Procedures

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.

The birth control patch is a convenient method of birth control that is worn on the skin for three weeks and changed at the end of each week. During the fourth week, no patch is worn so that menstrual bleeding can occur.

The patch functions in a similar manner to combination birth control pills, releasing hormones into the bloodstream that prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus to stop sperm from reaching an egg.

Most women place the birth control patch on their upper outer arm, upper body, lower abdomen or buttock. Although the birth control patch can technically be placed on most areas of the body as long as your skin stays dry and is not particularly hairy, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

Do Not Place It On Sore Or Irritated Skin

The adhesive in the hormonal birth control patch can be slightly irritating for some people; placing it on skin that is already sore or irritated is not recommended. Similar to a bandage, the adhesive in the patch tends to attract a line of lint or dirt around the edge while it is being worn.

At the end of the week when it is time to remove the pouch, it may be necessary to scrape this dirt away, which can be an unpleasant experience on skin that is already irritated.

Avoid Places Where You Often Wear Tight Clothing

Another consideration is your lifestyle and habits. The patch should not be placed in an area where it could get rubbed off by tight clothing. Therefore, if you exercise frequently, you should not place it where the band of your workout pants or sports bra rests as this could cause it to rub off accidentally and put you at risk of unwanted pregnancy.

Avoid Your Breasts

It is not recommended to place the birth control patch on your breasts for several reasons. First, the patch could be accidentally rubbed off by your bra or sexual activity. In addition, the patch requires a dry environment, and the breast area is prone to moisture from sweating.

One of the most common side effects of the patch is sore breasts, and placing a patch there could make this worse. Moreover, clinical studies have not addressed the use of the birth control patch on the breasts; placing it elsewhere may be safer.

The Patch Comes in One Color

Another consideration is the fact that the birth control patch is currently only available in one color. This beige shade will not blend in with all skin tones. Those who do not want their patch to be noticeable may choose to place it somewhere where it will generally be hidden by clothing as it can really stand out on skin color that contrasts with the patch.

Change the Position Of Your Patch Each Time

It is important to keep in mind that you should change the position of every new patch you place to reduce the chance of experiencing skin irritation. This may be unwelcome news for those who have put a lot of effort into finding the perfect location.

However, you can simply shift the patch slightly to ensure that it is not overlapping with the skin where it was placed the week before and then return it to the original position the following week if desired.

Ensure You Apply it Correctly

To apply your birth control patch, open the foil pouch and lift one corner of it using a fingernail. Then, peel the patch and its plastic liner away from the pouch. Next, peel away half of its protective clear lining and place the sticky surface of the patch onto the skin in your chosen location.

Once it is in place, remove the remainder of the liner and press the patch down firmly using the palm of your hand for a few seconds. Make sure you smooth it out and that the edges are sticking well to your skin. You should not remove the patch to swim, exercise or bathe.

Check Your Patch Regularly

Regardless of where you choose to place your birth control patch, it will be necessary to check it regularly to ensure it remains in place. If it has become partially or fully detached and you are unable to reapply it, you should replace it with a new one right away. If the patch is no longer sticky, sticks to another surface or itself, or it has material stuck in it, you should start over with a new one.

In the event that your patch is partially or fully detached from your body for longer than 24 hours, you will need to use a backup method of birth control for one week in addition to applying a new patch.

Discuss Your Contraceptive Concerns with Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness

Schedule a consultation with the contraceptive care team at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness to find out whether the birth control patch is a suitable option for you and to address any concerns about placement.

Vaginal ring insertion is up to 100 percent effective during use, and it’s one of the most popular pregnancy prevention methods available today. Prescribed by a physician, vaginal rings are made of pharmaceutical plastic and compounded with estrogen and progestogen, the same hormones found in birth control tablets.

A vaginal ring works by ceasing egg release during a woman’s monthly ovulation cycle and thickening the cervical fluid near the uterus, preventing the sperm from entering the womb. Birth control contraceptive care products come with instructions for application, and information about the health risks associated with use.

Keep reading to learn the side effects of vaginal ring contraception use.

Vaginal Ring Use Side Effects

The challenge of selecting a contraceptive care method often comes down to personal preference and fit. Although most users do feel a ring after insertion, some women can experience physical or hormone related side effects.

The medically prescribed use of a vaginal ring is three weeks preceding the menstrual cycle and reinsertion seven days later. If inserted improperly or combined with specific medications, the vaginal ring’s effectiveness may be reduced.

Medical practitioners advise that, should severe side effects emerge after vaginal ring insertion, device removal is recommended. The common side effects connected with vaginal ring contraception are:

• Bloating
• Irregular vaginal bleeding
• Migraine headaches
• Mood alterations
• Nausea
• Sexual discomfort
• Skin blotching
• Sore or tender breasts
• Vaginal discharge
• Weight gain

Health Risks of Vaginal Ring Use

If signs or symptoms of health risk or illness emerge before or during vaginal ring insertion, avoid use. A vaginal ring can increase the risk of blood and nervous system related disorders, such as arteriosclerosis, deep vein thrombosis, heart attack or stroke.

Breast cancer patients are also sometimes advised to cease contraceptive use. Pregnancy prevention with vaginal ring insertion may be the wrong choice in circumstances where the user exhibits the following health related conditions:

• Blood clotting disorders
• Breast cancer
• High blood pressure
• History of heart attack
• Liver disease
• Migraine headaches
• Obesity
• Smoking over the age of 35

Postpartum Side Effects with Vaginal Ring Use

Pregnant patients planning to use vaginal ring contraception after giving birth are advised to wait six weeks before insertion to avoid side effects while breastfeeding. A failure to follow physician instructions for use can result in unwanted postpartum side effects, including a reduction of breast milk, increased risk of migraine headache conditions, or deep vein thrombosis and other clotting disorders.

If not breastfeeding, it is still generally advised to wait at least three to six weeks after giving birth to use a vaginal ring or other pharmaceutical contraceptive methods that introduce estrogen and progestogen to the body.

Other Risks of Vaginal Ring Use

The projected risk of vaginal ring pregnancy prevention failure within clinical testing is a low 7%. There are issues that may arise if a vaginal ring is not inserted properly, such as when reinsertion exceeds 24 hours beyond the scheduled insertion date, a ring is taken out longer than 24 hours during the 3-week prescribed period of use.

Or there is simultaneous ingestion of medications or natural remedies not advised under physician recommendations. Any failure to insert a vaginal ring as prescribed can also lead to secondary health risks or other side effects.

Details about Vaginal Ring Contraceptives

The vaginal ring device is one of several types of prescription contraceptive that effectively reduces the risk of pregnancy. Similar with other contraceptive devices, vaginal rings are inserted for a prescribed period, yet the introduction of hormonal modification with this method can result in side effects.

Vaginal ring contraception insertion does not protect the user or sex partners from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If interested in vaginal ring contraception or other medically prescribed pregnancy prevention treatment, consult with a physician.

Contact Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness

Vaginal ring contraceptive care is a form of medically supervised pregnancy prevention. At Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness, we offer our patients the best in contraceptive care services. Our goal is to assist patients in determining the contraception option most suited to their individual health history and lifestyle.

Ask about vaginal ring pregnancy prevention and other specialized contraceptive care options available through our office. Schedule a consultation with one of our physicians to find out more about the contraceptive care options right for you.