Community-generated resource library-CDC When to Start Using Specific Contraceptive Methods

CDC When to Start Using Specific Contraceptive Methods

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To be reasonably certain that a patient is not pregnant, healthcare providers should ensure that the patient has no pregnancy symptoms and meets at least one of the following criteria: she is within seven days after starting normal menses, hasn't had sexual intercourse since the last normal menses, has been consistently using reliable contraception, is within seven days after an abortion, or is postpartum and breastfeeding as specified.<br /><br />In cases where providers are unsure if a patient might be pregnant, they may consider starting certain contraceptives like implants, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), combined hormonal contraceptives, or progestin-only pills, with a follow-up pregnancy test in 2-4 weeks. For intrauterine devices (IUDs), another contraceptive should be used until pregnancy is ruled out.<br /><br />Different contraceptive methods can be initiated at any time if pregnancy is reasonably ruled out, although some may require backup contraception if started beyond specific windows since the start of menses. For instance, copper IUDs (Cu-IUD) do not require additional contraception, whereas others might need barrier methods if starting beyond a set number of days post-menses. <br /><br />Routine follow-up after starting a contraceptive method isn't mandatory unless desired by the patient. However, assessing patient satisfaction, noting any health status changes, and discussing weight concerns are recommended actions during follow-up. Routine examinations to check for IUD strings or blood pressure measurements are suggested based on the specific contraceptive method used.<br /><br />These guidelines ensure safe and effective contraceptive use and should be adjusted based on individual patient needs and situations.

Keywords

pregnancy symptoms

contraceptive methods

IUD

DMPA

progestin-only pills

copper IUD

backup contraception

patient satisfaction

healthcare providers

follow-up