22-year-old female presents to the office with questions concerning contraceptive options...
A 22-year-old female presents to the office with questions concerning contraceptive options. History reveals she has just started a new relationship and they are planning to be sexually active in the near future. She has not had intercourse in the past and has never used contraceptives. She has no medical problems and takes no medications. She has a family history of a "blood disorder" and was told by her mother she should not take hormones. Her greatest concern is becoming pregnant and she would like the most effective contraceptive against pregnancy. Vital signs reveal a blood pressure of 120/82 mmHg, a heart rate of 62/min, and respiratory rate of 18/min. Physical exam reveals a healthy appearing female with a regular rate and rhythm and clear breath sounds bilaterally. In addition to counseling the patient on the risk of STIs, the most appropriate recommendation is
- coitus interruptus
- progestin implant
- male condom
- copper IUD
- oral contraceptive pill
Copper IUDs are one of the most effective contraceptives on the market. They can stay in place for up to ten years and have a failure rate of less than 0.8%.
The Copper IUD works by acting as a natural spermicide within the uterus, and is an excellent option for patients who cannot take hormones but desire long term contraception.