Contraception and Family Planning Practice Questions

Q: Which one of the following is NOT an emergency contraception method?

Norplant. ***Norplant*** - **Norplant** is a brand name for a **subdermal implant** that provides long-term contraception (up to 5 years) and is not used as an emergency method. - Its mechanism involves the continuous release of a progestin, thereby inhibiting ovulation and thickening cervical mucus over an extended period. *Levonorgestrel* - **Levonorgestrel** is a common and effective form of **emergency contraception**, taken as a single dose or two doses within 72-120 hours of unprotected intercourse. - It works primarily by inhibiting or delaying **ovulation** and preventing fertilization, not by inducing abortion. *Intra uterine contraceptive device* - The **copper intrauterine device (IUD)** is the most effective method of emergency contraception, effective up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse. - It primarily prevents implantation by causing a **spermicidal inflammatory reaction** within the uterus. *High dose oral contraceptive pill* - High-dose **combined oral contraceptive pills** ("Yuzpe method") can be used as emergency contraception, taken in two doses 12 hours apart within 72 hours of unprotected sex. - This method utilizes the **estrogen and progestin** in the pills to prevent ovulation and fertilization.

Q: Which one of the following clinical situations is NOT ideal to perform female sterilization procedure?

During active pelvic inflammatory disease. ***During active pelvic inflammatory disease*** - **Active infection** increases surgical risks, complications, and may worsen the existing **pelvic inflammatory disease**. - Standard medical practice requires **treating the infection first** before performing elective procedures like sterilization. *Postmenstrual period* - This is an **ideal time** for sterilization as the uterus is **atrophic** and there is high certainty that the woman is not pregnant. - The **risk of pregnancy** is minimal, and the procedure can be performed with greater safety and efficacy. *Concurrent with MTP* - Performing sterilization concurrently with **medical termination of pregnancy (MTP)** is **standard practice** and often advisable. - This approach ensures the woman is not pregnant and provides convenient **permanent contraception** without requiring an additional surgical procedure. *7 days postpartum* - The **immediate postpartum period** is an excellent time for female sterilization due to the enlarged uterus being easily palpated and **fallopian tubes** being readily accessible. - The woman is usually secure in her decision, and this timing allows for **one hospital stay** for both delivery and sterilization.

Q: Which of the following is an absolute contraindication for use of oral contraceptive pills?

Focal Migraine. ***Focal Migraine*** - A **focal migraine**, especially with aura, significantly increases the risk of **ischemic stroke** in women using combined oral contraceptives. - Due to the heightened risk of **thrombosis** associated with oral contraceptives, a history of focal migraine is considered an **absolute contraindication** (WHO MEC Category 4). *Epilepsy* - Epilepsy is generally not an absolute contraindication for oral contraceptive pills, though some **antiepileptic drugs** can reduce contraceptive efficacy due to **enzyme induction**. - Adjustments in contraceptive methods may be needed, but the condition itself does not make OCPs absolutely unsafe. *Bronchial Asthma* - Bronchial asthma is **not a contraindication** to the use of oral contraceptive pills. - There is no known interaction or increased risk of adverse events between OCPs and asthma. *Smoking* - **Smoking** in women **aged ≥35 years who smoke ≥15 cigarettes/day** is an **absolute contraindication** (WHO MEC Category 4) due to significantly increased risk of **cardiovascular events** including myocardial infarction and stroke. - In younger women or lighter smokers, it represents a **relative contraindication** (WHO MEC Category 2-3). - In the context of this question, **focal migraine** is the correct answer as it is an absolute contraindication regardless of age or severity, whereas smoking becomes absolute only in specific circumstances.

