Overview of Contraceptive Methods

Characteristics of the Ideal Contraceptive Method:

• 100% Contraceptive Effectiveness (Effective)
• Minimal Adverse Effects and Complications (Safe)
• Provides Contraception Only When Needed (Reversible)
• User-Friendly and Easy to Understand
• Economically Accessible
• Minimally Interferes with Intercourse (Unlinked from Intercourse)
• Ultimately Accepted by the Individual and Partner According to Their Beliefs and Convictions (Acceptable)

Selection of Contraceptive Method:
The reality is that most contraceptive methods do not require physical examinations, laboratory tests, or complicated and expensive procedures. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies selected procedures for providing contraceptive methods into four categories: A, B, C, and D. Category A includes essential and required procedures in all circumstances for the safe and effective use of the contraceptive method, while category D does not contribute to health prevention or safe and effective use.

 

Principles of Contraceptive Counseling:

• Tailor information to the patient and make it clear, specific, and precise.
• Avoid excessive information.
• Provide the patient with the desired method: informed choice.
• Assist the patient in understanding and remembering the method's characteristics and usage, and alert them to adverse effects and complications.
• Emphasize the importance of follow-up.