Procedures

The contraceptive implant is a popular, long-acting, reversible form of birth control. This device that’s the size of a matchstick is inserted under your skin in your upper arm and steadily releases progestin hormones to prevent pregnancy for as long as five years.

If you’re considering contraceptive implants, it’s essential to understand the range of benefits they offer.

Highly Effective at Preventing Pregnancy

One significant benefit of the contraceptive implant is its incredible effectiveness in helping you avoid pregnancy. It’s considered one of the best reversible birth control methods.

The implant is over 99% effective, meaning fewer than 10 out of 1,000 women using it will get pregnant in a year. Permanent options such as tubal ligation are the only birth control methods more effective than implants.

Long-Lasting Contraception

Another advantage of the contraceptive implant is its long duration of pregnancy protection. Once inserted, it prevents conception for three to five years, depending on the specific brand.

Nexplanon, the only implant currently available in the US, protects against pregnancy for up to three years. This means that after a quick insertion, you’re covered for years without having to think about other forms of birth control.

Reversible

One great thing about the contraceptive implant is that it’s reversible. If you want children or it’s no longer the right method, your doctor can remove the device. Fertility returns to normal right away after implant removal.

This reversibility gives you flexibility. You can use the implant for however long you want contraception, whether that’s a few months or several years. It doesn’t affect your fertility over the long term if you decide to have it taken out.

Low Maintenance

Continuing with the theme of convenience, the contraceptive implant is one of the lowest maintenance types of birth control you can get. Once inserted, there is no need to do anything until it’s time for removal and replacement three to five years later.

You don’t have to take a pill at the same time daily or make frequent pharmacy runs for refills. The implant’s “set it and forget it” nature makes staying protected incredibly easy. You can go about your life without contraception constantly on your mind.

Private

Unlike barrier methods such as condoms, the contraceptive implant allows private birth control. Partners do not need to be involved in any aspect of the process.

The implant is discreet once inserted, and you don’t have to discuss it with a partner if you don’t want to. You have complete control over starting or stopping the implant at any time.

Estrogen-Free

Hormonal contraceptives such as pills, rings, or patches contain estrogen in addition to progestin. The implant only uses the hormone progestin and is estrogen-free.

This makes it a great option to avoid the potential cardiovascular effects of estrogen, such as the increased risk of blood clots. The lack of estrogen may also be preferred if you experience adverse side effects from that hormone.

Quick Return to Fertility

When you’re ready to try for pregnancy, the contraceptive implant can be removed, and fertility returns immediately. Some methods can delay your ability to conceive for months after stopping.

There is no waiting period with the contraceptive implant. You can start trying for a baby right after removal with no effects on conception speed.

Relieves Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful condition wherein tissue similar to the uterine lining will grow outside the uterus. It afflicts over 6.5 million women in the US.

The contraceptive implant may ease endometriosis symptoms such as pelvic pain, cramping, and heavy periods. The steady progestin supply may reduce or eliminate periods, limiting menstrual bleeding that exacerbates discomfort.

Reduces Menstrual Cramps

In addition to easing cramps from endometriosis, contraceptive implants may lessen menstrual cramping. Implants minimize the uterine lining buildup that contributes to intense, painful cramping before periods.

For many users, periods also become lighter or stop entirely after getting the implant. This reduces or eliminates the discomfort and hassle of heavy, crampy periods.

Lowers Anemia Risk

The implant’s effects on menstrual bleeding may provide another useful benefit. Heavy, prolonged periods can sometimes lead to iron deficiency anemia when red blood cell counts drop too low.

The progestin in the implant thins the uterine lining and often reduces menstrual flow. In many cases, periods become lighter or stop completely within one to three months of starting the implant.

This drop in bleeding decreases the chances of developing anemia due to monthly iron loss. Lighter menstruation helps maintain adequate iron levels and protects against fatigue and other symptoms of anemia.

Get Expert Guidance on Contraceptive Implants from Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness

The contraceptive implant offers multiple advantages as a hassle-free, long-acting, and highly effective birth control method. It provides pregnancy prevention you don’t have to think about daily while retaining the flexibility of reversibility.

For expert guidance on the contraceptive implant and other birth control methods, turn to the knowledgeable team at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness. We can help you choose the contraception that suits your reproductive health goals and lifestyle.

Contact us today at (919) 636-6670 or schedule an appointment online to learn more about the many benefits of the contraceptive implant.

If the vaginal ring interests you for birth control, a common question is: how long does it last? The vaginal ring is a piece of flexible plastic in the shape of a ring that you insert into your vagina, where it releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.

