A 30-year-old woman with a complete hydatidiform mole undergoes suction evacuation. Her serum β-hCG normalizes by the 8th post-evacuation week. According to current FIGO guidelines, for how long should she be advised to use effective contraception before attempting the next pregnancy?
- A 3 months
- B 6 months ✓
- C 12 months
- D 18 months
Correct answer: B. 6 months
Explanation
Current FIGO and standard obstetric guidelines recommend 6 months of effective contraception after serum β-hCG normalizes following evacuation of a complete hydatidiform mole. This interval allows clear distinction between a rising hCG due to persistent gestational trophoblastic neoplasia versus a new intrauterine pregnancy. Earlier recommendations of 12 months have been revised to 6 months in modern practice.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.