FFPRHC Guidance (January 2005) Contraception for women aged over 40 years

Abstract

This Guidance provides information for clinicians and for women aged over 40 years considering the use of contraception. A key to the grades of recommendations, based on levels of evidence, is given at the end of this document. Details of the methods used by the Clinical Effectiveness Unit (CEU) in developing this Guidance and evidence tables summarising the research basis of the recommendations are available on the Faculty website (www.ffprhc.org.uk). Abbreviations (in alphabetical order) used include: BMD, bone mineral density; CEU, Clinical Effectiveness Unit; CI, confidence interval; COC, combined oral contraception; DMPA, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate; EE, ethinylestradiol; HPV, human papilloma virus; IUD, copper-bearing intrauterine contraceptive device; LNG-IUS, levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system; MI, myocardial infarction; OR, odds ratio; POC, progestogen-only contraception; POP, progestogen-only pill; RR, relative risk; STI, sexually transmitted infection; VTE, venous thromboembolism; WHO, World Health Organization; WHOMEC, WHO Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use; WHOSPR, WHO Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use.

Contraception During Perimenopause: Practical Guidance

“…If they do not resume their menses after 6 weeks, they can check their FSH levels twice, 1–2 months apart; if the levels are more than 30 IU/l both times, the contraception can be stopped. 100 A second option is to check FSH levels at the end of the 7-day placebo week twice, 6–8 weeks apart. If the FSH level is more than 30 IU/l both times, contraception can be discontinued ( Figure 3C ).…”