Reproductive/GU Flashcards
Main groups of hormonal contraceptives (2 groups)
Estrogen-progestin contraceptives
Progestin-only contraceptive
Estrogen-progestin contraceptives Mechanism of Action
Estrogens: suppress FSH release, stabilize the endometrial lining, provide cycle control
Progestins: block the LH surge = no ovulation, thicken cervical mucus delay sperm transport, induce endometrial atrophy/inhibit endometrial proliferation
Estrogen-progestin contraceptives - indications
Abnormal bleeding (menorrhagia/ metrorrhagia/ amenorrhea) – assuming other causes have been excluded, Dysmenorrhea Endometriosis, PCOS Acne, PMS/PMDD
Estrogen-progestin contraceptives - cautions
breastfeeding - may decrease milk supply, HLD, DM with complications, prolonged immobility/long leg cast (clot), migraine without aura over the age of 35
Estrogen-progestin contraceptives - contraindications
Thromboembolic disease, CAD, Active liver disease, Breast cancer, Smoker over 35 yo, Migraine with aura, Uncontrolled HTN, Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
Estrogen adverse effects (Excess and deficiency)

Progestin adverse effects (excess and deficiency)

High doses of estrogen-progestin contraceptives increases the risk of
Breast cancer, stroke, MI, DVT
Androgenic adverse effects
Acne
Weight gain
Hirsutism
Fatigue
Depression
Progestin only contraceptive options
Minipill
Nexplanon implant
DMPA injection - Depo-Provera
IUD - Mirena, Skyla, Lilletta
Continuous dosing of estrogen-progestin ocps is possible with which formulation?
monophasic
Transdermal contraceptive patch - adverse effects
Greater incidence of venous throboembolism (black box warning_
-60% more estrogen exposure than OC
Not indicated for weight > 198lbs
Depo Provera risks/side effects
Bleeding irregularities
Delayed return of fertility (up to 6-18 months)
-don’t use more than 2 yrs
Weight gain
Decrease in bone mineral density
Progestin-only contraceptives Mechanism of Action
Inhibition of ovulation- suppression of midcycle peaks of LH & FSH
Thickened, decreased cervical mucous
Thinner, atrophic endometrium
Progestin-only contraceptives - adverse effects
Spotting
Amenorrhea
Irregular menstruation
Ectopic pregnancy - increased risks
Paragard IUD Mechanism of Action
MOA: copper toxic to sperm, prevents implantation
Paragard benefits/side effects
Benefits: nonhormonal, use for up to 10 years
Side effects: increased menstrual flow and dysmenorrhea
Emergency Contraception Options
Plan B
Ella
Paragard
Emergency Contraception Mechanism of Action
Suppresses Ovulation (if taken prior to LH surge)
Prevent fertilization of an ovulated egg
Copper IUD: may also prevent implantation
No impact if already pregnant
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Indications
Menopausal vasomotor symptoms
Vaginal atrphy - vaginal preparations
Added benefits: –increased bone density however decreased bone density is not an indication to start HRT –decreases risk of colon cancer
Prescribing HRT
Use lowest dose for shortest duration possible
Less risky in younger women
Vaginal preparation less risky than oral/transdermal
In people with an intact uterus both estrogen and progesterone must be used - unopposed estrogen in those with a uterus increases risk for endometrial cancer
HRT contraindications
Breast cancer, CHD, VTE hx or high risk, liver disease, unexplained vaginal bleeding
Estrogen/progestin contraceptive counseling
How/when to start
Whether or not a back up method is needed
Common side effects and how to avoid Dangerous side effects
No protection against STIs
Follow-up visit
For pills: strategies to remember to take and what to do if a dose is missed
ACHES
Contraindications to IUD placement
Current PID/cervicitis or PID within the last 3 months
Nulliparity or remote hx of PID (>3 mos) is not a contraindication
