Complete
Women's Care, & Medical Spa 230
East Evergreen Street |
IUD (Intrauterine Device)An IUD is a device that is inserted into the uterus and serves to protect the woman against pregnancy. An IUD does not protect against sexually-transmitted diseases so is not usually used in women who are not in long-term relationships. There are only 2 types of IUDs currently available in the USA: the hormonal and the copper. The most commonly used IUD in our clinic is the copper ParaGard-T. This is a T-shaped device that fits snugly into the uterus and lasts 10 years. It contains no hormones so there are no hormonal side-effects. It can be used in women in whom other types of contraceptives are contraindicated because of certain medical problems. For more information about this product, please visit. http://www.paragardiud.com Throughout the world, the IUD is a very popular choice for birth control, but women in the USA are more afraid of IUDs because of some problems with a particular type in the 1970s. That IUD has been taken off of the market, newer designs are available, and doctors are much more selective in the patients in which they choose to place IUDs. IUDs work in different ways. The hormonal IUD releases a small amount of a hormone called progestin into the uterus which makes the cervical mucus unfavorable to the sperm. It also causes the lining of the uterus to become thinner. The copper IUD releases a small amount of copper into the uterus but does not affect ovulation or hormones. A reaction occurs inside that does not allow the egg to be fertilized or attach to the lining of the uterus. Copper works almost like a spermicide. Your doctor must insert and remove the IUD. First, an examination is needed to determine the size and shape of your uterus and to make sure there are no infections present. You may not be a candidate for an IUD if you have:
Our clinic requires the patient to read and sign a consent form before the IUD is inserted. Make sure that you read the information carefully and ask Dr. Strobel any questions that you may have. Dr. Strobel prefers to insert the IUD during the latter part of the menstrual period so it is important for you to notify her nurse when you start your period. No anesthesia is required, although you will most likely experience some cramping during and immediately after the procedure. Dr. Strobel usually suggests that you take naproxen or ibuprofen about 30 minutes prior to the procedure. It is important that the patient check the IUD monthly for placement. The doctor will explain to you how this is done. The string of the IUD hangs out of the cervix. You will be able to feel this at the top of the vagina with your finger. The string will not bother you, and your partner should not be bothered by the string either. If you ever are not able to locate the string, it is important to notify your doctor as the IUD may have slipped out of place. You should use another form of birth control until the IUD is checked. There are some possible complications that can occur with an IUD. The IUD can slip out of place, perforate the uterus, become infected or cause severe pain or bleeding. Pregnancy can also rarely occur with an IUD and may lead to an ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, miscarriage, or even preterm birth. If you think you are pregnant and have an IUD in place, it is important to contact your doctor immediately to discuss your options. Side effects of the IUD are also possible. Some women experience a change in their menstrual cycles. Vaginal discharge may occur. Some women have cramping and spotting after the IUD is inserted. If these symptoms persist for over one month, you should contact your doctor. You should also contact your doctor if you experience any of the following:
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Complete
Women's Care
230 E EvergreenStreet, Sherman, Texas 75090 |
