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Does structured counselling influence combined hormonal contraceptive choice?
Mireille Merckx1, Gilbert G Donders, Pascale Grandjean
1Universitair Medisch Centrum St Pieter, VUB/ULB, Brussels, Belgium.
Summary
Structured counselling helps women choose contraceptives, with many switching methods. Gynaecologist recommendations significantly influenced undecided women
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Gynaecology
- Patient Decision-Making
Background:
- Contraceptive choice is complex.
- Comprehensive counselling is key for informed decisions.
- Gynaecologists play a vital role in guiding patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of structured counselling on women's contraceptive choices.
- To understand gynaecologists' perspectives on contraceptive counselling.
Main Methods:
- 1801 Belgian women (18-40) considering combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) received counselling.
- Gynaecologists used a comprehensive leaflet for counselling on combined oral contraceptives (COCs), patch, and vaginal ring.
- Patient and gynaecologist questionnaires assessed pre/post-counselling choices and decision rationale.
Main Results:
- 94% of women chose a method post-counselling; COC (53%), patch (5%), ring (27%).
- 39% of women selected a different method after counselling; patch use rose from 3% to 5%, ring use tripled from 9% to 27%.
- Undecided women primarily chose the method recommended by their gynaecologist.
Conclusions:
- Structured counselling empowers women to select contraceptive methods, often leading to changes from initial preferences.
- Gynaecologist influence is significant, particularly for women undecided about their contraceptive method.
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