Noncontraceptive benefits of oral contraceptive agents. Patients should know the positive effects.

Physicians' role as teachers and counselors includes the responsibility to provide detailed and accurate information on the risks and benefits of therapy whenever a prescription is written. Inaccurate or overly negative communication, particularly from the mass media, may confuse patients trying to make an informed decision regarding use of oral contraceptives. Patients have the right to be informed of possible prevention of life-threatening disease and improvement of quality of life as a result of oral contraceptive therapy.