Contraceptive agents contraindications

As discussed later in this chapter, contraindications exist for various forms of contraception. Patients must be evaluated completely by a health care professional to rule out any medical contraindications to certain contraceptives. The physical examination also will allow health care professionals to determine if there are other medical concerns, such as hypertension, diabetes, or liver disease, that need to be considered when determining the appropriate contraceptive agent. Clinicians also should review family history for potential risks with certain forms of birth control. 

These agents are contraindicated in women of childbearing age, unless they are using adequate contraceptive measures, because of uncertain abortifacient effects. They have been used as illegal abortifacients in some countries (47). 

Other relative contraindications should be considered on an individual basis, including migraine headaches, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obstructive jaundice of pregnancy or prior oral contraceptive use, and gallbladder disease. If elective surgery is planned, many physicians discontinue oral contraceptives for several weeks to minimize the possibility of thromboembolism. These agents should be used with care in women with prior gestational diabetes or uterine fibroids low-dose pills are preferred in such cases. 

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