There are two options currently available – NuvaRing and Annovera. Both contain similar hormones but have different lifespans. NuvaRing lasts about one month, while Annovera is effective for a full year. Understanding how to use them properly ensures you get maximum effectiveness.

Let’s look at how long each vaginal ring remains active to see if this method is a good fit.

NuvaRing Duration

NuvaRing is a monthly vaginal ring. Each ring lasts up to five weeks but is intended for only one menstrual cycle. Here’s how to use NuvaRing:

• Position a new ring in your vagina and keep it there for three consecutive weeks.
• After three weeks, take it out on the same day of the week you inserted it.
• Take a seven-day break from NuvaRing.You’ll get your period during this break.
• At the end of the seven-day break, insert a new NuvaRing to start your next four-week cycle.

In short, you use each NuvaRing for three weeks and go without for one week. After your ring-free week, you must put in a new ring. NuvaRing is only effective for one cycle -don’t try to extend use longer than recommended.

Annovera Duration

Annovera is a vaginal ring lasting a full year or 13 cycles. It’s the first ring you don’t need to replace every month.

Here is how to use Annovera:

• Put the ring into your vagina, where you will keep it for three straight weeks.
• Once three weeks have passed, take it out on the same day you put it in.
• Take a week-long break from the ring to get your period.
• Following your seven-day ring-free break, insert the same Annovera ring to start your next three weeks.
• Continue using this ring for one complete year by repeating steps 1-4.

The key difference between NuvaRing and Annovera is that the same Annovera ring can be used for an entire year. With NuvaRing, you need 13 separate rings.

Proper Use for Maximum Effectiveness

For the highest efficacy from your vaginal ring, proper use is essential. Here are some tips:

• Always insert a new ring on time. Don’t delay at the end of your seven-day break.
• Never leave the ring out for over three hours. The hormones will start decreasing, lowering pregnancy protection.
• Follow the recommended durations. For NuvaRing, use one ring for three weeks, then replace it. For Annovera, use one ring for one full year.
• Try not to remove the ring during the three weeks it should stay inserted. The hormones work best when left undisturbed.
• Check that your ring is in the proper position after sex or exercise. Gently reposition it if needed.
• If your ring comes out, rinse and reinsert ASAP. Use backup protection such as condoms if out over 3 hours.

When used consistently and as directed, your vaginal ring will provide reliable birth control month after month or year after year. Following the instructions is important.

Expiration of the Vaginal Ring

As with any medication, vaginal rings have expiration dates to follow. An expired ring may not prevent pregnancy as effectively.

Here is how long each vaginal ring remains potent:

• NuvaRing expires four months after its manufacturing date. Replacing it monthly ensures you use a non-expired ring.
• Annovera expires one year after its manufacturing date. Before inserting a new one, confirm your Annovera ring hasn’t passed its expiration date.

Unopened rings stored properly can remain effective until expiration. But once in use, bacteria is introduced. Never use a ring longer than specified in the instructions. When unsure, start fresh with a new, unexpired ring.

Proper storage also prolongs a vaginal ring’s lifespan:

• Keep unused rings in their original foil packages without unsealing them until ready for use.
• Store rings at room temperature, out of sunlight, and away from temperature extremes.
• Refrigerate NuvaRing if the first use will occur more than four months after dispensing. Refrigeration is not recommended for Annovera.

Always check the expiration date so you insert a potent ring within its shelf life.

Get Effective Birth Control Guidance Personalized for Your Needs from Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness

NuvaRing and Annovera have different effective lifespans—NuvaRing works for about one month, while Annovera prevents pregnancy for an entire year. Use your vaginal ring exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes for optimal results.

Proper insertion, consistent use, and timely replacement are essential for your vaginal ring to prevent pregnancy effectively. Don’t extend use beyond the recommended duration, as doing so decreases effectiveness. Also, do not use an expired ring.

While both provide excellent protection when used correctly, the vaginal ring will not protect you from sexually transmitted infections. Using condoms along with the ring is suggested if STI protection is desired.

Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness has helped countless women understand their birth control options and find one suitable for their precise situation. We’re experts on all aspects of vaginal rings and women’s reproductive health.

Contact us today at (919) 636-6670 or schedule a consultation online to discuss whether NuvaRing or Annovera is a good option for you.

Intrauterine devices, also known as IUDs, have become a popular form of long-acting birth control for many women. The copper IUD is one type that offers effective contraception without using hormones.

It can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years, making it a convenient and highly reliable option for many. However, copper IUDs do not suit every woman’s needs or health status.

