Have you ever wondered, “What does a gynecologist do that my primary physician can’t?” Many primary care physicians offer gynecological exams as a part of your annual checkup. OBGYNs, on the other hand, specialize in the treatment of female reproductive organs and have four additional years of residency and certification.
They often have advanced subspecialty training as well in areas like reconstructive surgery, family planning, or pelvic medicine. This makes them uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat issues with your pelvis, vulva, vagina, or uterus.
The health of your reproductive system can directly affect your overall physical and mental health, so it’s vital that you have a dedicated gynecologist as well as a primary care physician. Your gynecologist can help you understand how your reproductive system works, answer your questions about your body, and teach you how to care for your reproductive system.
What Does a Gynecologist Do?
Gynecologists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of female reproductive organs, whether or not the patient identifies as female. This includes the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, vagina, vulva, pelvic floor, and breasts.
Do, what does a gynecologist do? During their day-to-day practice, gynecologists provide reproductive and sexual health services such as:
- Pap Smears
- Pelvic Exams
- Mammograms
- Pregnancy Tests
- Cancer Screenings
- HPV Vaccinations
- STI Testing and Treatments
- Fertility Counseling and Treatments
- Birth Control Counseling and Prescriptions
Gynecologists are well equipped to spot and correctly diagnose issues related to your reproductive system. They often deal with disorders like:
- Abnormal Bleeding
- Endometriosis
- Fibroids
- Ovarian Cysts
- Urinary Incontinence
- Vaginitis
- Decrease in Sexual Desire
- Painful Intercourse
- Yeast Infections
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases
- Hormone Imbalances
- Infertility
Some gynecologists are also obstetricians—doctors who specialize in pregnancy and birth. This is where the term “OBGYN” comes from—obstetrician and gynecologist.
How Often Should I Go to the Gynecologist?
It is recommended by the Mayo Clinic that people with female reproductive organs should start seeing a gynecologist annually between the ages of 11 and 18, or after the onset of their first menstrual period. Many younger patients (under the age of 18) can have their reproductive health needs met by their pediatrician until they become sexually active or experience issues with the reproductive organs.
A gynecologist should be consulted regardless of age if any of the following instances occur:
- Unusually painful periods
- Pelvic pain
- Abnormal or irregular bleeding
- Unable to wear a tampon without pain
- Delayed puberty (no menstrual cycle by age 16/no breast tissue development by age 14)
- Concerns about sexual health or contraception
Annual Pap smears should begin when a patient becomes sexually active or by the age of 21, whichever comes first, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
You should also see a gynecologist any time you experience pain, discomfort, or signs of infection in your reproductive tracts.
What Does a Gynecologist Do About Common Gynecological Issues and Symptoms
Abnormal Bleeding
Most women will experience some abnormal bleeding—often called “spotting”—between periods at some point in their lives. Vaginal bleeding is considered abnormal if:
- You are not expecting your period;
- Your menstrual period is much heavier or lighter than usual;
- You are bleeding during a time in your life you should not be, such as after menopause, before age 9, or while pregnant.
Abnormal bleeding can be caused by a variety of factors, including structural abnormalities or hormone imbalances. While atypical bleeding is distressing, it is not always a cause for concern. However, abnormal bleeding can sometimes be a sign of a significant underlying problem, so make sure you tell your gynecologist as soon as you detect it.
Your gynecologist can help you diagnose and manage abnormal bleeding through exams and simple tests. Some common causes of abnormal bleeding are:
Medications
Certain medications can cause spotting and irregular menstrual cycles. This is a particularly well-known side effect of hormonal birth control. If you don’t take your pills at the same time each day, your cycle can become dysregulated and cause spotting. Make sure your gynecologist has a current list of all your medications and supplements when you go in for an examination.
Ovulation
Sometimes ovulation can cause spotting and irregular bleeding mid-cycle.
IUDs
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) can cause spotting or change your menstrual flow, making it heavier or lighter than usual. Make sure you report your observations to your gynecologist so they can help you regulate your IUD.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) causes inflammation in your ovaries, uterus, or fallopian tubes. Inflammation in any of your pelvic organs can lead to abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is caused by a hormone imbalance. This can disrupt your normal ovulation cycle and cause mid-cycle bleeding or irregular menstrual periods.
