Final answer:
Women should consult their healthcare provider to determine how long to use contraception around the time of menopause, which typically concludes after one year without menstruation. The choice and duration of contraceptive method should be personalized, with consideration of individual health risks and the need for protection against unintended pregnancy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Contraception should be used around the time of menopause based on individual needs and the guidance of a healthcare provider. Since a woman is considered to have completed menopause after not menstruating for a full year, contraception is generally advised until a woman reaches the postmenopausal stage to avoid unintended pregnancy. Hormonal contraception methods like the implantable rod, which can be effective for up to 3 years, or hormonal therapy (HT) can alleviate menopausal symptoms but use should be closely monitored due to potential health risks.
Women are encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider to decide on the best method and duration of contraceptive use during their transition into menopause, keeping in mind the risks and benefits of each method. Special consideration must be given to the use of contraceptives containing estrogen and progestin after childbirth, with a recommended wait of three to six weeks depending on individual risk factors for blood clots.