| UKMEC Category | Definition of category |
|---|---|
| 1 | A condition for which there is no restriction for the use of the method |
| 2 | A condition where the advantages of using the method generally outweigh the theoretical or proven risks |
| 3 | A condition where the theoretical or proven risks usually outweigh the advantages of using the method. The provision of a method requires expert clinical judgement and/or referral to a specialist contraceptive provider, since use of the method is not usually recommended unless other more appropriate methods are not available or not acceptable |
| 4 | A condition which represents an unacceptable health risk if the method is used |