Contraception Flashcards
(10 cards)
What are the main types of hormonal contraception available in the UK?
Combined hormonal contraception (CHC) — COC pill, transdermal patch, vaginal ring.
Progestogen-only contraception — POP, implant, injectable.
Intrauterine contraception (IUC) — copper IUD, LNG-IUD.
What is the primary mechanism of action of the combined hormonal contraception (CHC)?
CHC inhibits ovulation by reducing the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), preventing the release of eggs from the ovaries.
How effective is combined hormonal contraception with perfect use?
With perfect use, the failure rate of combined hormonal contraception (CHC) is less than 1%.
What are some of the health benefits of using combined hormonal contraception (CHC)?
Reduced risk of ovarian, endometrial, and colorectal cancer.
Reduced dysmenorrhoea (painful periods) and menorrhagia (heavy periods).
Improvement in acne and reduced menopausal symptoms.
What are some of the health risks of using combined hormonal contraception (CHC)?
The contraceptive pill slightly increases the risk of breast cancer.
What is the recommended action if a female using combined hormonal contraception (CHC) is approaching 50 years of age?
It is recommended to discontinue CHC use by age 50 and consider alternative, safer methods of contraception.
What are some possible side effects of using the copper IUD (copper coil)?
Heavier or longer periods, especially in the first few months.
Cramping or spotting, particularly after insertion.
Risk of dislodgement or infection.
How does the copper IUD (copper coil) prevent pregnancy?
Spermicidal Effect: Copper creates an environment toxic to sperm.
Prevention of Implantation: Alters the uterine lining to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.
Immune Response: Triggers an inflammatory response that is hostile to sperm and fertilized eggs.
What are the health risks associated with progestogen-only injectable contraception?
Use of the depot medroxyprogesterone acetate injection is associated with a small loss of bone mineral density, especially in young females, and should be reviewed every two years. Females aged 50 and over should switch to another contraceptive method.
What should be considered when choosing a contraceptive method for a woman?
Factors to consider include:
Personal preferences, beliefs, and future plans for children.
Health history, including comorbidities (e.g., hypertension, migraine).
Age, lifestyle (e.g., smoking), and reproductive history.
Drug interactions and possible allergies.
