14 - Contraception in the50-somethings

Summary

The woman presenting for contraceptive advice in her 50s is in a different position to younger women. Although the peri-menopause is a stage of life when a woman has lowered fertility, the consequences of an unplanned pregnancy are serious, and contraception is still important, particularly when the additional associated non-contraceptive benefits of hormonal use are considered. A woman in her 50s, or during the menopause transition, may need her contraceptive options re-evaluated. The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) is one of the long-acting reversible methods of contraception (LARC) which has the benefit of being highly effective whilst requiring minimal compliance once inserted by a trained practitioner. Women in their 50s requesting contraception often have additional needs, particularly regarding the management of menopausal symptoms. Consultations such as this offer the opportunity to provide balanced information regarding contraception, management of the menopause, relationship issues and erectile dysfunction (ED).