UK Medical Eligibility Criteria

• Categorises the risks of starting different methods of contraception in different individuals
• There are 4 levels, from least risk to most risk:
  • UKMEC 1: no restriction in use (minimal risk)
  • UKMEC 2: benefits generally outweigh the risks
  • UKMEC 3: risks generally outweigh the benefits
  • UKMEC 4: unacceptable risk (typically this means the method is contraindicated)

Classification

Hormonal methods

• Combined pill, ring, patch, 'mini pill'
• DMPA injection/sayana press and contraceptive implant (Nexplanon)

Barrier methods

• Male and female condoms
• Diaphragm or cervical cap (plus spermicide)

Interuterine methods

• Interuterine device (copper 'coil' - IUD)
• Interuterine system (hormone 'coil' - IUS)

Permanent methods

• Sterilisation

Fertility awareness methods

• Basal temperature, calendar and cervical secretion monitoring methods

Emergency methods

• Emergency IUD - most effective
• Emergency contraception pills