The choice of a contraceptive method is a complex decision
The choice of a contraceptive method is a complex decision; nurse practitioners have an essential role in providing information and supporting patients’ decision-making about contraceptive methods through contraceptive counseling.
Family planning is designed to help individuals achieve their reproductive goals. However, family planning care should not have a singular focus of preventing unintended pregnancy, as this is not consistent with all patients’ preferences or necessary to optimize health outcomes. Instead, providers should focus on people reaching their desired reproductive outcomes by supporting them to make informed decisions about their fertility and contraceptive use that are aligned with their preferences and reproductive goals.
In this assignment, you will:
- Review what options might be best for a teenager with a rationale for your choices.
- Review what options might be best for a 28-year-old who is considering pursuing a pregnancy in the next year or so (also include your rationale for your choices).
- Review what options might be best for a 38-year-old. Female smoker who feels she is done having children (with rationales).
- Review what options which might be best for a 45 y.o. Perimenopausal patient who is beginning to experience some menstrual irregularity along with hot flashes and night sweats. (with rationales).
Sample Answer
1. Teenager
Best Options:
- Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs): Highly effective in preventing pregnancy and can help regulate menstrual cycles.
- Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs): Options like intrauterine devices (IUDs) or implants are highly effective and long-lasting.
- Barrier Methods: Condoms are effective in preventing pregnancy and STIs.
Rationale:
- Hormonal contraceptives: COCs and LARCs offer excellent pregnancy prevention and can address menstrual irregularities or acne.
- Barrier methods: Condoms are essential for preventing STIs, especially in sexually active teenagers.