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Postpartum contraception — DRCOG MCQ

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HardPostnatalPostpartum contraceptionDRCOG

A breastfeeding woman is 14 days after birth and wants reliable contraception. She has no contraindication to a progestogen-only pill. What is the most appropriate advice?

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Correct answer: C — She can start a desogestrel pill from today

The best answer is “She can start a desogestrel pill from today”. A progestogen-only pill can be started immediately after childbirth, including while breastfeeding, when it is clinically appropriate and the patient chooses it. Return of menstruation is not required. Combined hormonal contraception has different early-postpartum eligibility considerations, but these do not prevent use of progestogen-only contraception.

Reference: FSRH Guideline: Progestogen-only pills: https://www.fsrh.org/Common/Uploaded%20files/documents/fsrh-ceu-clinical-guideline-progestogen-only-pills-aug22-amended-11july-2023-.pdf