Birth Control Options
Authored by Terri Larkin, WHCNP on 12/20/2010
Authored by Terri Larkin
12/20/2010
Categories: Health News, MomDocs Online
Categories: Health News, MomDocs Online
Ever get tired of taking your birth control pill every day? Maybe, you should consider getting an IUD. IUD’s have changed, and are not the same product your mother told you about. IUD’s are shaped in the form of a T, and can be easily inserted and removed.
There are two types of IUD’s on the market. One type is the Mirena. People like the Mirena because it contains progestins, and many times women will stop having cycles while using this product. Sometimes, there is irregular break through bleeding that takes place the first 6-9 months, but then most of the time, women are period free. The Mirena works by stopping ovulation via progestins, making the uterus an unhappy place for fertilized eggs, and helping the body produce thicker cervical mucus that prevents sperm from getting into the uterus. Risks include infection and, rarely, perforation of the uterus with the insertion tool. This only happens 1 in 10,000 cases.
The other type is the Paragard. Women like the Paragard because it is hormone free. People don’t like the Paragard, because it can sometimes make your period a bit heavier and more painful. The Paragard works because it has copper in it, which affects sperm, preventing fertilization. This IUD has the same effects on the uterine lining and cervical mucus as the Mirena.
The ideal candidate will present on their period and have Cytotec prior to insertion. Cytotec is a medication that helps the cervix open for easier placement of the IUD. While it can cause some mild cramping, ibuprofen should not be taken, as this can work against the medication. However, ibuprofen is an excellent choice to take for the mild discomfort which occasionally follows insertion.
If your interested in a consultation regarding this form of birth control, come see us! We are happy to discuss both types of IUD’s to help you decide which product will work best for you, and answer any questions you may have about the process.
