PREVALENCE OF COMBINED ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE USE AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG WOMEN AGED 40 YEARS AND OLDER ATTENDING THE GYNECOLOGY DEPARTMENT AT TU DU HOSPITAL

Vũ Thục Hiền Lê, Hồng Hoa Nguyễn, Thanh Trúc Đăng

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Abstract

Background: Although women aged 40 and older still require contraception, combined oral contraceptives (COCs) use at this age must be carefully considered due to increased cardiovascular and thrombotic risks. Understanding current COCs use in this group helps guide safe and effective contraceptive counseling. Objective: To determine the prevalence of COCs use among women aged 40 years and older attending gynecological clinics at Tu Du Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 312 women at Tu Du Hospital was conducted from November 2024 to May 2025. Results: The prevalence of COCs use among women aged ≥ 40 at Tu Du Hospital was 11.2%. Two factors were significantly associated with COCs use in this age group: having an educational level of high school or below (p<0,05), and the source of contraceptive information (p<0,05). Conclusion: Combined oral contraceptive use remains present among women aged 40 and older, often without adequate medical counseling. The study recommends enhancing individualized counseling to ensure safe and effective use in this age group.

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References

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