What follow-up is recommended for patients who choose a non-hormonal contraceptive method?

Follow-up for patients choosing non-hormonal contraceptive methods should primarily focus on ensuring correct use, addressing any concerns, and screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as appropriate.

Patients should be advised to get tested for STIs 2 weeks after any unprotected sexual intercourse (UPSI) to detect newly acquired infections, and again at 12 weeks post-UPSI to allow time for antibody development for infections such as syphilis or HIV.

Unlike hormonal methods, routine follow-up visits specifically for adverse effects or method checks are not routinely mandated for non-hormonal methods, but patients should be encouraged to return at any time if they experience problems or have concerns about their contraception.

Healthcare providers should ensure that patients have received comprehensive information about the method's correct use, efficacy, and any potential risks or limitations at the time of initiation.

For barrier methods, sterilization, or natural family planning, additional assessments may be required depending on the method chosen, and suitability should be checked using the World Health Organization Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use.

Overall, follow-up is patient-led unless clinical concerns arise, with emphasis on STI screening and support for method adherence and troubleshooting.

This approach aligns with NICE guidance on contraception assessment and follow-up, which highlights the importance of STI testing after UPSI and follow-up within 3 months for hormonal contraception but does not specify routine follow-up for non-hormonal methods unless needed.