Contraceptive Methods: Assessment and Management

This course aims to increase GPs’ confidence in supporting women and transgender men to choose between different contraceptive methods considering acceptability, safety, and efficacy.

Course overview:

 This course is one of the seven modules of the FPAA National Certificate in Reproductive and Sexual Health for Doctors course

This course aims to upskill clinicians with evidence-based information in:

• Sexual health counselling
• Assessment of contraindications (co-morbidities/drug-drug interactions) to specific contraceptive methods
• Efficacy and suitability of specific contraceptive methods
• Management of complications associated with specific contraceptive methods

Course outcomes:

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Describe the mechanism of action, efficacy, side effects, contraindications, risks, advantages, and disadvantages of all forms of available contraception in people with uncomplicated and complicated SRH history
• Explain the function and demonstrate the usage of UK Medical Eligibility Criteria (UKMEC) when assessing contraceptive needs prior to prescribing
• Explain the concept of typical use vs perfect use efficacy
• Provide appropriate advice on initiation of contraceptive methods, including Quick Start
• Manage troublesome side effects of contraceptive methods

Who should register?

• General practitioners
• Nurse practitioners
• International medical graduates and medical students
• GP registrars
• Registered nurses
• Registered midwives
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioners