Can You Have PCOS Without Knowing It?
PCOS can quietly disrupt your health without obvious warning signs. It’s wise to partner with a women’s health specialist to take a closer look at what your body may be telling you.
Women’s health experts in Atlanta and Alpharetta, GA: should you get an IUD?
Women’s health experts can help determine if an IUD is right for you
A women’s health expert, in Atlanta and Alpharetta GA, can be there for you if a friend has recently spoken with you about her IUD and is recommending that you get one as well. Maybe you have had a few too many close calls with a broken condom that ruined the moment. Or perhaps you would like the alternative of a reversible, effective, and hormone-free method of birth control.
Whatever your reasons are, you are making a good choice. IUDs are 99% effective; this makes them one of the most reliable birth controls available.
The flexible and tiny device eliminates the chance of human error, such as a missed pill, and can change the way sperm cells move so they will not have the opportunity to reach an egg.
Types of IUDs
IUDs are available in two different varieties: hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonal IUDs use different progestin levels, which is a synthetic form of the progesterone hormone, to prevent any pregnancies. Progestin is used to thicken cervical mucus to make it harder for sperm to swim to the egg, thins the uterine lining, and partially suppresses ovulation, so there is sometimes no egg to be fertilized.
A non-hormonal IUD releases copper to bathe the uterus lining; this creates an inflammatory reaction that is toxic to sperm.
Who should have an IUD?
An IUD is an excellent choice for women, including teenagers and women who have not been pregnant before. More importantly, an IUD will not lead to any pregnancy problems in the future.
It can also work for women within the final 5 to 10 years before they enter into menopause. When experiencing menopause, periods can sometimes become more cumbersome and painful. The use of certain IUDs can help ease the transition into menopause by decreasing menstrual pain and flow.
Are there any risks or side effects?
It is not uncommon to feel some backaches and cramping for a few hours or even days after getting an IUD, so your doctor may recommend that you take it easy once you get back home. Heating pads can help with the discomfort.
Some have experienced spotting after having an IUD, but this can go away within three to six months.
A flow change during your period can happen with a copper IUD; you may experience a heavier flow than usual. You can possibly experience menstrual cramps that are worse than usual as well.
How will a women’s health expert in Atlanta and Alpharetta, GA insert an IUD?
Your women’s health expert will insert an IUD at their office. This is similar to your routine Pap smear examination; they will place your feet into stirrups, then a tool called a speculum will be used to make the cervix visible. Then a tube that contains the IUD will be placed into the uterus; then, the IUD is pushed out into the uterus from the tube. For easy removal in the future, there will be strings attached to the IUD’s base that remain outside of the cervix.
Contact your top Alpharetta and Atlanta OBGYN for your obstetrics and gynecology care.
You Might Also Enjoy...
6 Tips for Women With Gestational Diabetes
Without proper management, gestational diabetes can impact your baby’s long-term health. Fortunately, with professional guidance and some diet and lifestyle tweaks, most women with gestational diabetes have a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
STI Cases Continue to Rise: Who Should Get Tested and When?
From common infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea to more serious conditions like HIV and syphilis, the increasing uptick of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is a growing health concern. Knowing who should get testing and when is key.
Breast Cancer Genes 101: Who, How, and When to Get Tested
Finding breast cancer before it spreads is crucial. Take action during Breast Cancer Awareness Month by discussing your risk factors and testing with a women’s health provider to protect yourself now and in the future.
When Should You Worry About Abnormal Bleeding?
Unexpected bleeding can be alarming, especially when it disrupts your daily life or signals an underlying health issue. Understanding what’s considered abnormal bleeding and when to seek medical advice is essential for maintaining your well-being.
Facts and Myths About Treating Menopausal Symptoms With Hormone Replacement Therapy
Don’t let the myths surrounding hormone replacement therapy prevent you from exploring your options to find relief for menopausal symptoms. Get the facts so you can make the decision that’s best for you.