Helping Continuing Users

  1. Ask how the client is doing with the method and whether she is satisfied. Ask if she has any questions or anything to discuss.

  2. Ask especially if she is concerned about bleeding changes. Give her any information or help that she needs (see Managing Any Problems).

  3. Ask if she often has problems remembering to take a pill every day. If so, discuss ways to remember, making up missed pills, and ECPs, or choosing another method. Adolescents may need extra support.

  4. Give her more pill packs—a full year’s supply (13 packs), if possible. Plan her next resupply visit before she will need more pills.

  5. Every year or so, check blood pressure if possible (see Medical Eligibility Criteria, Question 5).
  6. Ask a long-term client if she has had any new health problems since her last visit. Address problems as appropriate. See new health problems that may require switching methods.

  7. Ask a long-term client about major life changes that may affect her needs—particularly plans for having children and STI/HIV risk. Follow up as needed.