Q: Which of the following are absolute contraindications of Combined Oral Contraceptive (COCs)? 1. Arterial or venous thrombosis history 2. Severe hypertension 3. Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia 4. Diabetes with vascular complications

1, 2 and 4. ***1, 2 and 4*** - A history of **arterial or venous thrombosis** (e.g., deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, myocardial infarction) is an absolute contraindication due to the increased risk of clotting associated with estrogen in COCs. - **Severe hypertension** (systolic ≥160 mmHg or diastolic ≥100 mmHg) is a contraindication because COCs can exacerbate blood pressure control and increase the risk of cardiovascular events. - **Diabetes with vascular complications** (e.g., nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy, macrovascular disease) indicates advanced microvascular or macrovascular disease, making COCs unsafe due to increased cardiovascular risk. *1, 3 and 4* - While a history of **arterial or venous thrombosis** and **diabetes with vascular complications** are absolute contraindications, **gestational trophoblastic neoplasia** itself is generally not an absolute contraindication to COCs once the disease is in remission or resolved. - The primary concern with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia is avoiding pregnancy during the monitoring period, for which COCs can be used, although other methods may be preferred. *2, 3 and 4* - **Severe hypertension** and **diabetes with vascular complications** are absolute contraindications, but **gestational trophoblastic neoplasia** is not. - The use of COCs in gestational trophoblastic neoplasia is generally considered acceptable after successful treatment and during the follow-up period to prevent pregnancy. *1, 2 and 3* - **Arterial or venous thrombosis history** and **severe hypertension** are absolute contraindications. - However, **gestational trophoblastic neoplasia** is not an absolute contraindication for COCs once the patient has been successfully treated and is being monitored.

Q: During Pomeroy’s method of female sterilization, which portion of tube is ligated?

Isthmo-ampullary. ***Isthmo-ampullary*** - In **Pomeroy's method** of female sterilization, a loop of fallopian tube is picked up at the **isthmo-ampullary junction** (junction of middle and outer third of the tube). - This mid-portion of the tube is elevated into a knuckle, ligated at its base with absorbable suture, and the loop above the ligature is excised. - The **isthmo-ampullary junction** is the classic site described in standard texts for Pomeroy's technique, as it provides adequate length for creating a loop while maintaining sufficient distance from the uterine cornua. *Isthmus* - While the isthmus may be partially involved in the loop, **Pomeroy's method specifically targets the isthmo-ampullary junction**, not the pure isthmic segment. - Ligation of the isthmus alone (too close to the uterus) would not be the standard Pomeroy's technique and could increase risk of complications. *Cornual* - The **cornual portion** refers to the interstitial part of the fallopian tube located within the uterine wall. - This segment is not targeted in Pomeroy's method due to increased risk of uterine injury and bleeding. - Cornual resection is a different surgical approach used in other sterilization techniques. *Ampullary* - The **ampulla** is the wider, lateral portion of the fallopian tube where fertilization typically occurs. - While the ampulla may form part of the loop in Pomeroy's method, the **ligation point** is specifically at the isthmo-ampullary junction, not in the pure ampullary segment. - Ligation too far laterally in the ampulla would not be standard Pomeroy's technique.

Q: Which one of the following is the most suitable situation for prescribing progestin only pill?

Lactating mother. ***Lactating mother*** - Progestin-only pills (POPs) are preferred for **breastfeeding mothers** as they do not affect **milk supply** or composition, unlike combined oral contraceptives containing estrogen. - They also eliminate the risk of estrogen exposure to the infant, which is generally avoided during **lactation**. *Young patients* - While young patients can use POPs, there isn't a specific indication making them "most suitable" compared to other contraceptive methods. - Often, combined oral contraceptives are also an appropriate choice for young patients, depending on their individual health profile. *Emergency contraception* - Progestin-only pills are a type of contraception, but they are not the primary or most effective form of **emergency contraception**; dedicated high-dose progestin pills (like levonorgestrel) or copper IUDs are used for this purpose. - Regular POPs are designed for daily use and are not formulated for a single, high-dose emergency contraceptive effect. *Woman with unexplained vaginal bleeding* - **Unexplained vaginal bleeding** is a **contraindication** for starting any hormonal contraceptive, including POPs, until the cause is identified. - It is crucial to rule out serious conditions like **endometrial cancer** or other gynecological pathologies before initiating hormonal therapy.

