In this episode of The Good GP podcast, host Dr Karin Sekhon is joined by Dr Alison Creagh, a GP with a special interest in women's and sexual health. Dr Creagh shares her knowledge on the topic of emergency contraception, discussing its importance and available options.

They explain emergency contraception and its use in situations of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Dr Creagh outlines the three main options: two oral pills and the copper IUD. She highlights the copper IUD as the most effective method and addresses its limited accessibility and costs. For the oral pills, levonorgestrel and ulipristal, Dr Creagh explains their effectiveness, availability over-the-counter, and the potential side effects.

Discussing when to begin contraception after an emergency contraceptive method, considerations between the two pill options, and notable barriers to access in Australia. Dr Creagh emphasises the need for GPs to be informed about local resources and suggests patient resources to enhance understanding and access to emergency contraception.

Dr Creagh notes the importance of informing patients about emergency contraception, particularly for newly sexually active individuals and those using ongoing contraceptive methods. Which is essential for GPs looking to deepen their knowledge and improve patient care in the context of emergency contraception.

Link & Resources:

CLINICIANS: 

• Therapeutic Guidelines: https://www.tg.org.au/
• FSRH guidelines: https://www.fsrh.org/Public/Public/Standards-and-Guidelines.aspx?hkey=86c80484-36fe-4d6d-96c6-05cdc8e7b8da

PATIENTS: 

• SHQ Information Sheets: https://shq.org.au/resources/health-info/info-sheets/
• SHQ Emergency Contraception Information Sheet: https://shq.org.au/resources/health-info/info-sheets/emergency-contraception/

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