Routine Gynecologic Care

Sexually active individuals who do not wish to start a family have numerous choices when it comes to preventing pregnancy. Contraception gives women the ability to control when they want to have children. From condoms and spermicides to intrauterine devices and pills, there are many different ways of preventing pregnancy. Each option comes with its own advantages and disadvantages.

All contraception methods fall into one of two categories: barrier or hormonal. Here is a look at what sets these two methods apart and some of the benefits and drawbacks of each category.

Barrier Contraception Methods

As the name implies, barrier methods work by stopping sperm from physically entering your uterus and impregnating you. These methods do not use drugs or hormones to stop pregnancy from occurring. They are based on a simple premise: if sperm do not reach an egg, they cannot fertilize it and lead to pregnancy.

The most recognizable example of a barrier contraception method is a condom. These are usually made from a very thin piece of latex and are designed to stop semen from coming into contact with a woman’s reproductive tract.

When condoms are used correctly every time a couple has sex, they are considered 98 percent effective. However, there is a small possibility that they could slip off or break during sexual activity, in which case you could be at risk of a sexually transmitted infection or pregnancy.

Female condoms are also available. These are worn inside the vagina and work in the same way as male condoms, stopping semen from entering the vagina.

Diaphragms, or cervical caps, are another type of barrier contraception. These circular domes are made of silicone and inserted into the vagina prior to having sex. They cover the cervix, blocking sperm from entering. However, their reliability is not as effective as that of condoms; when used correctly and in conjunction with spermicide, they have an efficacy rate of 92 to 96 percent.

Hormonal Contraception

Hormonal contraception uses hormones to stop ovulation from occurring, which is another way of preventing pregnancy. There are many different types of hormonal birth control available.

The birth control pill is the best-known type of hormonal contraception. It is taken orally and contains artificial versions of female hormones that work to stop the release of an egg from occurring so sperm cannot fertilize it. It is more than 99 percent effective when taken correctly, but it is important to remember to take it each day at the same time. Some types of medication and illnesses with vomiting or diarrhea may make it less effective, however, and it has a low risk of serious side effects like blood clots.

Another popular hormonal form of birth control is a hormonal intrauterine device, or IUD. These T-shaped devices are inserted by a doctor into your uterus. They remain there and release a small amount of the hormone progestin into the body for a period of several years. This makes cervical mucus thicker, which means sperm can’t get through to an egg, and also stops eggs from leaving the ovaries in the first place so they cannot be fertilized. This prevents pregnancy and can sometimes reduce bleeding during periods as well.

Hormonal IUDs are easily reversible and do not affect fertility. There also a nonhormonal copper IUD option.

Other forms of hormonal contraception include skin patches and implants. The birth control patch is worn on the body and typically needs to be changed weekly. It delivers the hormones estrogen and progestin to the body to prevent pregnancy. This method is not suitable for women who have a body mass index of 30 or higher, however, due to the risk of blood clots.

The implant, meanwhile, is a small rod containing the hormone progestin that is inserted under the skin, usually in the upper arm, and can offer protection from pregnancy for around three years. It may cause irregular or unpredictable bleeding but is a highly effective method of birth control.

Preventing the Spread of Sexually Transmitted Infections

One of the most important differences between barrier methods of birth control and hormonal options is the fact that hormonal contraceptives do not offer any degree of protection from sexually transmitted infections.

Male condoms are the only form of contraception that can stop the transmission of sexually transmitted infections as they provide a barrier not only to semen but also to pathogens. However, this does not mean that those who wish to avoid STIs must choose condoms for contraception as well; you can use a dependable hormonal birth control method like the pill or implant to avoid pregnancy in conjunction with condoms when you are concerned about the risk of STIs.

Contact the Women’s Health-care Professionals

To learn more about the different types of birth control available and find a solution that meets your needs, get in touch with Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness today to schedule an appointment.

When the topic of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) comes up, many people focus on the types of infections that are passed through sexual intercourse. In fact, some people believe that they cannot get a sexually transmitted infection (STI) if they are not having penetrative sex. However, it is important to keep in mind that some sexually transmitted diseases can also be transmitted orally.

About Oral Sexually Transmitted Diseases

An oral sexually transmitted disease is a type of disease that is passed through oral sex. This refers to any type of sexual activity in which another person’s lips, tongue or mouth will come into contact with their partner’s genitals or their anus. Although you cannot get pregnant from this type of sex, it is still important to use protection given the possibility of transmitting or contracting an infection.

Sexually transmitted infections are passed through both sexual fluids and skin-to-skin contact. This means that if infected genital tissue comes into contact with tissues in the throat or mouth, an STI can be passed. Fluids do not need to be involved; any type of sexual contact does come with a risk of passing an infection. It is also important to note that some STIs, such as gonorrhea, can spread within the body, meaning that a disease that mostly affects the genitals could be transmitted through oral contact with the genitals of your partner.