Q: The highest incidence of ectopic pregnancy amongst contraceptive users is observed with:

Progestasert intrauterine device. ***Progestasert intrauterine device*** - The **Progestasert IUD** (progesterone-releasing) has the **highest failure rate** among IUDs (2-3% per year), meaning more pregnancies occur in users. - When pregnancy does occur with Progestasert, approximately **5-6% are ectopic**, and due to the higher overall failure rate, this results in the **highest absolute incidence** of ectopic pregnancy among contraceptive users. - The progesterone released locally is less effective at preventing pregnancy compared to copper or levonorgestrel-releasing devices. - **Key concept**: The question asks about "highest incidence" (absolute rate among all users), not the highest proportion among pregnancies that occur. *Copper T intrauterine contraceptive device* - While the **proportion** of pregnancies that are ectopic is relatively high with Copper T (3-4% of pregnancies that occur are ectopic), the **absolute incidence** is lower. - Copper T has a very low failure rate (<1% per year), so fewer total pregnancies occur, resulting in fewer ectopic pregnancies overall among users. - Highly effective at preventing intrauterine implantation but not ovulation. *Levonorgestrel intrauterine system* - The **levonorgestrel IUS** has the **lowest failure rate** among IUDs (0.1-0.2% per year). - It suppresses ovulation in some users, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the endometrium. - Results in the **lowest absolute incidence** of ectopic pregnancy due to excellent contraceptive efficacy. *Combined contraceptive pills* - Highly effective at preventing pregnancy by **inhibiting ovulation**. - Very low incidence of ectopic pregnancy because ovulation is suppressed in most users. - When taken correctly, overall pregnancy rates are very low (0.3% per year with perfect use).

Q: Laparoscopic sterilization is not recommended during the period of:

Immediate post partum. ***Immediate post partum*** - The **uterus** is significantly enlarged and **hypervascular** in the immediate postpartum period, increasing the risk of **hemorrhage** and organ injury during laparoscopic sterilization. - The **bowel can be dilated and edematous**, making visualization and manipulation difficult, further complicating the procedure. *Post menstrual* - This period is generally considered **safe and even ideal** for sterilization procedures as the risk of pregnancy is minimal and the uterus is small. - The **uterine size** is at its baseline, which facilitates easier access and manipulation during laparoscopy. *Post first trimester MTP* - This period is considered a suitable time for sterilization, as the **uterus is still relatively small**, and the risks associated with the procedure are low. - It allows for the patient to combine two procedures, thereby reducing the need for multiple hospital visits. *Interval* - The **interval period** (any time not immediately postpartum or post-abortion) is the **most common and often most recommended time** for sterilization. - At this time, the **uterus is non-gravid**, at its baseline size, and easily accessible, leading to a lower risk of complications.

Q: Female sterilization is contraindicated in which of the following well-controlled conditions?

None of the above. ***None of the above*** - **Well-controlled** chronic conditions like diabetes mellitus, heart disease, or hypertension generally do **not contraindicate female sterilization** according to WHO Medical Eligibility Criteria (MEC). - Sterilization is a **permanent contraception method** that is often the most appropriate option for women with stable medical conditions who have completed their families. - The key principle is that these conditions must be **well-controlled** and stable at the time of the procedure. *Diabetes mellitus* - **Well-controlled diabetes** is WHO MEC Category 1-2 (no restriction or advantages generally outweigh risks) for female sterilization. - Women with **poorly controlled diabetes** should have their condition optimized before surgery to minimize perioperative risks, but this is not an absolute contraindication. - The risks of pregnancy in diabetic women typically exceed the minimal surgical risks of sterilization. *Heart disease* - **Well-managed stable heart disease** does not preclude female sterilization, though cardiac function should be assessed pre-operatively. - Most stable cardiac conditions are WHO MEC Category 2-3, with individualized assessment based on functional status. - For women with significant heart disease, avoiding pregnancy (which carries substantial cardiovascular burden) is often more important than avoiding a brief surgical procedure. *Hypertension* - **Controlled hypertension** is WHO MEC Category 1-2 for female sterilization and is not a contraindication. - Blood pressure should be optimized before surgery, and anesthetic management adjusted accordingly. - The cardiovascular stress of pregnancy far exceeds that of a sterilization procedure in hypertensive women.

