The choice of a contraceptive method is a complex decision; medical providers have an important role in providing information and supporting patients’ decision making about contraceptive methods through contraceptive counseling. In this topic, we will review the goals of quality contraceptive counseling, review different approaches to this counseling and their relationship to health equity, and provide a step-by-step guide to providing high-quality, patient-centered counseling. Information specific to each contraceptive method is presented in detail separately.
In this topic, we will use the term “women” to describe those who use female contraceptive methods. However, we recognize that not all people capable of pregnancy identify as women, and we encourage the reader to consider the specific counseling needs of transgender men. Clinicians should ask all patients who identify as male about their contraceptive needs as well
GOALS
In broad strokes, the provision of family planning care is designed to help individuals achieve their reproductive goals. However, data suggest that family planning care should not have a singular focus of preventing unintended pregnancy, as this is not consistent with all patients’ preferences or necessary to optimize health outcomes. Rather, providers can focus on helping women and men reach their desired reproductive outcomes by supporting them to make informed decisions about their fertility and contraceptive use that are aligned with their preferences and reproductive goals
