Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 6

Now that you have completed this study session, you can assess how well you have achieved its Learning Outcomes by answering these questions. Write your answers in your Study Diary and discuss them with your Tutor at the next Study Support Meeting. You can check your answers with the Notes on the Self-Assessment Questions at the end of this Module.

SAQ 6.1 (tests Learning Outcome 6.1)

What kind of contraceptive method is good for lactating (breastfeeding) women?

Answer

While non-hormonal methods are better, DMPA and other progesterone-only contraceptives would be the next best choice for lactating women. If the mother is not fully breastfeeding, or if menstruation has resumed, DMPA or a progesterone-only pill can be started as early as six weeks after delivery.

SAQ 6.2 (tests Learning Outcomes 6.1 and 6.2)

Match the correct protective period with each of the hormonal injectables and contraceptive implants.

Using the following two lists, match each numbered item with the correct letter.

  1. 3 months

  2. 2 months

  3. 5–7 years

  4. 5 years

  5. 3 years

  6. 5 years

  • a.Implanon

  • b.DMPA

  • c.Jadelle

  • d.Sino-implant

  • e.Norplant

  • f.Noristerat

The correct answers are:
  • 1 = b
  • 2 = f
  • 3 = e
  • 4 = c
  • 5 = a
  • 6 = d

SAQ 6.3 (tests Learning Outcome 6.3)

How long does it take to become pregnant after the implants are removed? Why?

Answer

Women who stop using contraceptive implants can get pregnant as quickly as if they had stopped a non-hormonal contraceptive method. This is because contraceptive implants do not delay the return of fertility once they have been removed.

SAQ 6.4 (tests Learning Outcomes 6.1 and 6.2)

How do progesterone-only contraceptive injectables and implants prevent the occurrence of pregnancy?

Answer

Progesterone-only contraceptives prevent the occurrence of pregnancy because they:

  • stop the ovaries from releasing an egg each month
  • thicken mucus in the cervix, which prevents sperm cell entry to the uterine cavity
  • thin the endometrium of the uterus, making it difficult for the fertilised egg to be implanted.

SAQ 6.5 (tests Learning Outcome 6.1)

Describe the best times to start DMPA to prevent pregnancy.

Answer

The best times to start DMPA to prevent pregnancy are:

  • During the first seven days after menstrual bleeding begins.
  • 6 weeks after childbirth, or at any time once menstruation returns, ensuring that the woman is not pregnant.
  • After childbirth if the mother is not breastfeeding.
  • Immediately, or in the seventh day after miscarriage or abortion.
  • Immediately after stopping another method.

SAQ 6.6 (tests Learning Outcomes 6.2 and 6.3)

W/ro Marta had her Implanon inserted three months ago. She complains that she has been having irregular bleeding since insertion and wants to know what can be done to stop it. Aside from the spotting, she is happy about the method.

Why has she developed this side effect?

How can you help her manage it?

Answer

Menstrual irregularity, or inter-menstrual bleeding, or total absence of menstruation (amenorrhoea) are common side effects of Implanon caused by hormonal imbalance, specifically by excess progesterone in the woman’s body. In the absence of infection, reassure W/ro Marta that her bleeding pattern is very common and is normal, particularly during the first three to six months following insertion. If the bleeding is unacceptably high, refer her for further investigation and management to the nearest health centre or hospital.

SAQ 6.7 (tests Learning Outcome 6.4)

What are the most important infection prevention precautions you should take when doing any invasive procedure?

Answer

These are the most important infection prevention precautions:

  • Wash your hands using water and ordinary soap.
  • Wear protective barriers such as gloves.
  • Use antiseptic prior to insertion/injection.
  • Discard all disposable materials into a safety box.

Summary of Study Session 6