickens cervical mucus
Prevents ovulation
What is the effectiveness of the POP if taken perfectly?
> 99%
What time of the day should traditional POP be taken?
Within the same 6 hour window every day (3 hours +/- the same time from day before)