May 12th 08 - A visit with The Gynecologist 5 - Contraception and the various methods of Birth control were discussed on this show with Dr. Richard Etkin OB/GYN (pictured here with Mrs. Etkin) being open and informative as always.
The dictionary defines contraception as the Intentional prevention of conception or impregnation through the use of various devices, agents, drugs, sexual practices, or surgical procedures. Birth control is any method used to prevent pregnancy. Another word for birth control is contraception.
the pros and Cons of all the various methods of birth control were explored and listeners were able to get valuable insight into what is currently available as well as information of which they should be aware. Methods of Birth control discussed during the gynecologist's visit are as follows:
- Hormonal Methods -include birth control pills, shots (Depo-Provera), the skin patch, the implant, and the vaginal ring. Birth control that uses hormones is very good at preventing pregnancy.
Barrier methods - include condoms, diaphragms, and sponges. To help a barrier work better use it with a spermicide; (a chemical that kills sperm.)
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs or Coils) are inserted into the womb. IUDs work very well for up to 4yrs at a time and are very safe.
- Natural family Planning (also called fertility awareness) - can work if you and your partner are very careful. You will need to keep good records so you know when you are fertile. And during times when you are fertile, you will need to skip sex or use a barrier method)
- Permanent birth control (sterilization) gives you lasting protection against pregnancy - A man can have a vasectomy, or a woman can have her tubes tied (tubal ligation). But this is only a good choice if you are sure that you don't want any (or any more) children.
Emergency Birth Control was mentioned and The "morning after" pill was explained in detail by Dr Etkin. Of particular interest was the consideration in choosing a birth control method. Dr Etkin mentioned spoke about the following factors to keep in mind:
- Health benefits - such as decreased risk for sexually transmitted diseases with condoms and reduced risk of ovarian cancer and uterine cancer with long-term use of birth control pills.
- Convenience and ease of use - Birth control forms such as patches, shots, IUDs, and vaginal rings are convenient for women who have trouble remembering to take a daily pill or couples who know they won’t use a barrier method every time they have sex.
- Cost - Over time, the higher one-time cost of IUD insertion or sterilization surgery may be less than the continued costs of buying pills or condoms and spermicide.
Please see your doctor to
- Get a prescription for birth control pills and other methods that use hormones.
- Have an IUD inserted.
- Be fitted for a diaphragm
If you have sex without birth control, there is a chance that you could get pregnant. This is also true for women who are nearing menopause or even for women who are not having regular periods.
The only sure way to prevent pregnancy is to not have sex. But finding a good method of birth control you can use every time can help you avoid an unplanned pregnancy.
Dr Richard Etkin OB/GYN can be reached at the Atlantic Star Center of Medical Excellence in South Hill Anguilla
Ph: (264) 497 0765