Perimenopause
You may be in perimenopause if you’re over 40 and have irregular bleeding, a change in menstrual flow, or spotting. The hormonal state preceding full menopause is known as perimenopause.
There are several, less common causes for abnormal bleeding that may indicate a serious underlying condition. These include:
- Uterine fibroids
- Urethral prolapse
- Cervical, vaginal, or uterine cancers
- Hyperthyroidism
- Diabetes
- An object stuck in the vagina
- Sexual abuse
- Uterine prolapse
- Miscarriage
If you are pregnant and experiencing abnormal bleeding, consult with your obstetrician immediately. While some spotting is normal, especially in the early months, heavy bleeding may indicate a problem with the pregnancy.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that is normally located within the uterus grows on other organs in the body—usually your ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the tissue lining your pelvis.
Normal endometrial tissue that lines the uterus is responsible for thickening, breaking down, and shedding every month—preparing the body for pregnancy and resulting in your menstrual cycle. With endometriosis, that tissue acts in exactly the same way, but it becomes trapped when there’s no way for it to exit your body. This can cause inflammation and ovarian cysts, both of which lead to scar tissue and adhesions.
All of this can cause severe pain during your period, during sexual intercourse, or on a day-to-day basis. As scar tissue builds up, you may experience difficulty conceiving. Luckily, there are many ways to manage endometriosis, including pain medication, fertility medication, and/or hormone therapy.
Symptoms of Endometriosis
- Excessive bleeding during or between periods
- Extreme pain during your period
- Painful intercourse
- Painful bowel movements and/or urination
- Infertility
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea
Comorbidities
People with endometriosis are more likely to experience infertility issues. Because the condition worsens over time, your OBGYN may encourage you to have children sooner rather than later if you want to start a family.
There are also higher rates of ovarian cancer in those diagnosed with endometriosis. Endometriosis-associated adenocarcinoma is another form of cancer linked to endometriosis, but it is extremely rare.
Fibroids
Fibroids are benign growths of the uterine tissue that may develop on or in the uterus. There are often no signs or symptoms, but large fibroids can cause heavy periods and/or severe abdominal pain. While fibroids are extremely common—over 85% of women experience fibroid growths by age 50_their exact cause is unknown.
Types of Fibroids
There are several types of fibroids. The type you are diagnosed with depends on where the fibroid is located on your uterus.
Subserosal Fibroids
These grow on the outside of your uterus (also known as the serosa).
Pedunculated Fibroids
These occur when subserosal fibroids grow a stem that supports the tumor.
Intramural fibroids
The most common type of fibroid. These grow in the walls of your uterus.
Submucosal Fibroids
These grow in the middle layer of your uterine wall, also known as the myometrium. These are the least common type of fibroid.
Symptoms of Fibroids
- Visible swelling in the abdomen
- A feeling of pressure or fullness in the abdomen
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Unusually long or heavy menstrual periods
- Pain in the pelvis area and/or cramps in your lower back
- More frequent urination
- An increase in pain or cramping during your menstrual period
- Heavy bleeding between periods
- Blood clots during your menstrual period
Consult your gynecologist if you encounter any of these symptoms. A pelvic exam will be performed. They may also need an ultrasound or a pelvic MRI to confirm their diagnosis of fibroids if they uncover anything unexpected.
Fibroid Treatments
Fibroids are seldom dangerous and are very treatable. There are various medical and surgical treatment options for fibroids. Your gynecologist will help you develop an individualized treatment plan based on the severity and placement of your fibroids.
Treatments for fibroids may include:
- Watch and wait—if you are asymptomatic or experience very little pain from your fibroids, your gynecologist may recommend checking in periodically, but otherwise leaving them alone.
- Medications
- Progestin IUD
- Non-invasive focused ultrasound surgery (FUS)
- Minimally invasive surgical procedures
- Hysterectomy—this is only recommended in the most severe of cases
With any fibroid treatment (with the exception of a full hysterectomy), there should be the understanding that the fibroids may grow back and cause new symptoms. Fibroids are not cancerous and seldom interfere with pregnancy. They also tend to shrink or disappear after you go through menopause, likely in response to the decrease in hormones that feed them.
You should always consult with your gynecologist about the severity of your condition and their recommended treatment plan. However, a good doctor will suggest the least invasive treatment options available to you first, to spare you from the cost and health risks associated with more invasive treatments.
Urinary Incontinence
Incontinence refers to leakage of urine from the bladder. This can be an undesirable symptom of a number of medical conditions or diseases. In women, incontinence can be associated with urges to urinate or with stress or physical activities. It is also extremely common both during and after pregnancy.
While embarrassing, urinary incontinence is incredibly common—it is estimated that 30% of women between the ages of 30 and 60 suffer from urinary incontinence. There are six types of incontinence:
Urge Incontinence
Urge incontinence is also often referred to as “overactive bladder”. Sudden, involuntary contractions of the bladder walls cause the urge to urinate. Once the urge to urinate hits, the person suffering from urge incontinence has a very short time before the urine is released from the bladder involuntarily.
Urges can be caused by psychological triggers such as the sound of running water, talking about urination, or seeing a restroom. They can also be caused by physical movements or changes in position, like standing after sitting for long periods. It is also very common to experience urges to urinate during sex, especially during the contractions associated with orgasm.
Damage to the bladder nerves, the neurological system, or the muscles within the bladder can all lead to urge incontinence.
Stress Incontinence
Stress incontinence is caused by physical stress on the body, not mental stress. It is most common in women whose bodies have undergone the stress of giving birth. It is also common among women going through menopause.
Physical pressure on the bladder muscles causes stress incontinence. Involuntary urination can be caused by coughing, sneezing, straining to raise something, exercising, or laughing.
Overflow Incontinence
Overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder cannot hold the volume of urine being produced by the body or when the bladder has difficulty completely emptying itself. This is more common in men struggling with prostate issues but can be found in women experiencing severe inflammation of the bladder or urethra.
People suffering from overflow incontinence may find themselves needing to urinate more frequently. Another common symptom is “dribbling” small amounts of urine throughout the day.
Functional Incontinence
Functional incontinence is not caused by bladder issues. Often, those with functional incontinence know they need to use the restroom, but they can’t make it to the facilities before urinating due to mobility issues. This is especially common in elderly patients who struggle with mobility and dementia patients.
Treatment for functional incontinence is more focused on improving mobility than on controlling the urge to urinate.
Total Incontinence
Total incontinence occurs when a person cannot control their bladder at all. They either leak urine constantly or have regular episodes of uncontrollable urination. This can be caused by a birth defect, a spinal cord injury, or by damage to the urinary system. Sometimes total incontinence may be caused by a fistula, which is a small hole between the vagina and the bladder.
Mixed Incontinence
People with mixed incontinence suffer from a combination of symptoms–usually a combination of stress and urge incontinence symptoms.
If you are experiencing any type of incontinence, don’t be embarrassed. Talk to your gynecologist about your symptoms. They will work with you to diagnose and treat or manage your urinary incontinence.
Treatments for Urinary Incontinence
There are many treatments for urinary incontinence. The kind of treatment your gynecologist prescribes will vary depending on the type and severity of your incontinence.
Physical Exercises
If you suffer from stress incontinence, your problems are likely caused by damage to your pelvic floor or bladder muscles. Your doctor may recommend Kegel exercises, which strengthen the pelvic floor. Strengthening these muscles can help you control the flow of urine when you feel the urge to urinate.
They may also suggest “bladder training”. Bladder training involves exercises like waiting as long as possible to urinate or setting a regular bathroom schedule to avoid incidents. They may also suggest practicing double voiding–urinating and then waiting a moment before urinating again. This helps ensure that the bladder is fully emptied. Bladder training is very helpful for those with functional incontinence, stress incontinence, and urge incontinence.
Medication
There are several medications designed for those who struggle with incontinence. Some help with overactive bladders while others are designed to strengthen urethral tissue. Your gynecologist will discuss the best options for your particular diagnosis as well as any possible side effects.
Medical Devices
There are many medical devices designed to help women who struggle with incontinence. Many of these devices are designed to counteract the damage and stress incontinence caused by childbirth. Others counteract urge incontinence by strengthening muscles and calming overactive bladders.
Botox Injections
Injecting the muscle-freezing botox directly into the muscles of your bladder wall can prevent the spasms that cause urge incontinence.
Bulking Agents
Injections of bulking agents help keep the urethra closed by thickening the tissue around the urethra.
Pessaries
A pessary is a hard ring that is inserted into the vagina. The rigid structure supports your bladder and prevents leaking. A pessary can be removed but is meant to be worn throughout the day.
