Question 1

What is the UKMEC calculator used for?

Accepted Answer

The UKMEC calculator is a contraception eligibility tool that helps assess which contraceptive methods may be suitable based on individual medical conditions and characteristics. It uses the UK Medical Eligibility Criteria developed by the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare (FSRH) to categorise the safety of different contraceptive methods.

Question 2

Who should use the UK Medical Eligibility Criteria for contraceptive decisions?

Accepted Answer

The UKMEC contraception checker is designed for UK healthcare professionals including GPs, nurses, and clinicians working in family planning. Informed patients can also use this educational tool to understand contraceptive eligibility criteria, but should always discuss results with a qualified healthcare professional before making contraceptive decisions.

Question 3

What do UKMEC categories 1, 2, 3, and 4 mean?

Accepted Answer

The UKMEC contraceptive risk categories are: Category 1 – no restriction (method can be used); Category 2 – advantages generally outweigh risks; Category 3 – risks usually outweigh advantages (requires expert clinical judgement); Category 4 – unacceptable health risk (method should not be used). These categories help clinicians assess contraceptive safety for individuals with specific medical conditions.

Question 4

Can I use the UKMEC calculator instead of seeing a doctor?

Accepted Answer

No. This UKMEC calculator is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. While it provides guidance based on FSRH UKMEC criteria, only a qualified healthcare professional can provide personalised contraceptive advice considering your full medical history, preferences, and individual circumstances.

Question 5

What is the difference between initiation and continuation in UKMEC?

Accepted Answer

In the UK Medical Eligibility Criteria, initiation refers to starting a new contraceptive method, while continuation applies when a medical condition develops whilst already using a method. UKMEC categories may differ between initiation and continuation.

Question 6

How accurate is this UKMEC calculator?

Accepted Answer

This contraceptive eligibility calculator is based on the FSRH UK Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use (2016 with amendments). While it reflects published UKMEC guidance, it is a simplified educational tool. Clinical decisions should always be made by healthcare professionals who can consider the full clinical picture.

Question 7

Does the UKMEC guidance apply outside the UK?

Accepted Answer

UKMEC is specifically designed for UK practice and is based on FSRH guidance. Other countries have similar frameworks – the WHO provides Medical Eligibility Criteria (WHO MEC) used internationally.

Question 8

What does UKMEC Category 3 mean for combined hormonal contraception?

Accepted Answer

UKMEC Category 3 means the theoretical or proven risks of using combined hormonal contraception usually outweigh the advantages for that individual. Use requires expert clinical judgement, careful counselling, and close monitoring. Alternative methods should be discussed.

Question 9

What are UKMEC Category 4 contraindications for the combined pill?

Accepted Answer

UKMEC Category 4 represents unacceptable health risk. Category 4 contraindications for combined hormonal contraception include: migraine with aura, current or history of VTE, smoking aged 35 or over, blood pressure ≥160/≥100 mmHg, current breast cancer, ischaemic heart disease, stroke, and complicated valvular heart disease.

Question 10

Can I use the progestogen-only pill if I have migraines?

Accepted Answer

Progestogen-only pill eligibility for women with migraines depends on the type. According to UKMEC, migraine without aura is Category 2 for POP use. Migraine with aura is also Category 2 for POP, unlike combined hormonal contraception where it is Category 4.

Question 11

What contraception is safe for women with diabetes?

Accepted Answer

For uncomplicated diabetes, most methods including the implant, IUD, LNG-IUS, POP, and DMPA are UKMEC Category 2. Combined hormonal contraception is Category 2 for uncomplicated diabetes but Category 3-4 if diabetes has vascular complications. Intrauterine contraception and implants are often recommended as first-line options.

Question 12

Is the contraceptive implant suitable during breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the contraceptive implant is generally suitable for breastfeeding women. According to UKMEC, the implant is Category 2 for women who are less than 6 weeks postpartum and breastfeeding, and Category 1 after 6 weeks. Progestogen-only methods like the implant do not affect milk production.

Question 13

Can smokers use combined hormonal contraception?

Accepted Answer

Women under 35 who smoke can generally use combined hormonal contraception (Category 2-3). Women aged 35 or over who smoke are Category 4 for CHC (unacceptable risk) due to increased cardiovascular risk. Alternative methods like the progestogen-only pill, implant, IUD, or LNG-IUS are recommended for smokers.

Question 14

What contraception is recommended for women with obesity?

Accepted Answer

For women with BMI 30-34, combined hormonal contraception is Category 3. For BMI ≥35, CHC is Category 3-4. The Cu-IUD, LNG-IUS, and implant remain Category 1 regardless of BMI, making intrauterine contraception highly suitable. Weight does not reduce contraceptive effectiveness of IUDs and implants.

Question 15

Does liver disease affect which contraception I can use?

Accepted Answer

Active viral hepatitis, decompensated cirrhosis, and liver tumours are Category 4 for combined hormonal contraception and Category 3 for progestogen-only methods. The copper IUD is generally Category 1 for all liver conditions as it is non-hormonal, making it the preferred option.

Question 16

How often is the FSRH UKMEC guidance updated?

Accepted Answer

The FSRH UKMEC guidance is reviewed and updated periodically to reflect new evidence. The main UK Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use was published in 2016, with amendments and updates issued as needed. Healthcare professionals should regularly check the FSRH website for the latest guidance.

Calculators

UKMEC Calculator UK (2026) – UK Medical Eligibility Criteria

Rent Affordability Calculator UK 2026