Original research article Valuable safeguard or unnecessary burden? Characterization of physician consultations for oral contraceptive use in Mexico City

Context: Given the safety and efficacy of oral contraceptives (OCs), many health professionals believe that these should be widely available over-the-counter (OTC). Opponents of OTC availability argue that without a physician’s consultation, women will not be properly screened and will not use OCs correctly, thereby compromising safety and efficacy. However, little is known about the content or quality of physicians’ consultations. Methods: Trained simulated patients (SPs) attended 45 appointments with Mexico City public and private physicians to request a prescription for OCs. Immediately following each appointment, the SPs filled out a checklist regarding the information provided and examinations performed by physicians. Results: Both public and private physicians asked a few questions and provided little information regarding screening, pill-taking instructions, side effect information and warning sign information. Despite the fact that all SPs were appropriate OC candidates, women were denied a prescription in seven (15.6%) appointments mostly because of their age (regarded as either too old or too young). Conclusion: In general, Mexican physicians are not providing women thorough information and screening in OC consultations, calling into question the assumption that a physician’s appointment is necessary for or will ensure safe, proper OC use.