GUM and Sexual Health

Question 1

How does the COCP work?

Answer 1

1) Thins the endometrium
2) Prevents ovulation, alters cervical mucus

Question 2

What are the advantages of the COCP as a contraceptive?

Answer 2

1) Reversible
2) Reliable
3) Regular cycle
4) Reduce menorrhagia
5) Protective against some cancer
6) Reduce menopause symptoms
7) Helps with acne

Question 3

What are the disadvantages of COCP as contraceptive?

Answer 3

1) Doesn’t protect against STI’s
2) Drug interactions
3) VTE risk
4) Increased risk of breast and cervical cancer

Question 4

How does POP work as a contraceptive?

Answer 4

1) Thins endometrium
2) Thickens mucous

Question 5

What are the main advantages of POP as a contraceptive?

Answer 5

1) Prevents oestrogenic side effects e.g. breast tenderness
2) Suitable for smokers, obese and vulnerable of VTE

Question 6

What are the main disadvantages of POP as a contraceptive?

Answer 6

1) Less effective than COCP
2) Disrupts menstrual pattern
3) Increased risk of ectopy
4) Functional ovarian cysts can develop

Question 7

What is the Fraser guidelines?

Answer 7

Doctor can give contraceptive advice/treatment to someone below 16 if they fit the following:
- The patient will understand his advice.
- The doctor cannot persuade the patient to inform their parents.
- The patient is very likely to continue having sexual intercourse with or without contraception.
- If the patient does not receive contraceptive advice their physical/mental health will suffer.
- It is in the patients best interests to receive contraceptive advice and treatment without parental consent.

Question 8

What is the importance of contract tracing in STI’s?

Answer 8

1) Breaks chain of infection
2) Prevents re-infection
3) Treatment for asymptomatic individuals

Question 9

What are the main important questions in a sexual health History?

Answer 9

1) When was last intercourse
1) Type of intercourse
2) Regular/casual partners
3) Male/female partners?
4) Contraceptive use
5) How many partners in last 3 and last 12 months

Question 10

What are the main STI symptoms in women?

Answer 10

1) Abnormal discharge
2) Itching
3) Soreness
4) Ulcers/lumps
5) Post intercourse bleeding

Question 11

What are the main STI symptoms in men?

Answer 11

1) Urethral pain
2) Pain on micturition
3) Abnormal discharge
4) Swelling
5) Ulcers/blisters

Question 12

What is a cause of PID?

Answer 12

Infection e.g. gonorrhoea/chlamydia that ascends from the endocervix.