The Medical journal of Australia
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The Australian-led 2023 International evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome was based on best available evidence, clinical expertise and consumer preference. It followed best practice, involved extensive evidence synthesis and applied relevant frameworks across evidence quality, feasibility, acceptability, cost and implementation. Thirty-nine societies and organisations covering 71 countries were engaged. The evidence in the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has generally improved in the past five years, but remains of low to moderate quality. The technical evidence report, 52 systematic reviews and analyses (approximately 6000 pages) underpin 77 evidence-based and 54 consensus recommendations, with 123 practice points. ⋯ The 2023 guideline is approved by the National Health and Medical Research Council and provides clinicians and patients with clear advice on best practice in a common and neglected condition, based on the best available evidence, expert multidisciplinary input and consumer preferences. It provides vital, extensive patient and provider resources to enhance evidence-based care. The full guideline is available at www.monash.edu/medicine/mchri/pcos/guideline.
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To explore Australian general practitioners' views and experiences of undertaking postpartum contraception counselling and provision during the 6-8-week postnatal check. ⋯ General practitioners are well placed to facilitate discussions about contraception with women who have recently given birth. Postpartum contraception care in general practice could be improved by better access to contraception training, appropriate remuneration for contraception procedures, greater multidisciplinary collaboration, and national postnatal check and postpartum contraception guidelines.
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To examine patterns in the dispensing of category X medications (Therapeutic Goods Administration categorisation system for prescribing medicines in pregnancy) to women aged 15-49 years in Australia during 2008-2021, and patterns of concurrent use of hormonal long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) and other hormonal contraception. ⋯ Concurrent use of highly effective hormonal contraception at the time of first dispensing of category X medications is low in Australia, raising concerns about potential fetal harms during unintended pregnancies. Awareness of the importance of hormonal contraception and its uptake by women prescribed category X medications should be increased.