Contraceptive method selection, counseling, and complication recognition scenarios tested on USMLE Step 2 CK.
35 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What is the primary mechanism of action of combined oral contraceptives (COCs)?
- Suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis to prevent ovulation (blocks the LH surge).
- Which category of reversible contraception has the lowest typical-use failure rates?
- Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC): IUDs and the subdermal implant.
- What is the mechanism of action of the copper IUD?
- Copper ions are toxic to sperm and ova and cause a local inflammatory reaction, preventing fertilization.
- How long is a copper IUD approved to remain in place?
- Up to 10 to 12 years.
- What is the single most effective method of emergency contraception?
- Placement of a copper IUD.
- Within how many days after unprotected intercourse can a copper IUD be placed for emergency contraception?
- Up to 5 days (120 hours).
- What is the mechanism of levonorgestrel emergency contraception?
- It delays or inhibits ovulation by suppressing the LH surge.
- Within how many hours after intercourse is levonorgestrel emergency contraception FDA-labeled to be taken?
- Within 72 hours.
- What is the mechanism of action of ulipristal acetate as emergency contraception?
- It is a selective progesterone receptor modulator that delays ovulation.
- Up to how many hours after intercourse is ulipristal acetate effective for emergency contraception?
- Up to 120 hours (5 days).
- A prior history of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an absolute contraindication to which type of contraceptive?
- Estrogen-containing (combined hormonal) contraceptives.
- By what mechanism does estrogen in combined hormonal contraceptives raise thrombosis risk?
- It increases hepatic synthesis of clotting factors, producing a hypercoagulable state.
- Migraine with aura is an absolute contraindication to which type of contraceptive, due to stroke risk?
- Estrogen-containing (combined hormonal) contraceptives.
- Why are combined hormonal contraceptives contraindicated in smokers over age 35?
- Markedly increased risk of venous thromboembolism and cardiovascular events.
- What is the key counseling point about timing for the progestin-only pill?
- It must be taken at the same time every day, within about a 3-hour window.