Radiofrequency Therapy
Radiowaves heat the tissue of your urinary tract which stimulates healing. The resulting scar tissue is usually thicker, which should give you better control over urination.
Urethral Inserts
Urethral inserts block your urethral passage. You insert them before activity and remove them when you need to urinate.
Surgery
Surgery is the last and most drastic option for the treatment of incontinence. Your gynecologist will likely only suggest surgery when all other options have failed. There are several surgeries that may help lessen the symptoms of incontinence.
Sling procedures involve the insertion of surgical mesh underneath your bladder to offer support and prevent leakage. Colposuspension is the lifing of the bladder neck—this is usually recommended as a treatment for stress incontinence. Your gynecologist may also recommend that an artificial sphincter be inserted to help you control urine flow.
Your gynecologist may have training in these surgical procedures or they may refer you to a urologist. Discuss your treatment options and all possible side effects carefully with your gynecologist.
Vaginitis
Vaginitis is vaginal inflammation that causes itching, abnormal discharge, and pain. This inflammation can be caused by an imbalance in your vaginal pH or by an infection. Vaginitis may also be caused by certain skin conditions or low estrogen levels post-menopause.
Types of Vaginitis
Yeast Infections
Candida albicans is a naturally occurring fungus that already resides in your vagina. When something interrupts the pH balance of your vagina, Candida can grow unchecked which results in a yeast infection.
Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) occurs when there is too much of a certain type of bacteria in your vagina. This is the most common vaginal infection in women 15-44 years old. The exact cause of BV is unknown, but it is linked to bacterial imbalances within the vagina.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite. It is most commonly contracted during sexual intercourse.
Symptoms of Vaginitis
The symptoms of vaginitis can vary depending on what type you’re suffering from, but there are some common indicators, including:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Itching or irritation of the vagina
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Painful urination
- Spotting or irregular vaginal bleeding
Watch for Vaginal Discharge
Many women with vaginitis don’t have any change in vaginal discharge. But if you notice any of the following changes, consult with your gynecologist.
Gray or Thin White Discharge
If you notice a grayish-white discharge with a foul or fishy odor, you may have bacterial vaginosis. The smell is often most obvious after sexual intercourse.
Thick or Clumpy White Discharge
If you are having a thick, white discharge that looks like cottage cheese, you likely have a yeast infection. You may also notice a yeasty, bread-like smell or intense itching sensations.
Green or Yellow Discharge
If you notice greenish-yellow discharge, it may be a sign of trichomoniasis. This infection can also cause your discharge to appear frothy or bubbly.
Treatments for Vaginitis
Your treatment will depend on what type of vaginitis you’re diagnosed with.
Yeast infections are treated with anti-fungal creams and oral medications. Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics. Trichomoniasis is also treated with antibiotics to kill the parasite. If you have a non-infection form of vaginitis caused by menopause, your gynecologist will likely prescribe estrogen creams.
Mammography
Many gynecologists also offer mammograms as a part of their service offering. Mammograms are x-ray pictures of your breast used to screen for breast cancer. While self-examination and physical examination are also helpful in screening for lumps that indicate breast cancer, mammograms can detect suspicious lumps and clumps of cells up to three years earlier.
How are Mammograms Performed?
When you have a mammogram, you will stand in front of the special x-ray machine and a technologist will help you arrange your breast on the attached plate. Another plate is lowered to hold your breast in place and flatten the tissue while the x-ray is taken. The x-rays will then be viewed by your doctor for any signs of irregularities or cancer.
Mammograms are uncomfortable for most women. But they are over very quickly, so your pain should be fleeting.
How Often Should I Get a Mammogram?
Women between the ages of 40 and 44 should receive annual mammograms if they have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, according to the American Cancer Society. Every year between the ages of 45 and 54, you should have a mammogram. If you’re over 55, you have the option of continuing with yearly mammograms or switching to every two years.
The Woman’s Clinic now offers mammograms in-office for all of its patients.
SPARC
The Woman’s Clinic is proud to offer SPARC—our Sexual, Pain Advancement, & Restorative Care Clinic. The goal of SPARC is to advance communication about women’s sexual health. If you are struggling with sexual intimacy, have noticed a drop in libido, or are experiencing pain during sexual intercourse, we’re here to help.
