Don’t require a pelvic exam or other physical exam to prescribe oral contraceptive medications.

Don’t require a pelvic exam or other physical exam to prescribe oral contraceptive medications.

Type of practice

Other tests

Age

Adult

Topic Area

Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Perinatal Medicine

Hormonal contraceptives are safe, effective and well-tolerated for most women. Data do not support the necessity of performing a pelvic or breast examination to prescribe oral contraceptive medications. Hormonal contraception can be safely provided on the basis of medical history and blood pressure measurement

Sources

1. Stewart FH, Harper CC, Ellertson CE, Grimes DA, Sawaya GF, Trussell J. Clinical breast and pelvic examination requirements for hormonal contraception: current practice vs evidence. JAMA 2001 May 2; 285(17): 2232-9.
2. Henderson JT, Sawaya GF, Blum M, Stratton L, Harper CC. Pelvic examinations and access to oral hormonal contraception. Obstet Gynecol, 2010 Dec; 116(6): 1257-64.
3. Committee on Gynecologic Practice. Committee opinion no. 534: well-woman visit. Obstet Gynecol. 2012 Aug; 120(2Pt1): 421-4.

Attention. Please note that these items are provided only for information and are not intended as a substitute for consultation with a clinician. Patients with any specific questions about the items on this list or their individual situation should consult their clinician.