Introduction

Hormonal contraceptives have been available for use since the 1960s, with their importance now undeniable, thanks to their treatment and prevention of various gynecological diseases. The development of hormonal contraceptives has involved the implementation of a wide range of contraceptives, different dosages, combinations and forms of administration. In order to advise on the safety of the prescription of these drugs in special situations, the WHO launched a guide known as the “WHO Eligibility Criteria for the use of hormonal contraceptives”.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate knowledge among gynecology and obstetrics residents according to the WHO guidelines.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was administered to gynecology and obstetrics medical residents at two hospitals in Goiânia, with one hospital philanthropic and the other pertaining to the Goiás State Department of Health. A questionnaire was administered featuring epidemiological and technical questions on the indications and contraindications associated with the use of certain contraceptive methods in special conditions, such as headache, hypertension, smoking, thromboembolism, arterial thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. A univariate analysis was performed, with the data organized into frequency tables.

Results

The questionnaires were completed by 33 residents with a mean age of 29.2, with 61% revealed to have received adequate training on contraception and 63% feeling able to prescribe hormonal contraceptive methods. Residents in the final two years felt safer (82.4%) than the newcomer resident group and those in the first year (75%), however a significant difference was not recorded.

Conclusion

The number of years students had been resident was not enough to significantly improve knowledge on the WHO Eligibility Criteria, in our comparison between residents in the initial and final stages of the course, despite tallying safer prescription.

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