We understand that sexual health is an uncomfortable or painful topic for many women. Our mission is to address that pain and help you find solutions for your issues. Our hope is that you will be able to use SPARC as the first step towards getting your spark back.
If you have intimacy concerns, or you have a question regarding decreased sexual desire, pain during intimacy or attempted intercourse, vaginal pain, pain after any vaginal or pelvic trauma, or arousal and orgasm disorders, we are here for you. We also offer assistance with pelvic floor physical therapy, as well as additional resources for pelvic therapy products and health.
Ask one of our compassionate and knowledgeable staff about the SPARC program to get the conversation started.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)—also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs)—are infections spread from person to person as a result of contact through sexual intercourse or activity. Most STIs are completely preventable and easily treated. However, if left untreated, STIs can lead to serious health problems, so it’s important to get tested if you suspect you may have an infection.
STD Testing
Your gynecologist should provide full panel STD testing as needed. It’s important to understand that most of the time, STDs have very mild or no symptoms. So get tested regularly if you are sexually active, especially if you have a new or multiple partners. Depending on what you’re being tested for, STD testing may include:
- Urine test
- Cheek swab
- Physical exam
- A swab of any sores
- A swab of your genital or anal area
- A blood test
You can obtain a diagnosis the same day, depending on the STD. However, for blood-test or lab results you may have to wait a few days for a diagnosis. If you’re worried, ask your gynecologist about rapid testing. Some clinics offer rapid testing for HIV.
Types of STDs
There are many types of STDs. These are some of the most common:
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection. While many people are asymptomatic, symptoms can include pain while urinating, abnormal vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding between periods, and lower belly pain. Treatment is very easy and usually involves taking a course of oral antibiotics.
Genital Warts
Growths on or around the genital area, usually caused by certain strains of HPV. They are usually skin-colored or white bumps on or around the genital area. They might be itchy, but they are usually painless. It can take weeks, even months for genital warts to show up after infection.
Genital warts may go away on their own. If they persist or grow larger, talk to your doctor about your options. They may prescribe a cream or freeze warts off using cryotherapy.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection. It is also commonly called “the clap” or “the drip”. Most people don’t experience symptoms at all, but they can include:
- Painful urination
- Bleeding between periods
- Unusual vaginal discharge that looks yellow or bloody
- Itching around the anus
- Anal discharge
Gonorrhea is easily treated with oral antibiotics.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a virus that can cause liver disease when left untreated. It can be prevented by getting the Hepatitis B vaccine or by using condoms.
Because it’s a viral infection, there is no cure for Hepatitis B. However, it does almost always go away on its own. There are medications that can help treat and manage the symptoms of long-term infections.
Herpes
Herpes is a viral infection that can affect your mouth or genital area. It can be painful and annoying, but luckily, herpes rarely leads to serious health problems. Genital herpes is one of the most common STIs, affecting one in six Americans. More than half of all Americans have oral herpes, which is the cause of cold sores.
Symptoms include:
- Burning when you pee
- Itching in the genital area
- Small red bumps or sores
- Pain around your genitals
- Fever
- Chills
- Swollen glands
- Flu-like symptoms
There is no cure for herpes, but there are treatments to reduce symptoms and outbreaks. Anti-virals help reduce viral shedding, over-the-counter pain medication helps with pain and inflammation, and warm baths or ice packs can help relieve pains from the sores.
HIV & AIDS
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that can cause AIDS in people. HIV weakens your immune system, making it easier for you to become infected. The only way to lower your risks of catching HIV is to use condoms.
Because HIV can develop to AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), getting treatment as soon as you suspect you’ve been exposed is critical. It takes around ten years for someone with HIV to acquire AIDS if they do not receive therapy. You may never develop AIDS if you receive effective treatment.
It might take years, if not decades, for HIV to manifest symptoms. They can manifest as flu-like symptoms such as weariness, body aches, and fever when they do arise.
Antiviral therapy is a set of medications that can help slow the spread of HIV in your body and reduce your risks of passing it on to others.
HPV
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world. There are over 200 strains of HPV, many of which go away on their own. However, there are a few types that can lead to genital warts or, in the worst cases, cervical cancer. Almost everyone who is sexually active will contract HPV at some point in their life.
There are no symptoms for HPV, so unless you’re regularly screened, you likely won’t know you have it until you develop abnormal or cancerous cells. Catching these cells early can prevent cancer from forming in your cervix or vulva.