Some key health conditions and risk factors may mean a copper IUD is not your best option.

Pregnancy

One of the main contraindications for a copper IUD is pregnancy. You should not have a copper IUD inserted if there is even the slightest likelihood that you might already be pregnant. Getting an IUD when you are pregnant can lead to serious, even life-threatening, risks.

The copper IUD works primarily by preventing the egg from being fertilized. The copper ions it releases create a toxic and inhospitable environment for sperm. However, it does not always prevent every single fertilization.

If an egg is fertilized shortly before or in the days after IUD insertion, the IUD could prevent proper implantation and growth. This could lead to you losing the pregnancy.
Having an IUD inserted while pregnant also drastically increases the risk of a dangerous infection called septic abortion.

Septic abortion is a severe uterine infection that can spread quickly to every area of your body. It requires immediate treatment with IV antibiotics and can lead to infertility or even maternal death in some cases.

To avoid risks to an existing pregnancy, you should always have a pregnancy test before getting a copper IUD. Inform your doctor right away if, since your last period, you have engaged in unprotected sex. You may need to reschedule the insertion until you can verify that you aren’t pregnant.

Gynecological Conditions

Several gynecological conditions may make a copper IUD less safe or effective. Certain disorders involving the uterus or cervix are generally contraindications for IUD use.

Abnormally Shaped Uterus

If you have an abnormally shaped uterus, such as one with large fibroids, inserting an IUD can be challenging or impossible. The IUD needs to fit properly inside the uterus to be effective. In some cases of uterine abnormality, the risk of the IUD being expelled is much higher.

Active Pelvic Infections

Active pelvic infections are another reason to avoid copper IUD insertion. Pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID, is one such infection. PID causes inflammation and infection of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.

If you already have PID or another uterine infection, inserting an IUD could worsen the infection. The IUD insertion could “push” bacteria higher up into the pelvic cavity.

If you have had PID or any other uterine infection within the past three months following a pregnancy or miscarriage, it is best to wait. Your body needs time to fully recover before an IUD is placed.

Cervical or Uterine Cancer

Cervical and uterine cancers are also contraindications for IUD use. Localized cancers may be aggravated by IUD placement. Cancer treatments may make IUD insertion more complex as well. Discuss your cancer history thoroughly with your doctor.

Vaginal Bleeding

Unexplained vaginal bleeding should be evaluated before any IUD insertion. Bleeding could indicate an underlying gynecological condition that you need to treat first. Your doctor can run tests to identify the cause of bleeding and rule out problems such as cancer.

Pre-Existing IUD

Be sure to tell your doctor if you have a pre-existing IUD that has not been removed. Only one IUD should occupy the uterus at a time. Leaving multiple IUDs in place raises the risk of perforation and malposition.

Increased Infection Risk

Some people are more susceptible to developing infections related to an IUD. Those who get infections easily, have a weakened immune system, or have other medical conditions increasing infection risk should usually avoid copper IUDs.

The IUD insertion process and the presence of a foreign body in the uterus create susceptibility to bacterial growth. If you currently have PID or pelvic inflammation, the IUD could make it worse.

Those at high risk for PID, such as individuals with multiple sexual partners or STIs, must carefully consider the risks versus benefits of IUDs.

Proper preventative care, such as STI testing and treatment before insertion, can help reduce the chances of complications in higher-risk patients. Your doctor can help determine if a copper IUD is safe based on your specific infection and medical history.

Allergies

Though rare, some individuals are allergic to copper or other IUD components. Reported allergic reactions range from localized irritation to systematic anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals.

Nickel and polypropylene plastics are common sensitizers. If you have a known allergy to metals or medical implants, disclose this before proceeding with copper IUD insertion.

Signs of an allergic reaction might include unexplained rash, itching, swelling, or wheezing shortly after placement. Prompt medical care is needed if these occur.

Wilson’s Disease

Wilson’s disease is a rare genetic disorder that causes excess copper to accumulate in the body’s tissues. Individuals with Wilson’s disease are advised to avoid additional copper exposure from an IUD, as it could exacerbate symptoms.

Your doctor can order testing for this condition if Wilson’s disease is suspected based on your health and family history.

Partner with Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness for Confident Copper IUD Choices

Deciding whether a copper IUD is right for you requires careful thought and an honest discussion with your doctor. While highly effective, the risks and side effects may make it less ideal for some situations. Fortunately, many other birth control options exist to explore if copper IUDs have too many contraindications for you.

Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness compassionate doctors provide personalized guidance on all forms of birth control. We consider your needs and goals to help you make informed choices for your health and body.

Contact us today at (919) 636-6670 or schedule an appointment online so we can help you determine whether a copper IUD is right for you.

A contraceptive patch provides a user-friendly and straightforward method to prevent pregnancy. This lightweight, adhesive patch adheres to your skin, gradually releasing hormones into your body. These hormones work together to prevent pregnancy in a few critical ways.

Initially, they prevent your ovaries from discharging an egg each month, thus eliminating ovulation. They then enhance the thickness of the cervical mucus, which forms an effective barrier against sperm penetration. Lastly, these hormones thin the uterus lining, inhibiting successful implantation and growth of any fertilized eggs.

Using the patch is remarkably easy. Apply a new adhesive patch on your skin weekly for three consecutive weeks. In the fourth week, refrain from using the patch during your menstrual period. After this, you begin the four-week cycle again.

The Efficacy of the Patch

With strict adherence to the directions, the contraceptive patch demonstrates an impressive efficacy of over 99% in pregnancy prevention. In other words, less than one out of every 100 women conceive in a year while properly using this method, placing it among the most reliable reversible contraceptives at your disposal.

To achieve perfect usage, you should:

• Apply each new patch punctually, ensuring it stays on for the seven days.
• Avoid going over 48 consecutive hours without a patch.
• Ensure no single patch is worn longer than seven days.
• Persistently use the patch for three weeks before taking a week off.

Adhering to these steps carefully minimizes your chances of pregnancy to a low level. However, achieving these results requires 100% perfect usage.

In a typical real-world scenario where perfect usage might be challenging, the contraceptive patch has an effectiveness of approximately 91%. So, roughly 9 out of 100 patch users may become pregnant in a year due to common errors such as forgetting to change your patch on time, accidental early removal, and not using backup birth control when recommended.

Maximizing the Efficacy of the Patch

The following practical strategies can enhance the protective effect of the contraceptive patch:

• Mark your weekly patch change day on a calendar as a reminder and aim to change it at the same time each week.
• Utilize a backup contraceptive, such as condoms, if your patch has been off for over 48 consecutive hours. Continue the backup for seven days after a new patch application.
• Immediately replace your patch with a new one if it falls off prematurely. Do not reapply a previously used patch.
• Change your patch as soon as possible if you forget to do it on time. Backup contraception may be necessary if the new patch application is more than 48 hours late.
• Consult with your doctor in case of vomiting or diarrhea while using the patch, as such illnesses can affect its effectiveness.
• Check daily to ensure the patch is securely adhered to your skin.
• Refrain from using lotions, oils, or powders near your patch, as they could loosen the adhesive.
• Keep extra patches stored correctly in a cool, dry environment.

A Quick Look at the Pros and Cons of the Contraceptive Patch

The contraceptive patch comes with several potential benefits:

• Ease of use: The patch is straightforward and requires attention only once weekly, improving compliance compared to daily methods.
• Efficacy during illness: It remains functional even when experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. Oral contraceptives might lose their effectiveness if ejected shortly after ingestion.
• Alleviation of menstrual discomfort: Many women experience less intense and shorter periods when using the patch, enhancing their quality of life if they suffer from extreme menstrual discomfort.
• Reduction in cancer risk: Studies indicate that the patch may reduce the risks for certain cancers, such as ovarian, uterine, and colon cancer.
  However, it also carries a few potential disadvantages:
• Skin irritation: The adhesive can cause redness, itching, or rashes. Approximately one-third of patch users are affected.
• Absence of STD protection: It does not offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases, requiring the use of condoms.
• Side effects: Temporary side effects, such as headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, or mood changes, may occur when starting the patch.
• Blood clots and cancer: The patch can slightly elevate the risks for blood clots and breast cancer. These side effects are rare but more common than non-hormonal birth control methods.

Who Should Refrain from Using the Patch?

While the contraceptive patch offers numerous benefits, it may not be ideal for everyone. You might want to think about adopting other solutions if:

• You’re currently expecting a baby or believe you may be pregnant. The hormones in the patch could interfere with fetal development.
• You’re nursing a newborn younger than six weeks old. The patch’s hormones could potentially disrupt breast milk production.
• You’re a smoker above the age of 35. This combination could significantly raise your likelihood of developing blood clots.
• Your medical background includes conditions such as blood clots, heart attack, stroke, or hypertension, as the estrogen in the patch might intensify these cardiovascular risks.
• You have been previously diagnosed with specific cancers (such as breast cancer) due to the potential of estrogen to stimulate the proliferation of certain hormone-sensitive cancers.
• You’re dealing with liver disease, lupus, or diabetes with vascular complications. These conditions could heighten the risks associated with estrogen use.
• You’re currently on specific medications, for instance, anti-seizure or tuberculosis medication, that could have unfavorable interactions with the patch.

