Short-Acting Reversible Contraceptives Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is a characteristic of Short-acting Reversible Contraceptives (SARCs)?

They require less frequent user action.

They provide long-term protection against pregnancy.

They do not have any side effects.

They allow users to select from multiple methods. (correct)

What mechanism do Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) primarily use to prevent pregnancy?

They increase the likelihood of sperm reaching the egg.

They thicken cervical mucus and alter the uterine lining. (correct)

They prevent ovulation by releasing sperm.

They create a barrier that prevents sperm from entering.

Which of the following is NOT a common side effect associated with the use of COCs?

Nausea

Breast tenderness

Weight gain

Increased heart rate (correct)

Why is consistent and correct use of SARCs crucial for their effectiveness?

Missed doses can result in a significantly lower effectiveness. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes SARCs from Long-acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)?

SARCs require more frequent user engagement and attention. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism by which progestin-only pills (mini-pills) work?

Thickening the cervical mucus Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a notable benefit of using combined oral contraceptives (COCs)?

They can reduce the risk of ovarian cysts and certain cancers. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant difference between the effectiveness of the contraceptive patch and progestin-only pills?

The patch is over 99% effective, while mini-pills have a 9% failure rate. Signup and view all the answers

What should a user do if they miss a pill in a combined hormonal contraceptive regimen?

Double the dose of the next pill. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common side effect of using the patch?

Weight loss. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement regarding the vaginal ring is accurate?

It can be used continuously without a withdrawal week. Signup and view all the answers

Why might a woman choose progestin-only pills over combined hormonal contraceptives?

They are safer for women who cannot take estrogen. Signup and view all the answers

What is a contraindication for using combined hormonal contraception?

Being over 35 years old. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'tailored regimens' refer to in the context of hormonal contraception?

Adjusting the length of pill cycles based on individual needs. Signup and view all the answers

How does the contraceptive patch prevent pregnancy?

By preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Short-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (SARCs)

SARCs require regular action by the user, such as daily, weekly, or monthly use.
Effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly and consistently.
Examples: Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs), Progestin-only Pills (POPs), the Contraceptive Patch, and the Vaginal Ring.

Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs)

Popular form of hormonal birth control combining estrogen and progestin.
Prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and alter uterine lining.
Over 99% effective when used correctly.
Can regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual cramps, and make periods lighter.
Must be taken at the same time every day.
Side effects: nausea, breast tenderness, weight gain, and mood changes.
Increased risk of blood clots, especially in smokers and women over 35.
Benefits: Reduce risk of ovarian cysts, endometrial and ovarian cancers, and treat acne.

Progestin-only Pills (POPs)

Contain only progestin, without estrogen.
Primarily work by thickening cervical mucus and suppressing ovulation.
Good option for women who cannot take estrogen.
Fertility returns quickly after stopping.
Fewer side effects than COCs, but some users may experience irregular bleeding or changes in menstrual flow.
Must be taken at the same time every day.
Less effective than COCs.

The Contraceptive Patch

Small, square adhesive placed on the skin.
Releases estrogen and progestin to prevent pregnancy.
Worn for one week and replaced with a new one for three weeks, followed by a patch-free week.
Over 99% effective when used correctly.
Easier to manage than daily pills.
Side effects: skin irritation, nausea, headaches, or mood changes.
May increase the risk of blood clots.

The Vaginal Ring

Small, flexible ring inserted into the vagina.
Releases a steady, low dose of estrogen and progestin.
Prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining.
Worn for three weeks, removed for one week, and then a new ring is inserted.
Over 99% effective when used correctly.
Convenient and non-invasive.
Side effects: vaginal irritation, nausea, headaches, or mood changes.

Contraindications for Combined Hormonal Contraception

Life Situations: Breastfeeding, might be pregnant, obese (BMI > 35), immobile for a long period, or uses a wheelchair.
Diseases: Heart disease or history of stroke, diabetes with complications, cardiac abnormalities, circulatory disease, breast cancer within the last five years, thrombosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, migraines with aura, active liver or gallbladder disease, or 35 years or older and a smoker.

Combined Pill Rules

Start the pill anytime in the menstrual cycle if pregnancy is excluded.
Start on the first day of the period for immediate protection.
Can start up to the fifth day of the period for immediate protection unless there is a short cycle.
If started at any other time in the cycle, use additional contraception for the first seven days of taking the pill (nine days for Qlaira).
Do not double the dose if you miss a pill, skip the first seven days to start a cycle earlier, or take two pills on the first day.

Standard vs. Tailored Regimens

Traditional method: 21 days of taking the pill or using a patch/vaginal ring with a 7-day break.
Designed to induce a monthly bleed, mimicking natural cycles.
Research indicates the 7-day break is unnecessary and does not provide health benefits.
Drawbacks of the 7-day break: heavy or painful bleeding, headaches, mood changes, errors in taking the pill/using the patch/ring which can increase the risk of ovulation and pregnancy.

Progesterone-only Pill Rules

Start the pill anytime in the menstrual cycle if pregnancy is excluded.
Start on the first day of the period for immediate protection.
Can start up to the fifth day of the period for immediate protection unless there is a short cycle.
If started at any other time, use additional contraception for the first two days.

Annual Review for Continued Contraception

Assess eligibility for continuing a contraceptive method annually.
Review factors affecting efficacy and safety.
Patient assessment should include medical conditions, personal history of venous thromboembolism, obstetric and gynecological history, mental health, and well-being.
Family history: First-degree relatives with arterial thromboembolic events, venous thromboembolism, or breast/ovarian cancer.
Drug history: prescription medications, liver enzyme inducing medications, teratogenic drugs, non-prescription medications, recreational drugs.
Female reproductive health: last menstrual period, regularity, cycle length, dysmenorrhea, heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, fibroids, cervical cytology screening history, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) screening.

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Description

Test your knowledge on Short-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (SARCs). This quiz covers details about Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs), Progestin-only Pills (POPs), and their effectiveness, usage, benefits, and side effects. Dive in to understand how these contraceptives work and what to consider when using them.