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BMC Women's Health
Published in: BMC Women's Health 1/2015

Open Access 01-12-2015 | Research article

Observational, prospective, multicentre study to evaluate the effects of counselling on the choice of combined hormonal contraceptives in Italy—the ECOS (Educational COunselling effectS) study

Authors: Alessandro Gambera, Fedela Corda, Rosetta Papa, Carlo Bastianelli, Sandra Bucciantini, Salvatore Dessole, Pasquale Scagliola, Nadia Bernardini, Daniela de Feo, Fabiola Beligotti

Published in: BMC Women's Health | Issue 1/2015

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Abstract

Background

Adequate counselling on contraceptive methods can help users choose the most appropriate method. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of structured counselling provided by gynaecologists on selection of a combined hormonal contraception method.

Methods

Women aged 18–40 years (n = 1871) who were considering the use of a combined hormonal contraception method (pill, transdermal patch or vaginal ring) underwent a structured counselling session in which gynaecologists provided comprehensive information. Pre- and post-counselling questionnaires on combined hormonal contraception choice were completed by participants.

Results

After counselling, many women (38 %) selected a combined hormonal contraception method that was different from the originally intended one. Preferences for the transdermal patch approximately doubled (from 3.2 % pre-counselling to 7 %; p < 0.0001) and those for the vaginal ring increased four-fold (from 5.2 to 21.2 %; p < 0.0001), while preference for the pill remained unchanged (from 64.5 % [pre-] to 64.1 % [post-counselling]). The proportion of undecided women decreased from 18 to 2.1 % (p < 0.0001). The main reasons for choosing a method were related to ease of use (all methods), and preferences for administration frequency (daily, weekly or monthly). The number of patients requiring post-counselling contact with the physician’s office was low (5.1–6.9 %), as was the incidence of adverse events (1.8–3.1 %).

Conclusions

Counselling has a significant impact on women’s choice of combined hormonal contraception and encourages them to consider alternative methods to combined oral contraceptives. Moreover, it also enables women to use their chosen method with confidence.

Trial registration

NCT01181778, Trial registration date: August 12, 2010
Appendix
Available only for authorised users
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Metadata
Title
Observational, prospective, multicentre study to evaluate the effects of counselling on the choice of combined hormonal contraceptives in Italy—the ECOS (Educational COunselling effectS) study
Authors
Alessandro Gambera
Fedela Corda
Rosetta Papa
Carlo Bastianelli
Sandra Bucciantini
Salvatore Dessole
Pasquale Scagliola
Nadia Bernardini
Daniela de Feo
Fabiola Beligotti
Publication date
01-12-2015
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Women's Health / Issue 1/2015
Electronic ISSN: 1472-6874
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-015-0226-x

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