A 32-year-old woman with well-controlled epilepsy on phenytoin requests contraception. According to WHO Medical Eligibility Criteria, which method is categorized as MEC Category 1 (no restriction) for her?
- A Copper-T 380A IUD ✓
- B Combined oral contraceptive pills
- C Levonorgestrel-containing IUS
- D DMPA injectable contraceptive
Correct answer: A. Copper-T 380A IUD
Explanation
For women on enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs (phenytoin, carbamazepine), combined hormonal contraceptives and progestin-only pills are MEC Category 3 or 4 due to reduced efficacy. Copper-T IUD is MEC Category 1 as its efficacy is not affected by drug interactions. LNG-IUS and DMPA are Category 2.
Reference: WHO Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, 5th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.