Patient education and understanding: a critical review.

In the United Kingdom, family planning services are readily available to all women, regardless of economic status. Oral contraceptives play an important role in this effort, yet studies suggest that many patients still do not understand how to use these agents appropriately. Specifically, poor patient compliance is much more prevalent than initially thought. Factors influencing compliance in UK populations include age, socioeconomic group, education, side effects, packaging, and health care delivery. In order for these medications to be effective among various female populations, there is a need for greater emphasis on patient education about oral contraception. Several possible approaches are discussed.