Contraception Overview and Methods

Contraception: Overview

• Contraception methods are crucial for preventing unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Abstinence is the only completely effective method to prevent both
• HPV vaccines are effective in preventing HPV infections

Types of Contraception by Risk Groups

• At risk for unintended pregnancy:
  • Assess risk for STIs
  • If at risk for STIs, consider latex or non-latex condoms
  • If no latex allergy, latex condoms are safest option
  • If latex allergy, consider polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms with or without spermicide
  • If religious/personal objections to chemical/hormonal/barrier contraceptives, consider natural family planning
  • Preferred methods not requiring action during intercourse: consider Rx or OTC contraceptives
• At risk for STIs:
  • Recommend latex or non-latex condoms for protection against STIs
• Latex allergy:
  • Non-latex condoms are suitable alternatives
• Contraceptive method objections:
  • Alternative methods for patients with religious or personal preferences can be considered
• Methods not requiring action at the time of intercourse:
  • Natural family planning and Rx or OTC contraceptives are suitable options

Additional Notes

• Sperm viability: 3-5 days
• Emergency contraception (Plan B): Levonorgestrel-containing tablets (suppresses ovulation, disrupts sperm/egg transport). Effective within 72 hours (up to 5 days) of unprotected intercourse. Effective in reducing pregnancy rates to a certain degree.
• Vaginal spermicides (surface active agents): Immobilize and kill sperm, also used in vaginal foams and gels. NOT effective against STIs.
• Condoms: Latex are most common; synthetic/non-latex options also available. Natural membrane condoms exist, but not as commonly used.

Types of Lubricants

• Safe lubricants: Water-based and silicone-based are safe for use with latex condoms
• Unsafe lubricants: Oil-based lubricants should not be used with latex condoms as they can damage the latex.

Emergency Contraception

• Plan B: Levonorgestrel-containing tablets
• OTC EC products: Do not affect implanted embryos or increase risks of malformations
• Plan B most effective within the first 3 days after unprotected sex, but can be used up to 5 days after
• Adverse Effects: Nausea and vomiting are common; headaches and breast tenderness less common; menstrual changes and dizziness possible
• Remedies: Take medication with food and anti-emetics (prevent nausea/vomiting) before taking emergency contraceptive drugs.

Other Important Information

• Condoms (male and female):
  • Latex condoms are commonly used and offer some protection against STIs
  • Synthetic condoms or natural membrane condoms exist as alternatives
  • Some non-latex condoms are significantly more likely to break
  • Condoms (male and female) use and disposal should be considered, given the costs of these contraceptives.
• OTC Contraception: Additional information about types of contraceptives, lubricant safety, and various types of condoms can be found in the notes.

This quiz offers a comprehensive overview of contraception methods and their effectiveness in preventing unintended pregnancies and STIs. It covers various risk groups and recommends suitable contraceptive options based on specific needs and allergies. Test your knowledge on the types of contraception and their implications for sexual health.