Unnecessary confusion about family planning after intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy.

BACKGROUND: As conceptions have changed regarding the suitability of oral contraceptives for women with a history of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), we studied whether the contraindications formerly in force had affected family planning decisions and mode of contraception among women with such a history.

STUDY DESIGN: ICP women and their controls who gave birth in 1969-1988 in Tampere University Hospital, Finland, were sent a questionnaire in 2010. The inquiry covered items concerning contraception, deliveries, menstruation and sex life.

RESULTS: ICP women had limited their number of children for health reasons more often than the controls. They also more often had a single child compared to the controls. The use of oral contraceptives was less common among ICP women. Deliveries were equally successful in both groups.

CONCLUSION: Physicians should provide sufficient and accurate information on ICP to the patients. Proper introduction of suitable contraception methods and successful communication with the patients would also reduce unnecessary problems and confusion regarding future family planning practices.