The World Health Organization (WHO) developed the Medical Eligibility Criteria (MEC) which can help to determine if a woman can take a particular oral contraceptive if she has an underlying health condition.
Code
Restrictions
Response
MEC 1
no restriction
MEC 2
benefits outweigh risks
Monitor the patient for any changes that may increase risk.
MEC 3
relative contraindication
Consider referring the patient to a specialist. Consider an alternative contraceptive with less risk.
MEC 4
absolute contraindication
Do not use the contraceptive. Select an alternative method.
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