Contraception in the patient with liver disease.

Selection of a method of contraception in patients with liver disease can be complicated. Tubal ligation should be considered in the setting of chronic liver disease for those patients who have completed families. Multiple reversible methods of contraception are currently available but may affect hepatic disease. Estrogen-containing contraceptive methods are contraindicated in patients with acute liver disease. Progestin contraceptives appear to be safe and multiple delivery systems are available. With rare exception, barrier methods and the intrauterine device may be offered as alternative methods.