CONTRACEPTIVE CARE OF THE OLDER PATIENT – THE END OF CONTRACEPTION (CONCLUSION)
In some instances the patient is reluctant to stop a method because of the noncontraceptive advantages it provides. If the woman finds the messiness of sex unpleasant she may prefer her partner to continue to use the sheath. It can be difficult to persuade some women to stop the Pill, especially if they have the not uncommon feeling that it is keeping them young in mind and body. Changing to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can usually overcome this problem. Yet other women feel that the method used is acting as a protection to their body.
In summary, doctors and nurses providing contraceptive care for this age group should have detailed knowledge of the range of methods that can be offered safely. There is also a need to be aware of the hidden agenda that can lie behind a request for contraceptive advice, or problems with a method that has previously been satisfactory. The particular difficulties that some people in this age group have in asking for help must be recognized by the provision of choice within the contraceptive service, and by training doctors and nurses to be able to pick up indirect clues that the patient may be in trouble. It is particularly important that any assumptions and prejudices about age and sexuality are recognized so that appropriate care can be given to each individual patient based on their own needs rather than the preconceived ideas of the doctor.
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