Written by Julia Ellis-Kahana, MD and Mollie Nisen, MD Effective management of pain during uterine aspiration is critical for patient autonomy, satisfaction and safety.1 A patient’s experience of pain is influenced by a combination of distinct physical, emotional, and social factors. Therefore, a multimodal approach, guided by shared-decision making, and incorporating both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic…
Written by Angeline Ti, MD, MPH Earlier this month, the World Health Organization (WHO) released the 6th edition of the Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use (MEC) and the 4th edition of the Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use (SPR). Clinicians in the US may be familiar with the similarly named guidance, the US MEC…
The Affordable Care Act requires public and most private health insurance plans to cover the full range of birth control methods with no out-of-pocket costs. But some people do not have health insurance or have plans that are exempt from birth control coverage. This factsheet lists different resources and programs to help you obtain free or low-cost services so that cost does not have to limit access to your preferred birth control method.
Written by Evan Fu, PharmD Candidate 2025, and Regina Ginzburg, Pharm.D., CDCES, BC-ADM Opioid use has increased dramatically over the last two decades, including among people of reproductive age. The number of pregnant people with opioid use disorder (OUD) presenting to the hospital at labor and delivery quadrupled between 1999 and 2014.1 A recent data analysis…
This fact sheet offers patients and clinicians a menu of options to manage pain during gynecologic procedures in an office setting, like IUD placement and removal, cervical or endometrial biopsies, colposcopy, uterine suction (e.g. abortion, miscarriage management), pap smears, and other common gynecologic care. Methods include: comfort options, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen,…
Making medication abortion (MAB) easier to access on college campuses is important for supporting students’ health, well-being, and reproductive autonomy. Many college students face real challenges when trying to get abortion care – from not knowing where to go, to not being able to afford it. These barriers are often even greater for students from…
Talking with others about pregnancy and/or abortion experiences can help in processing emotions and decision-making. But, some people have been investigated or arrested after information about their abortion or miscarriage was given to law enforcement–usually by friends, family, partners, or healthcare workers. Use the tips and resources in this guide to protect yourself and your…
Written by Lisa Maldonado, MA, MPH There are more than 2,500 school-based health centers (SBHCs) across the country.1 SBHCs present a vital opportunity to integrate contraceptive care within primary care services for adolescents. These centers are uniquely positioned within the school environment—where students spend a significant portion of their time—to deliver comprehensive primary and preventive…