Contraceptive Pearl: Coding for LARC Insertion & Removal

As of September 2014, HCPCS codes for removing and inserting IUDs and contraceptive implants have changed. Read the new codes in this Contraceptive Pearl.

Contraceptive Pearl: St. John’s Wort and Hormonal Contraception

Women who take St. John’s wort should consider using a barrier method along with oral contraceptive pills. Pill users who need medication for depression should consider something other than St. John’s wort. The possible interaction between St. John’s wort and oral contraceptives highlights the importance of asking patients about their use of health supplements.

Contraceptive Pearl: LARC for Teens

Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC) methods are a great option for people who want a method they don’t have to think about. This Contraceptive Pearl addresses LARC use, specifically for teens.

Contraceptive Pearl: Zika Virus and Reproductive Health

The Zika virus poses an international public health threat. A more vigorous and appropriate response to Zika should include full access to contraception, prenatal care, options counseling, abortion care, and pediatric developmental services. Read about the relation between the Zika virus and reproductive health in this Contraceptive Pearl.

Contraceptive Pearl: Oral Contraceptives and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Which oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are best for patients at risk for cardiovascular disease? Find out in this Contraceptive Pearl.

Contraceptive Pearl: Progestin IUD as Treatment for Menorrhagia

The progestin IUD is a safe and effective method of decreasing menstrual bleeding which spares future fertility and decreases costs.

Contraceptive Pearl: Implant Removal: Pop Out Technique

Implant removal can be significantly more difficult than insertion. This Contraceptive Pearl details the “pop-out” or “fingers only” implant removal technique, which requires less anesthesia and a smaller incision and causes less swelling than removal with instruments.

Contraceptive Pearl: Self-Administered Progestin Injection: Depo SubQ

This Contraceptive Pearl covers Depo SubQ, the version of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) that can be prescribed as a subcutaneous injection that patients give themselves at home. It contains about 30% less progestin than the in-office form, which may reduce some of Depo’s side effects.

Contraceptive Pearl: Reproductive Health Care for People with Physical Disabilities

People with physical disabilities often lack basic reproductive health care. This Contraceptive Pearl describes how providers can go beyond compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act towards full accessibility for patients with impaired mobility.

Contraceptive Pearl: Abnormal Pap Smears and Contraceptive Options

In this Contraceptive Pearl, options of contraception for women who have experienced abnormal pap smears are detailed.