164343 - New Choices in Oral Contraception – Dispelling Old Myths

Evidence from The International Journal of Women's Health (2017) examining bleeding preferences and attitudes towards menstruation, showed that the majority of women prefer menstrual periods at a frequency of less than once monthly, with most women preferring three-monthly periods or none at all. 
This 1.5hr Category 2 activity, will describe the issues around heavy menstrual periods and patients preference for fewer periods, counsel patients about the differences between menstrual bleeds and withdrawal bleeds and how to educate patients about the safety of extended regimen of oral contraceptives.

Evidence from The International Journal of Women's Health (2017) examining bleeding preferences and attitudes towards menstruation, showed that the majority of women prefer menstrual periods at a frequency of less than once monthly, with most women preferring three-monthly periods or none at all. Furthermore, a 2019 United States study on oral contraceptive pills (Cooper et al 2019) revealed that approximately 14% of individuals use them for non-contraceptive purposes. COCPs have been shown to be highly effective not only with regards to contraception but also in their non-contraceptive benefits. 
General practitioners are also well placed to advise patients about potential risks and benefits associated with the COCP. In particular, taking a patient-centred approach to educating and advising patients the advantages, disadvantages, safety and efficacy of extended or continuous regimens.