Contraception - non-LARC

Question 1

With any form of contraception what are the general rules about when it becomes effective when you start using it?
What are the contradictions to this?

Answer 1

If taken within first 5 days - immediately effective
If taken after this need to use condom for 7 days

Mini-pill (progesterone only) - use condom for 2 days post
Cu-IUD - immediately effective anywhere in the cycle

Question 2

You can now buy non-LARC tablets OTC. For how long can you do this before you need to properly see a doctor?

Answer 2

3 months

Question 3

COCP has the most contradictions of any of the forms of contraception. What is the major risk?

What kind of migraines a contradiction?
What level of HTN?
How many fags a day?
Damage/cancer of which organ?
Disease and conditions of which organ?

Answer 3

Major risk = arterial or venous clots -> PE/stroke etc.

Migraine with aura
160/100
15 cigs a day
Cirrhosis/cancer of the liver
All manner of current heart conditions

Question 4

What non-LARC is the first line in management of PCOS and can help with symptoms of PMS?

Answer 4

COCP

Question 5

How does COCP work?

Answer 5

Inhibits ovulation by mimicking the luteal phase

Question 6

Describe how BP should be monitored in someone taking COCP?

Answer 6

Measure at start
In 3 months
Then annually

Question 7

How do you take the COCP?

Answer 7

21 days with 7 day break

OR

Continously - if bleed for 4+ days - break for 4 days and then start back up again

Question 8

How long is the window you have each day to take the mini pill?

What happens if you miss it?

Answer 8

12hrs each day

It won’t work for 2 days - then will return to efficiency

Question 9

Why is migraine with aura a contradiction?

What is the most common aura present?

Answer 9

Increases risk of stroke

Bright white spot in vision