It may not sound romantic but it is important to celebrate Valentine’s Day safely, with no unwanted STDs or unplanned pregnancies. If you or your partner have multiple partners and they are male, always make sure they use a condom, and if monogamous still use birth control. There are so many convenient options to suit your lifestyle, including oral contraception, patch, ring, or IUDs. Make an appointment with your Women’s Health gynecologist to see which is right for you.

The post Valentine’s Day Romance appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

Diagnostic hysteroscopy is a procedure that lets your doctor examine the inside of your uterus. A tool called a hysteroscope is used. This device is a thin tube that’s illuminated. It is placed into the vagina to provide a closer look at potential problems. It can also be used to confirm test results or as part of other procedures, like a laparoscopy.

What Happens During a Hysteroscopy?

This procedure can sometimes be done with local anesthesia in the doctor’s office if it is intended for diagnosis only. Otherwise, general anesthesia is required. After the patient is ready, the hysteroscope is inserted using a solution of sugar and salt that distends the uterus. This allows the doctor to see the uterine cavity. After visual inspection, the doctor may insert different instruments depending on the reason for the procedure.

Most patients recover quickly after undergoing a hysteroscopy. They are usually able to return home the same day. There’s no wound and pain is minimal, so there’s no risk of infection or serious discomfort.

What Procedures Can Include a Hysteroscopy?

A gynecologist may use a hysteroscopy when diagnosing abnormal bleeding. It can also be used to locate polyps or fibroids. Other conditions may call for this procedure as well, including:

• Removal of scarring (intrauterine adhesions)
• Removal of cervical or endometrial polyps
• Removal of fibroids
• Endometrial lining biopsy
• Removal of intrauterine contraceptive device
• Endometrial ablation

If you are experiencing abnormal bleeding or have other concerns, make an appointment with your Women’s Health OB/GYN. They can determine the best diagnostics and treatment plan for you and your condition.

The post What Is a Diagnostic Hysteroscopy? appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

A photo of a newborn baby holding his mother’s intrauterine device (IUD) has been making its way around the internet. The photograph was staged by the mother as a joke (no, the baby was not born with the IUD in his hand). This brings up questions about how much most adults know about IUDs and their effectiveness as birth control.

What are IUDs?

An IUD is a small T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus. Multiple types are available, each working a little differently.

• Mirena IUD

This IUD, the same type seen in the baby photo, releases low levels of progestin levonorgestrel over a five year period to stop pregnancy.

• ParaGard IUD

The ParaGard IUD is also known as the Copper T 380A. It is made of plastic wrapped in copper. This allows it to release small quantities of copper over 10 years to prevent pregnancy.

• Skyla IUD

Skyla is a mini IUD that’s similar to the Mirena model. This one works over a three year period.

• Kyleena IUD

The Kyleena IUD is the same size as Skyla but contains more progestin. It works for up to five years.

Benefits of Using IUDs for Birth Control

IUDs are very effective as birth control for several reasons. When properly implanted, the device can be over 99% effective. Other benefits include:

• IUDs are convenient and require no pills
• Hormonal IUDs can reduce the side effects of periods
• IUDs are reversible, so no permanent decision has to be made
• Available in non-hormonal copper version
• Copper IUD works as emergency birth control for up to 120 hours after intercourse

Risks of Using IUDs

IUDs do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. There is a low risk of perforation and embedding. Some women also experience side effects from the hormones in the Mirena IUD.

To learn more about IUD’s and to find the best birth control option(s) for you and your lifestyle, make an appointment with your Women’s Health and Menopause Center OBGYN.

The post Intrauterine Device (IUD) Benefits & Risks appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

• Birth Control Implant

A thin rod is implanted in the body to release hormones to stop pregnancy. This method is about 99% effective.

• Birth Control Patch

The patch is worn on the upper arm, belly, back, or buttock and must be replaced weekly for a period of three weeks. There is a one week break before the cycle begins again. This method is 91% effective.

• Birth Control Shot

The Depo-Provera shot must be administered once per three months. It’s convenient and reported to be 94% effective.

• Vaginal Ring

The vaginal ring is a small flexible ring placed in the body to release hormones. It’s safe, affordable, and around 91% effective.

• Breastfeeding

Regular breastfeeding stops ovulation. Some women use this as birth control during the first six months after having a baby. This method is 98% effective during this time-period.

• Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An IUD is a T-shaped birth control device placed in the uterus. It can work for many years and requires no other maintenance. The average IUD is around 99% effective.

• Diaphragm

The diaphragm is a bendable cup placed in the vagina that covers the cervix. This method is 88% effective.

• Female Condom

The female condom works much like a male condom, however instead of going on the penis it is placed inside the vagina. This method is 79% effective.

• Female Sterilization

Female sterilization, also known as “getting your tubes tied,” involves a surgical procedure with permanent results. This method is 99% effective.

• Male Sterilization

Also known as a vasectomy, this birth control method involves a surgical procedure that prevents sperm from leaving the body. Just like the female version, it is permanent and 99% effective.

Find the Best Contraception for You

The best birth control method will depend on your situation and future family plans. Some questions that are important to think about when determining which contraceptive method is suitable for you:

• Do you ever want to have/have more children?
• Do you need a contraception that also protects you from STDs?
• Is cost a factor?
• What is your age?
• Have you been diagnosed with an illness and/or take medication(s)?

Talk to your Women’s Health and Menopause Center obstetrician/gynecologist to discuss the best option(s) for you and your lifestyle to find a birth control solution that works for you. Make an appointment today!

The post Contraception Methods Available Today appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.