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These Standards are recommended for organisations providing contraceptive/sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, including pregnancy planning, pregnancy choices, abortion, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as well as sexual wellbeing and health promotion.

The above committees have agreed that Clinical Effectiveness Unit Guidance on use of contraceptives is guidance on “common practice” and “current practice” in the use of these medicines and devices. Therefore it is recommended that it may not be necessary for clinicians to document every occasion when a contraceptive preparation is prescribed outside the product licence if such use falls within current guidance issued by the Faculty’s Clinical Effectiveness Unit.

It has always been a professional responsibility to provide the highest standard of care within the community. However, recently, doctors within the United Kingdom are expected to be able to demonstrate their fitness to practice within clinical governance and revalidation. In line with other professional groups and particularly in line with the Colleges and Faculties with whom we work - the RCOG, the RCGP and the Faculty of Public Health Medicine - it is important for us to demonstrate the elements of maintaining good medical practice within our specialist areas.