MIMS has introduced two new tables to help prescribers check at a glance how to start or change contraceptive methods.
The table 'Initiating combined hormonal contraception' explains when to start combined hormonal contraception (CHC) in women who:
- have menstrual cycles
- are amenorrhoeic
- have recently given birth
- have recently had a first- or second-trimester abortion
The table 'Switching to and between combined hormonal contraception' explains when to start CHC after switching from:
- another type of CHC (pill, patch or ring)
- a traditional progesterone-only pill or levonorgestrel-releasing IUS
- progesterone-only anovulatory methods (implant, injection or desogestrel-only pill)
- non-hormonal methods including IUDs
Recommendations for additional contraceptive precautions are summarised in each case.
The different types of contraception listed are linked to the relevant MIMS sections for more detailed prescribing information.
The tables are taken from the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare's guideline on CHC, and can be found in the September print edition of MIMS as well as online.
