An update on contraception

Part 1: oral and emergency

With GPs facing an ever increasing array of drug choices and consumer expectations regarding the risks and benefits of prescribed medications, it is important to review the evidence, the practice and the role of oral contraceptives.

Part 2: rings, implants and injections

Long-acting reversible hormonal contraceptives are less prone to issues with compliance than the more commonly used combined pill and have great potential to reduce unplanned pregnancies. It is important to include a discussion of their use in routine contraceptive counselling and encourage uptake, particularly in women who are at high risk of unplanned pregnancies.

Part 3: IUDs, barriers and natural family planning

Intrauterine devices provide highly effective and very long-acting contraception with minimal action required on the part of the user. Their effect is rapidly reversible once they are removed and they are relatively inexpensive because of their long duration of action.