The Women's Health – Family Planning 2 course is structured into three detailed units to enhance practitioners’ knowledge and competence in advanced family planning topics.
Unit 1: Contraception
This unit delves into the various contraceptive options, focusing on the efficacy, benefits, and potential risks of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), including implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs). Participants will learn to assess patient suitability based on medical history, lifestyle, and preferences. The unit also discusses the Quick Start method for initiating contraception and strategies for managing side effects such as irregular bleeding patterns, ensuring a patient-centred approach to family planning.
Unit 2: Prescribing Contraception in Adolescents
Addressing the unique challenges of adolescent care, this unit focuses on assessing competency, obtaining informed consent, and navigating legal frameworks like Gillick competence. It highlights the importance of confidentiality, ethical considerations, and mandatory reporting obligations when treating younger patients. The unit emphasises empowering adolescents to make informed decisions about their reproductive health in a safe and supportive environment.
Unit 3: Termination of Pregnancy
This unit provides a comprehensive overview of medical and surgical termination of pregnancy (TOP), covering procedures, legal regulations, and patient care pathways across different Australian states and territories. It includes pre-termination assessment protocols, risk management for complications, and post-termination follow-up care. Practitioners will also learn how to counsel patients on pregnancy options, contraception after termination, and the ethical implications of conscientious objection.
By completing this course, participants will gain the confidence and expertise to provide advanced family planning services, supporting women and adolescents in making informed, safe, and personalised reproductive health decisions.
All degree qualified medical practitioners.