Oral contraception during lactation: a global survey of physician practice
Strauss, L.T.; Speckhard, M.; Rochat, R.W.; Senanayake, P.
International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics 19(3): 169-175
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0020-7292 DOI: 10.1016/0020-7292(81)90058-8Document Number: 385845
The use of combined estrogen-progestogen oral contraceptives (EP-OC) by lactating women has been associated with suppression of lactation. To determine the extent to which physicians prescribe combined EP-OC for lactating women, the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) and the United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC) collaborated in a global mail survey of 3697 physicians affiliated with Family Planning Associations (FPA) in 72 countries. Usable responses were received from 831 physicians (22%) in 65 countries. The percent of clinicians who provide EP-OC to lactating women was higher in developing regions (63% or more) than in developed regions (40% or less). Patient preference was rated important more often than any other factor in the decision to prescribe EP-OC for lactating women. The percentage of clinicians who reported complaints of decreased milk production from women using EP-OC was higher (32% or more) in developing regions where breast milk is often essential to infant nutrition.