Your gynecologist will automatically screen you for high-risk HPV during your regular Pap smear. This is one of the reasons it’s so important to have annual gynecological checkups.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis, or “Trich” as it’s more commonly called, is caused by a parasite carried in sexual fluids (semen, vaginal fluids, etc.). Many people with trich have no symptoms, but you may notice green, yellow, or grey vaginal discharge; genital itching or irritation; painful intercourse; painful urination; or bloody vaginal discharge.
Oral medicines are a simple way to treat trichomoniasis.
Birth Control
Birth control is any device, medicine, or method used to prevent pregnancy. It includes monitoring your cycle, the “pull out method”, physical barriers like condoms and diaphragms, as well as hormonal intervention like “The Pill”.
Some birth control methods are more popular than others, but you should talk to your gynecologist about what works for your body and family planning preferences. These are some of the most common forms of birth control:
Birth Control Pills
Although this birth control method is often referred to as “The Pill”, there are dozens of different pills to choose from with varying levels and combinations of hormones designed to prevent pregnancy. As with all hormone-based birth control methods, the pill works by tricking your body into thinking you’re already pregnant to prevent ovulation and the release of an egg. If there is no egg to be fertilized, you can’t get pregnant!
The Combination Pill
The combination pill combines progestin and estrogen to prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg. You must take your pill daily at approximately the same time every day for the pill to be fully effective. When used perfectly, it is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
The Mini Pill
The mini pill uses only progestin to prevent ovulation. This makes it an excellent choice for people who react badly to estrogen, who have a high risk for breast cancer, or who are breastfeeding. As with the combination pill, with perfect use (every day at the same time), the mini-pill is 99% effective.
There are dozens of brands that offer varying formulations but, generally speaking, they all fall under one of these two categories.
The Patch
The patch is exactly what it sounds like—it’s a small patch that you stick to your arm or hip or back. It works a lot like a nicotine patch but, instead of nicotine, it releases a slow dose of hormones that suppress ovulation.
A lot of women love that you don’t have to remember to use it every day, like the pill. But you do have to replace it every week, so set a reminder on your phone! With perfect use, the patch is 99% effective. Taking typical use into account, it’s about 91% effective.
The Implant
The implant is a hormonal birth control method that operates on the same philosophy as the patch, only it lasts longer. A very small plastic stick is inserted under the skin. It releases a constant dose of progestin to block ovulation. It’s over 99% effective and can last up to three years depending on what brand you choose! You can have it removed at any time and resume your normal menstrual cycle.
This is a great solution for those who know they don’t want to have children for at least a few years. The downside is that it’s more expensive than the pill because you have to pay for the implantation and removal office visits. Check with your gynecologist to see if the implant is covered by your health care.
The IUD
IUD stands for intrauterine device. An IUD is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted directly into your uterus by your gynecologist. There are two types of IUD–hormonal and non-hormonal.
Hormonal IUDs
Hormonal IUDs work by releasing minute amounts of progestin directly into your uterus. This prevents ovulation and therefore pregnancy. Many people who struggle with hormonal birth control like the pill have better luck with the IUD because the dose is so much smaller and not released directly into the bloodstream.
Many women who use IUDs choose this birth control method because of its longevity. 3 to seven years of coverage depending on the brand you choose! And since there is almost no room for human error, it’s over 99% effective.
The Copper IUD
To prevent pregnancy, the copper IUD does not require hormones. Copper acts as a natural spermicide, repelling sperm. There is no fertilization if the sperm does not reach the egg. The copper IUD is an excellent alternative for folks who cannot use hormonal contraception because it is 99.9% effective and can last up to 12 years.
One disadvantage is that the copper IUD’s inflammation might lead to heavier periods and more unpleasant cramps in the first few months of use. This is generally not a suitable fit for persons who have endometriosis or have really heavy periods.
Ask your gynecologist about the pros and cons of each kind of birth control for you. Everyone’s body is different, and your birth control choice should reflect the best option for your individual situation.
Looking for a Gynecologist in Little Rock?
At The Woman’s Clinic, our practitioners believe in creating a comfortable and compassionate environment for all of our patients. We do everything in our power to educate, comfort, guide, and treat our patients with the utmost respect.
If you’re looking for a gynecologist in Little Rock, contact us by filling out an appointment request form or give us a call at (501) 664-4131.
