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Ask
the Pharmacist By Ron and Marla Chapleau |
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Q: Why should I consider using an Inter-Uterine Device (IUD) for my birth control? A: IUDs are small “T-shaped” devices made up of a flexible plastic. There are two types: one releases copper and the other one releases the female hormone progestin. They both affect the way sperm move thereby preventing sperm from joining with an egg. Furthermore, the progestin type helps prevent ovulation as well. Both need to be inserted by a physician which may seem inconvenient but their effectiveness lasts for years. They have been a fairly popular form of birth control in Europe but have never really caught on in North America where the “pill” has been the choice for decades. New data may, however, give more females reason to consider this option. A recent study published in "The Lancet Oncology" found that women who use IUDs have a 50-per-cent less risk of developing cervical cancer and that these reductions are shown right from the first year of use. Researchers believe this protective effect may be due to trauma to the cervix caused by the initial insertion of the device rather than any chemical-type effect (this has lent hope that perhaps PAP smears may offer the same protection). Women who use the progestin-releasing IUD also get the benefit of sharply lower rates of endometrial cancer, similarly to contraceptive pills. When this new finding is added to other possible benefits provided by IUDs, it is an option that might better meet the needs of some females.
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Already, IUDs provide the following possible benefits:
no change in your normal hormone levels (with the copper IUD),
reduced or eliminated menstrual cramps and flows (with the progestin
type), better pregnancy prevention rates, allow spontaneity in the
sex life, may be used during breast-feeding, less expensive in the
long-term, low risk of side effects, no need to remember to take a
pill, start to work right away and user satisfaction rates in the
mid 90 per cent. There are drawbacks as well, of course, so a discussion with your physician is a wise course of action as always. For more information about this or any other health-related questions, contact the pharmacists at Gordon Pharmasave, Your Health and Wellness Destination Scrolling stops when you move your mouse inside the scroll area. You can click on the ads for more
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