Contraceptives Are Also Drugs

We report a patient who stated that contraceptives are not drugs. She presented with distressing symptoms of UTI following sexual activity and denied using any medication. Her physician prescribed co-amoxiclav based on her urine culture and sensitivity report, and the patient returned three days later with complete relief of symptoms but complained of vaginal bleeding. The patient then disclosed that her gynaecologist administered a contraceptive injection one month prior for endometriosis. When asked why she did not disclose this information at her previous visit, she responded, “that’s not a drug, it is a contraceptive.” It is essential to inquire from every woman of childbearing potential if she is currently using contraceptives to enhance patient care and for public health considerations.