Although the risk of contracting an infection in this manner is lower than the risk of getting one through vaginal or anal sex, several serious STIs can be transmitted orally. These include herpes, chlamydia, syphilis, HPV, and gonorrhea.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is caused by a type of bacteria and is the most frequently reported type of bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the US. It often causes no symptoms, although people may experience a sore throat, and it can be cured using the right antibiotics.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another common type of sexually transmitted disease caused by bacteria, and it can be passed through oral sex. Although there may not be any symptoms, those that do appear often show up around a week after exposure. Antibiotics can often cure gonorrhea, but there are increasing reports of drug-resistant strains.

Syphilis

Syphilis is another sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria that can be transmitted orally, but it is less common than the other infections. Although antibiotics can cure it, those who do not detect it and receive treatment could experience serious health complications such as neurological and organ damage.

Oral Herpes

Herpes simplex (HSV1) is also known as oral herpes, and cold sores are one of the most obvious symptoms. However, it can be contracted or transmitted even when a person is not showing any symptoms. It is a lifelong condition that cannot be cured, although antiviral medication can help ease discomfort and keep outbreaks under control.

HPV

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the most common sexually transmitted infection in America.

It does not always have symptoms, although there may be warts in the throat or difficulty speaking in those who have contracted it orally. HPV is concerning because it can lead to mouth or throat cancer. However, many HPV transmissions will be cleared by the body on its own.

Protecting Yourself From Oral Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Barrier methods such as condoms and dental dams are two good options for protecting everyone involved in oral sex. Condoms must be placed in a manner that completely covers the penis and must be thrown away after each use. It is also important to change a condom between oral sex and penetrative sex.

A dental dam, meanwhile, can cover the vulva and the vagina or anus. These can be purchased in most places that sell condoms, and they can only be used once before they must be thrown away. It is also possible to make your own by cutting a regular condom into the appropriate shape.

It is important to avoid having oral sex if you or your partner are experiencing any sores or cuts in or around the mouth, a sore throat, or an infection of the throat or mouth. You should avoid sex with a partner who has a visible lump, ulcer, or sore on their genitals, mouth, or anal area, even if you use a condom. Ask men not to ejaculate inside of your mouth, and you can also reduce the risk of infection by avoiding brushing your teeth or flossing immediately before oral sex.

Reach Out to Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness

If you believe that you may have contracted a sexually transmitted infection via oral sex or have any symptoms, contact Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness to schedule an appointment for a sexual health check. Beginning treatment as soon as possible can make a big difference.

Choosing a regular method of birth control is a big decision. The most effective methods often come with drawbacks that must be considered, so it is important to understand the pros and cons of each approach before making a decision. Here is a look at the advantages and disadvantages of some of the most popular birth control methods available.

The Pill

The birth control pill is one of the most popular forms of hormonal birth control. When it is used correctly, it boasts an effectiveness rate of 99 percent. Keep in mind that there is a wide variety of birth control pills on the market, and some have their own specific considerations. However, this also means that if one does not work for you, you may be able to find a different one that works better for your body chemistry.

Pros

• It is noninvasive in the sense that there is nothing to insert or implant.
• Many types can help reduce hormonal acne.
• Women can take it in a manner that enables them to skip their period every month, if desired.
• It can reduce the severity of symptoms associated with PMS.
• You can stop taking it whenever you wish and start trying for a family.

Cons

• Depending on your age, health, and other factors, it may raise your risk of blood clots and stroke.
• To enjoy its full effectiveness, it must be taken at the same time every day without fail.
• Some women may experience mood swings.

Hormonal IUD

A hormonal IUD is a device that your gynecologist inserts into your uterus that releases a small amount of progesterone into the system. This hormone can prevent pregnancy from occurring. Hormonal IUDs offer protection from pregnancy for several years.

Pros

• This is considered a set-it-and-forget-it method because you only have to have the device inserted once and can enjoy up to eight years of protection.
• It can make your period lighter or cause your periods to stop altogether.
• It has lower doses of hormones than the birth control pill.
• It offers the highest efficacy rate of all hormonal types of birth control.

Cons

• A gynecologist must insert and remove the device.
• It can be expensive for those whose insurance does not cover it.
• It can stop your period from coming altogether, which some women may find distressing despite being considered safe.

Copper IUD

A copper IUD is a type of intrauterine device that does not release hormones to prevent pregnancy. Instead, the copper that is used to make the device can deter sperm by killing them or pushing them to swim away from your egg.

Pros

• They are more than 99.9 percent effective, which is as close to perfect as you will find.
• They can last for as long as 10 years, making them a great choice for women who are certain they do not wish to start a family any time soon.
• Unlike hormonal IUDs, you will still have your period every month, which many women find reassuring.

Cons

• In some women, a copper IUD may cause their periods to be heavier or their premenstrual cramps to be more intense.
• Some women will experience irregular spotting during the first few months following insertion.

Condoms

For women who would rather not interfere with the natural hormones in their body or those who have had negative side effects while using hormonal birth control, barrier methods such as condoms form an impenetrable barrier between sperm and the cervix.

