skip to main content
Ask New Question

Contraception options in primary care: how to choose and consider

Clinical answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MSt MRCGP.

Posted: 10 August 2025Updated: 10 August 2025 Clinically Reviewed

Contraception Options in Primary Care

  • Primary care offers a comprehensive range of contraceptive methods, including long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), combined hormonal contraception (pill, patch, vaginal ring), progestogen-only contraception, and barrier methods ,.
  • Information on all methods, including their efficacy, mechanism of action, adverse effects, drug interactions, and health risks/benefits, should be provided to facilitate informed choice .
  • When selecting a method, it is crucial to exclude pregnancy and assess the individual's suitability based on their medical history, comorbidities, lifestyle, reproductive history, and current drug treatments ,.
  • The UK Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use (UKMEC) should be consulted for combined hormonal, progestogen-only, and intrauterine contraception to ensure safe use based on medical conditions and personal characteristics .
  • For barrier methods, sterilization, and natural family planning, the World Health Organization Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use (WHOMEC) should be referenced .
  • Specific considerations apply to different age groups:
    • For women aged 35 and over who smoke, combined hormonal contraception may be contraindicated due to cardiovascular risk factors .
    • In girls younger than 18, all methods can be considered if not contraindicated, but regular hormonal contraception should be avoided in those not yet menstruating. The progestogen-only injectable (DMPA) should only be considered if other methods are unsuitable or unacceptable, and its use should be carefully considered in those with risk factors for osteoporosis .
  • When a woman is unable to exclude pregnancy, an interim method should be supplied if required .
  • In England and Wales, contraceptive advice and treatment can be provided to young people under 16 without parental consent if they meet the Fraser criteria for competence .

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.

Continue exploring

Explore these topics in the iatroX reference and learning libraries.

Knowledge CentreContraception (Long-Acting Reversible - LARC)UK clinical guidanceLong-acting reversible contraception (LARC): IUD/IUS, implant, injection