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The risk of misinformation is that patients receiving treatment for mental health problems may be denied full contraceptive counseling.
Although the use of contraception in patients of reproductive age with mental health concerns has been proven to be safe in most cases, myths persist that claim its potential negative effects. The risk of this misinformation is for patients receiving treatment for mental health problems, who may experience adverse events from an unplanned pregnancy, or who require comprehensive counseling before choosing to become pregnant. may refuse complete contraceptive counseling.
To address these challenges to optimal care, Haley Miller, MD, and colleagues developed a review addressing the incidence of mental health conditions in people of reproductive age. This includes a review of typical adverse reproductive outcomes, an overview of the relationship between contraceptive hormonal profiles and psychiatric outcomes, and expanded information for practitioners providing contraceptive counseling to this population.
The researchers also considered the importance of considering polypharmacy when prescribing hormonal contraceptives, the likelihood of patient adherence, and consideration of the patient’s postpartum status. Current opinion in obstetrics and gynecology published the results of this review and the resulting clinical guidance.
Dr. Miller said: Physician Weekly (PW) For the application of clinical guidance in this review.
P.W.: Why did you feel there was a need to explore this topic and develop clinical guidance?
Dr. Miller: Mental health conditions are among the most common medical conditions affecting people of reproductive age in the United States. For health care providers caring for people with mental health conditions, it is important to understand contraceptive counseling and care to optimize mental health before pregnancy or to avoid unwanted pregnancy. There is currently an unmet mental health care need in the United States, and clinicians should understand the full range of contraceptive options, effectiveness, and safety when caring for women of reproductive age with mental health conditions. There is a need.
What were the most important findings from the review?
This review will inform clinicians about the epidemiology of reproductive health outcomes in people with mental health conditions, examine the impact of hormonal contraception on mental health, and provide counseling on contraception in specific mental health conditions. It is intended to provide considerations. Overall, available evidence indicates that hormonal contraceptives can be used safely among people with mental health conditions and those using certain antidepressants. Special consideration should be given to those at risk of poor compliance. People who use certain types of antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antiepileptic drugs. Those who are less than 6 weeks postpartum.
How can providers incorporate these guidelines into their practice?
I encourage clinicians who provide care to people of reproductive age to familiarize themselves with U.S. medical eligibility standards. This is a document to educate health care professionals about safe contraceptive methods for people with comorbidities and those taking certain medications. I encourage clinicians to use available resources to provide comprehensive reproductive health care and to understand that patients with mental health conditions are particularly vulnerable to adverse reproductive health outcomes. However, we recommend that you understand that prioritizing full-scope care for these patients is paramount.
