DECISION TO USE CONTRACEPTION (GENERAL INFORMATION)

The decision to use contraception or to have a baby always involves ambivalent feelings, which are often based on unconscious factors. It is essential for the doctor to get ‘enmeshed’ with the patient during the consultation. Understanding of what is happening inside the patient can then be obtained and shared. She can then take more conscious control and make more sensible decisions for herself. Whatever the age of the woman or the couple, and in whatever setting the contraceptive advice is being given, these matters will have to be considered if the patient is to receive adequate care.

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