skip to main content

Breast cancer contraception — DFSRH MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardUKMECBreast cancer contraceptionDFSRH

A 41-year-old woman on tamoxifen after oestrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer asks for contraception. She has regular periods and does not want permanent contraception. What is the most appropriate contraceptive method?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Copper intrauterine device

Current or recent breast cancer makes hormonal contraception inappropriate, and a copper IUD is a highly effective non-hormonal reversible method. POP, implant and LNG-IUD contain progestogen and are generally avoided in this context unless specialist circumstances apply. CHC adds oestrogen exposure and is unsuitable. The pearl is that tamoxifen users can remain fertile and need reliable non-hormonal contraception.

Reference: UKMEC 2025; FSRH Guidance: Contraception After Breast Cancer