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Contraception - Management
What follow-up arrangements are needed for a women using the combined contraceptive vaginal ring?
- Review the woman no longer than 3 months after she starts to use the combined contraceptive vaginal ring, to ensure correct use and that there are no problems.
- Check that the woman is using the ring correctly and consistently.
- Check her knowledge of what to do if she is late removing the ring or late reinserting a new ring.
- Remind her about possible drug interactions.
- Check her blood pressure.
- Ask about headaches, especially migraine, and any new risk factors — see UK Medical Eligibility Criteria.
- Address any issues or problems she might have, such as unscheduled bleeding.
- Depending on the woman's wishes and anticipated use of the ring, repeat scripts may be arranged for up to a year following this. Note: due to the shelf life of the ring, it is recommended that women are supplied with up to 3 rings at a time, and each ring should be inserted within 4 months of the date of dispensing.
- Women with specific medical conditions including an observed rise in blood pressure using the ring may need more frequent follow-up.
- Advise the woman that she should return at any time if she has any problems, including any new headache symptoms.
In depth
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