Clinical Practice Resources
This information is provided to assist in the clinical care aspects of unintended pregnancy and abortion care. Clinicians are encouraged to discuss post-abortion contraception options, as well as screening for STIs.
Abortion Medication Information
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MS Health Product Information
This link takes you to product and medicine information sheets for both health practitioners and consumers, such as MS-2 Step medication, mifepristone, misoprostol and ulipristal acetate.
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The use of Mifepristone for Medical Abortion
A statement developed and reviewed by the Women’s Health Committee and approved by the RANZCOG Board and Council.
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Guideline for the prophylactic use of Rh D immunoglobulin in pregnancy care
The Guideline was developed by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) and the National Blood Authority (NBA). Published 28 May 2021.
Pregnancy Options and Abortion Counselling
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Supporting Pregnant Women
This link takes you to helpful principles and guidance for a woman-centred conversation, practical skills, and a set of suggested questions that the health practitioner can use when a woman comes for her appointment. (Source: Children by Choice)
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The Framework: Counseling for Patient-Centered Abortion Care
This resource is intended to teach person-centred pregnancy decision counselling in patient scenarios that often prove challenging. Healthcare providers, including physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, counsellors, or clinic staff, often lack the training, language, or techniques to guide patients to self-directed decisions.(Source: Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health)
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Post-Abortion Counselling Services
Search on 1800 My Options for local counselling services by using the link provided and clicking on 'other services' and selecting 'counselling' in the filter section. Some providers are not listed on the online portal so please call 1800 My Options (1800 696 784) to obtain a full list of services available in your area.
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Pregnancy Counselling Rebates
Rebates are available for three non-directive pregnancy support counselling services per patient per pregnancy, for persons who are currently pregnant or have been pregnant in the preceding 12 months.
Contraception
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Contraception: An Australian Clinical Practice Handbook
This book is an essential resource for practitioners working in reproductive health. It is clinically focused, contains the most up-to-date evidence and information about contraception, and is informed by leading clinicians in the field. The handbook can be purchased online via the link provided. (Source: Family Planning NSW, Family Planning VIC, True QLD)
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Straight to the Point; Talking IUC
Step-by-step guidance to addressing concerns with intrauterine contraception. (Source: The Global INTRA Group)
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FSRH Guideline: Quick starting contraception
This guideline from the Faculty of Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare (FSRH) is intended for use by health practitioners providing contraception in any setting within the UK. It is also widely used by clinicians in Australia.
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UK Medical Eligibility Criteria for contraceptive use
This document offers guidance to providers of contraception regarding who can use contraceptive methods safely. The recommendations do not indicate a best method for a patient nor do they take into account efficacy. Also widely used by clinicians in Australia. Also available via the same link is a Hormonal and Intrauterine Contraception summary table. (Source: Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare (FSRH)
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Australian Medicines Handbook
Australian Medicines Handbook is an evidence-based independent medicines reference used by clinicians in the Australian healthcare sector. It includes concise and extensive information and comparative drug data that allows clinicians to compare drugs and apply the information to their clinical practice. Subscription can be purchased online via the link provided. (Source: RACGP, PSA, ASCEPT)
STI Guidelines
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Guidelines for STI Testing and Treatment
The Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC) has clinical treatment guidelines, an STI tool, and latest information about STI testing and treatment.
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STI/BBV Testing Tool for Asymptomatic People
South Australian Sexual Health Awareness (SASHA) provides charts and information about how routine STI/BBV testing can be offered to asymptomatic people, and how to follow up.