Pros

• There is no need to remember to take a birth control pill every day. Instead, you just need to ensure you have condoms on hand when you wish to have sex.
• It makes cleanup after sex easier.
• They offer protection not only from pregnancy but also from sexually transmitted infections, some of which can put your health at serious risk.
• Female internal condoms can be placed as much as eight hours prior to sex, which means foreplay does not have to be paused for insertion.

Cons

• Condoms can rip or come off accidentally, potentially rendering them ineffective.
• For some people, they may reduce sensation to some degree.
• You have to remember to use one and place it properly every time you have sex to prevent sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy.

The Patch

A birth control patch is stuck onto the skin, where it releases a controlled dose of hormones that can prevent pregnancy into the bloodstream.

Pros

• The patch only needs to be replaced one time per week, which means there is less to remember than there is with methods such as contraceptive pills and condoms.
• It is easy to remove if you wish to become pregnant.
• It can be 99 percent effective when it is used correctly.
• Side effects tend to be very mild.

Cons

• You must remember to replace the patch every week at the same time. This means there could be a chance of human error if you do not set automatic reminders.
• Although it is 99 percent effective when used correctly, its efficacy rate with typical use is only 91 percent.
• Although side effects are often mild, they do occur and may include breast tenderness, skin irritation, nausea, and headaches.

Discuss Your Options With the Experienced Raleigh Gynecologists

Every woman is unique, and there is no universally perfect choice of birth control. To explore the right options for your age, health status, and family planning concerns, schedule an appointment with the experienced North Carolina gynecologists at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness today.

There will come a time when every woman needs to visit a gynecologist. Even if you are not sexually active, visiting a gynecologist is a vital part of maintaining health throughout your life. The prospect of your first visit to a gynecologist can be extremely daunting, and it is not unusual to be uncomfortable with the idea of having a doctor examine your vagina and discuss sensitive topics related to your health.

For many women, knowing what to expect can take some of the intimidation out of the process. Here is a look at what you need to know ahead of your first appointment.

Know Why You Are Going

When you go to your first appointment, you need to have a clear idea of the reason for your visit. Many girls will go to the gynecologist for the first time between ages 13 and 15 as this is the age recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Younger women may not have anything specific that they need to discuss at this point, but it is still a good idea to think of any questions you want to ask beforehand.

However, many women do not see a gynecologist until they are ready to obtain birth control. If this is the purpose of your visit, it is a good idea to research the options and learn more about the types of birth control you are considering so that you can come up with questions ahead of time. In addition, preparation can help you feel calmer about the visit.

Know What Happens in a Pelvic Exam

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For many women, a pelvic exam is the most intimidating part of the process. Keep in mind, however, that if you are under the age of 21, you may not need to undergo a pelvic exam or a Pap test unless you are sexually active, have health concerns such as painful periods or abnormal bleeding, or are requesting sexually transmitted infection testing. Once you reach age 21, however, a yearly pelvic exam and a Pap test is recommended.

In a pelvic exam, your doctor will examine your vulva and all of the parts that you can see on the outside of your body. Then, they will insert a device known as a speculum to hold your vagina open so they can get a better look at its walls and your cervix. During this time, they will use a flat, gentle scraping device or soft brush to obtain samples for your Pap test, if applicable. This test checks for abnormalities that may indicate the presence of cervical cancer. Although this may sound worrying, keep in mind that it is rare and treatable in many cases. This part of the exam doesn’t usually last longer than a minute and is not uncomfortable for most women.

They will also check your uterus and ovaries with their fingers or with a sonogram device. This is also a relatively quick check. Your doctor may also perform a breast exam. Although young women generally have a low risk of breast cancer, your doctor may take the opportunity to show you how you can examine your own breasts to identify any changes.

Know Your Family’s Medical History

At your first gynecologist visit, your doctor will want to know about any medical conditions that you have, past surgeries, and medications that you are taking. If you have a complicated health history, you may wish to jot this information down before your appointment.

They will also ask about your family’s medical history, particularly anything in your mother’s health history related to blood clots and cancers affecting women. For example, if you have a family history of blood clots, your doctor may wish to steer you away from hormonal birth control pills that contain high amounts of estrogen toward other options that do not pose as much of a risk of blood clots.

Know That You Are in Control

It may be comforting to know that you have more control over the appointment than you might think. For example, if you have a preference when it comes to having a male or female gynecologist, you can request whichever doctor you believe you would be more comfortable with. There may be some limitations due to your insurance company or your parents may want you to see a doctor they already have a good relationship with, but you can still have some control over your care provider.

In addition, you should let the doctor know in advance that it will be your first visit. If you’re nervous, you may ask to make it more comfortable by bringing in headphones to listen to music, having a nurse come in and hold your hand, or bringing a close friend or parent with you for extra support if you get your doctor’s approval first. If you believe it would be helpful to see what the doctor is doing, you can ask your doctor to hold a mirror up so you can be more aware of what is going on.

Contact the Women’s Healthcare Team at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness

At Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness, we understand the emotions that accompany your first visit to the gynecologist. Nevertheless, this appointment is an important step toward a lifetime of wellness. Our team of practitioners strives to make the process as comfortable as possible, and we are happy to answer all your questions. Contact us today to set up your first appointment.