A Survey of Adult and Pediatric Cardiology Fellows on Training Received in Family Planning Counseling

Abstract

Background:

This 2016 study aimed to investigate the training in contraception and preconception counseling received by cardiovascular science fellows.

Method:

The authors surveyed current adult and pediatric cardiology fellows in the United States. Questions assessed the availability of family planning counseling training within their training program, current practices of contraception and preconception counseling, and use of available tools for risk stratification of patients. Bivariate logistic regressions were utilized to predict demographic variables associated with survey responses, and associations between hours of training or perceived preparedness and clinical use of training.

Results:

There were 101 survey responses. Most participating fellows disagreed that their fellowship training had prepared them to counsel patients on contraception (69%) and preconception planning (62%). Sixty-one percent of participants do not routinely discuss contraception options and 55% do not routinely discuss preconception counseling with reproductive-age female patients at routine visits. Having more than 1 hour of training was predictive of more consistent counseling for both contraception and preconception counseling. Approximately 40% of participants routinely refer patients to an OB/Gyn for contraception or preconception counseling.

Conclusion:

This study highlights the need for increased training in contraceptive and preconception counseling within adult and pediatric cardiology fellowship programs.