Undertaking an oral contraceptive pill review

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Sexual Health
• Primary Care

Background:

• Annual oral contraceptive pill reviews, or 'pill checks', are a key nursing responsibility in primary and sexual health services.
• Effective pill checks require knowledge of various oral contraceptive types and associated risk factors.
• Guidance from the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare informs best practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To equip nurses with a comprehensive understanding of the oral contraceptive pill review process.
• To guide nurses in effectively assessing patients during annual pill checks.
• To promote informed decision-making for women regarding contraception.

Main Methods:

• Review of current recommendations from the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare.
• Emphasis on a systematic approach to patient assessment during pill checks.
• Highlighting the importance of interprofessional collaboration with GPs and independent prescribers.

Main Results:

• Nurses can systematically evaluate oral contraceptive pill use by considering diverse patient factors.
• Enhanced understanding of pill types and risks improves the quality of care.
• Collaboration ensures comprehensive patient support and informed choices.

Conclusions:

• A systematic, evidence-based approach to pill checks empowers nurses to provide optimal care.
• Effective collaboration with other healthcare professionals is crucial for successful contraceptive management.
• This process supports women in making informed decisions about their reproductive health.