Get the Right Birth Control Solution for Your Needs with Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness

Navigating your reproductive health means exploring many choices, including the birth control patch. This option offers a great balance of effectiveness, simplicity, and added health benefits.

However, it isn’t necessarily the best solution for every person. Your health needs are unique and they deserve a personal approach that considers your medical history, daily life, and reproductive goals.

Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness’s seasoned healthcare providers have helped countless women navigate the world of birth control. We’re ready to support you with expert advice, compassionate care, and up-to-date contraceptive options to ensure the best solution tailored to your unique circumstances.

Contact us today at (919) 636-6670 or schedule an appointment online, so we can assist you in managing your reproductive health more effectively.

From condoms and diaphragms to IUDs and vaginal rings, there are numerous ways that women can prevent unwanted pregnancy. Birth control pills are an effective, convenient way to prevent pregnancy making them the preferred option for many women.

They are typically available in two categories: progestin-only pills and combination pills. Within these two categories, there are many different options on the market making it important to understand what sets them all apart.

Here is a closer look at the two main categories of birth control pills you will encounter.

Combination Birth Control Pills

Combination birth control pills are made with estrogen and progestin, which is a synthetic version of progesterone, a natural hormone found in the body. These two hormones can prevent pregnancy from occurring by impairing ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus to make it harder for sperm to pass through, and by thinning the lining of the uterus, which makes it more difficult for a fertilized egg to implant. This multi-pronged approach is a very effective way of preventing unwanted pregnancies.

Combination birth control pills are generally taken each day for three consecutive weeks, followed by a week during which placebo pills without hormones are taken or no pills are taken at all. Many women prefer to take placebo pills during the “off” week to maintain the routine of taking a pill each day. This makes them less likely to forget when it is time to take the active ones again.

However, some women choose to skip the placebo week altogether to avoid their period. This should only be done under the guidance of a gynecologist.

The Advantages Of Combination Birth Control Pills

Some of the unintended but appreciated side effects of these types of pills include their ability to improve hormonal acne in some women and lighten periods. Women who experience endometriosis often take them to reduce their symptoms. They have also been associated with reduced ovulation pain.

They offer women greater flexibility when it comes to the timing of taking their pill. Although taking it at the same time every day is recommended, it will still offer protection as long as it is taken daily.

The Drawbacks Of Combination Birth Control Pills

Unfortunately, for some women, these pills do have side effects, including nausea, breast tenderness, depression, spotting and bloating. They can also raise the risk of cardiovascular events and blood clots, which means that women with certain health conditions may not be able to use them.

Progestin-Only Birth Control Pills

While combination birth control pills contain both estrogen and progestin, the progestin-only variety does not use estrogen. These pills work in a similar manner, but the pregnancy protection they provide is primarily a result of the thickening action on cervical mucus, in addition to thinning the uterine lining to stop sperm from reaching the eggs. They are less effective for preventing ovulation.

The progestin-only pill must be taken at the same time each day and do not use a placebo week, which means that women take the hormones continuously. This often results in shorter periods or no periods at all.

The Advantages Of Progestin-Only Birth Control Pills

One of the main advantages of taking progestin-only birth control pills is the fact that they give women the option of skipping their periods altogether. They are also a good option for women who cannot take estrogen. For example, women who are over the age of 35 and smoke, as well as those with a higher risk of blood clots and cardiovascular disease, should not take estrogen and may therefore need progestin-only options instead.

The Drawbacks Of Progestin-Only Birth Control Pills

However there are a few drawbacks with this type of contraception. These pills may cause irregular periods and spotting, and they are also slightly less effective than the combination pill.

Because these pills must be taken at the same time each day, being three hours late or longer taking it, requires a backup method of contraception, such as condoms.

What About Low-Dose Birth Control?

Low-dose options are only available for the combination pill. These pills contain a lower dose of hormones that is still effective at stopping unwanted pregnancy but formulated to reduce some of the side effects that can be seen with higher-dose pills, such as nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness and headaches.

Reach Out to the Contraceptive Care Team at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness

Choosing the right birth control method requires a professional assessment of your medical history and family planning goals. To find out more about the best options for you, schedule an appointment with the women’s healthcare team at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness today.