Practitioner views on Barriers to providing intrauterine contraception (coils) in General Practice?

What is it about?

This paper reports on a research project exploring practitioner (GP and nurse) views on the barriers to the provision of intrauterine contraception (contraceptive coils) in the UK through General Practices. The main findings were; There is difference between practitioner knowledge of eligibility for intrauterine contraception (IUC) and the likelihood of recommending IUC to the full range of possible patients. Practitioners' lack of knowledge about IUC acts as a barrier to recommending IUC in contraceptive consultations. Increased training in IUC counselling for practitioners who do not fit IUC could address barriers to recommending IUC and referring on to other services.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

Intrauterine contraceptive devices are an important part of the choice of contraception which should be available to women. Many of the barriers which we found could be addressed by targeted training and guidance for practice nurses, who are increasingly undertaking contraceptive consultations.