Contraceptive Pearl: Contraception and sickle cell disease

This edition covers the use of contraception by people with sickle cell disease.

Contraceptive Pearl: Decoupling Pap and Contraception

Advocates for clinicians to decouple pelvic exams and birth control in their practice.

Contraceptive Pearl: Depression and Contraception

Depression affects many of our patients. In the United States, the lifetime prevalence of major depression is 17%, approximately twice as common among women as among men. This edition of the Contraceptive Pearls reviews best practices for contraceptive care for patients with depression.

Contraception for patients with lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus primarily affects women of reproductive age and often worsens during pregnancy. This issue covers contraceptive options for lupus patients who usually receive little contraceptive counseling.

Contraceptive Pearl: IUD Duration

IUDs are a great type of long-lasting contraception, and each type of IUD lasts for a different amount of time. Find out the duration of different kinds of IUDs in this Contraceptive Pearl.

Contraceptive Pearl: Coding for LARC Insertion & Removal

As of September 2014, HCPCS codes for removing and inserting IUDs and contraceptive implants have changed. Read the new codes in this Contraceptive Pearl.

Contraceptive Pearl: St. John’s Wort and Hormonal Contraception

Women who take St. John’s wort should consider using a barrier method along with oral contraceptive pills. Pill users who need medication for depression should consider something other than St. John’s wort. The possible interaction between St. John’s wort and oral contraceptives highlights the importance of asking patients about their use of health supplements.

Contraceptive Pearl: LARC for Teens

Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC) methods are a great option for people who want a method they don’t have to think about. This Contraceptive Pearl addresses LARC use, specifically for teens.

Contraceptive Pearl: Zika Virus and Reproductive Health

The Zika virus poses an international public health threat. A more vigorous and appropriate response to Zika should include full access to contraception, prenatal care, options counseling, abortion care, and pediatric developmental services. Read about the relation between the Zika virus and reproductive health in this Contraceptive Pearl.

Contraceptive Pearl: Oral Contraceptives and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Which oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are best for patients at risk for cardiovascular disease? Find out in this Contraceptive Pearl.