Prescribing oral contraceptives for women older than 35 years of age

Ann Intern Med. 2003 Jan 7;138(1):54-64. doi: 10.7326/0003-4819-138-1-200301070-00013.

Abstract

This paper addresses the use of combined oral contraceptives in women older than 35 years of age, including the potential risks and benefits, pretreatment assessment, common side effects and their management, appropriate follow-up, and diagnosis of menopause. The case-based discussion also focuses on issues that pertain to women who smoke, have hypertension, or have dyslipidemia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Blood Pressure / physiology
  • Contraceptives, Oral, Combined* / adverse effects
  • Contraceptives, Oral, Combined* / therapeutic use
  • Contraindications
  • Diagnostic Tests, Routine
  • Drug Prescriptions*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperlipidemias / complications
  • Menopause / physiology
  • Middle Aged
  • Physical Examination
  • Risk Factors
  • Smoking / adverse effects

Substances

  • Contraceptives, Oral, Combined