Q: Absolute contraindication for the use of OCPs is:

Thromboembolism. ***Thromboembolism*** - A **current or past history of thromboembolism** (e.g., DVT, pulmonary embolism) is an **absolute contraindication (WHO MEC Category 4)** for combined oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) due to the significantly increased risk of recurrent thrombotic events. - Exogenous **estrogen** in OCPs increases the synthesis of clotting factors (II, VII, IX, X, fibrinogen) and decreases anticoagulant proteins (protein S, antithrombin), thereby promoting a hypercoagulable state. - Even a remote history of VTE makes OCPs absolutely contraindicated. *Diabetes* - Diabetes **with vascular complications** (retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy) or diabetes of >20 years duration is a contraindication (WHO MEC Category 3/4). - However, **uncomplicated diabetes without vascular disease** is not an absolute contraindication for OCPs. - Among the options listed, thromboembolism is the clearest absolute contraindication. *Epilepsy* - Epilepsy itself is **not a contraindication** for OCPs (WHO MEC Category 1). - However, some **enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs** (phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, topiramate) can reduce OCP efficacy by increasing hepatic metabolism of contraceptive hormones. - In such cases, higher-dose OCPs, alternative methods, or non-enzyme-inducing AEDs should be considered. *Hypertension* - **Severe or uncontrolled hypertension** (≥160/100 mmHg) or hypertension with vascular disease is an absolute contraindication (WHO MEC Category 4). - **Adequately controlled and monitored hypertension** is a relative contraindication (WHO MEC Category 3), not an absolute one. - Among the given options, thromboembolism represents a clearer and more universally accepted absolute contraindication.

Question 1

Which one of the following is NOT an emergency contraception method?

Accepted Answer

Norplant

Answer

Levenorgestrel

Answer

Intra uterine contraceptive device

Answer

High dose oral contraceptive pill

Question 2

Which one of the following clinical situations is NOT ideal to perform female sterilization procedure?

Accepted Answer

During active pelvic inflammatory disease

Answer

Postmenstrual period

Answer

Concurrent with MTP

Answer

7 days postpartum

Question 3

Which of the following is an absolute contraindication for use of oral contraceptive pills?

Accepted Answer

Focal Migraine

Answer

Epilepsy

Answer

Bronchial Asthma

Answer

Smoking

Question 4

Which of the following are absolute contraindications of Combined Oral Contraceptive (COCs)?

1. Arterial or venous thrombosis history
2. Severe hypertension
3. Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia
4. Diabetes with vascular complications

Accepted Answer

1, 2 and 4

Answer

1, 3 and 4

Answer

2, 3 and 4

Answer

1, 2 and 3

Question 5

During Pomeroy’s method of female sterilization, which portion of tube is ligated?

Accepted Answer

Isthmo-ampullary

Answer

Cornual

Answer

Ampullary

Answer

Isthmus

Question 6

Which one of the following is the most suitable situation for prescribing progestin only pill?

Accepted Answer

Lactating mother

Answer

Young patients

Answer

Emergency contraception

Answer

Woman with unexplained vaginal bleeding

Question 7

The highest incidence of ectopic pregnancy amongst contraceptive users is observed with:

Accepted Answer

Progestasert intrauterine device

Answer

Combined contraceptive pills

Answer

Levonorgestrel intrauterine system

Answer

Copper T intrauterine contraceptive device

Question 8

Laparoscopic sterilization is not recommended during the period of:

Accepted Answer

Immediate post partum

Answer

Post menstrual

Answer

Interval

Answer

Post first trimester MTP

Question 9

Female sterilization is contraindicated in which of the following well-controlled conditions?

Accepted Answer

None of the above

Answer

Diabetes mellitus

Answer

Heart disease

Answer

Hypertension

Question 10

Absolute contraindication for the use of OCPs is:

Accepted Answer

Thromboembolism

Answer

Diabetes

Answer

Epilepsy

Answer

Hypertension

Contraception and Family Planning — MCQs

Contraception and Family Planning — MCQs

On this page

Practice by Chapter

Want unlimited practice?