A breastfeeding woman 4 weeks after birth asks for contraception and wants a pill. Which is most suitable?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. A progestogen-only pill
- Step 1: Oestrogen can reduce milk supply and carries thrombotic risk after birth.
- Step 2: UKMEC rates combined hormonal methods as unsuitable before 6 weeks postpartum in breastfeeding women.
Answer
A progestogen-only pill.
Why not the others: The combined oral contraceptive pill, taken from today: Combined methods are not recommended in the early postnatal period. No contraception is needed at all while she is breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is not a reliable method beyond the first six months and requires strict conditions. A vaginal ring containing oestrogen, inserted from today: The ring also contains oestrogen.
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