Contraceptive provision in genitourinary medicine clinics in the UK

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess current and future contraceptive provision in genitourinary (GU) medicine clinics in the United Kingdom. Questionnaires were sent to 18 British Co-Operative Clinical Group regional representatives for distribution to clinical leads. Of 185 clinics, 124 (67%) responded. All clinics provided condoms, 116 (94%) the 'morning after' pill and 31 (25%) would fit an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) for emergency contraception. Twenty-three (18.5%) regarded their clinic as already providing a comprehensive service and most of these could provide a wide range of contraceptive methods. Of all clinics, which included eight (34%) clinics already providing a comprehensive service, 69 (56%) anticipated developing their contraceptive provision within the next five years. In conclusion, contraceptive provision varies between clinics. A reduction in unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) would most likely be achieved if clinics expanded their provision of contraceptive services.