WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for December, 1998: Re: Attn Dr. Hill

Re: Attn Dr. Hill

From: D. Ashley Hill, M.D. (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Sun, 6 Dec 1998 10:02:20 -0600 (CST)

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I just returned from a medical conference in New York, and am happy to report that the weather was great. They had record highs, which suited me just fine. It meant I could walk around without a coat (Florida folks hate coats) and my wife spent less while shopping!

The number 1 prescribed contraception method in our area is the birth control pill. In general, they are safe, very effective, and have "non contraceptive" benefits such as reducing anemia, shortening the length of the period, lessening period cramps, and reducing the risk of ovarian cancer (by about 70%).

IUDs are unquestionably effective, and are almost certainly safe, as long as one makes sure the patient does not have an active infection or is not at high risk for sexually transmitted infections. IUDs have obtained a bad reputation because of mishaps with certain types of IUDs many years ago. Think of it like driving a Ford Pinto (known to explode when hit from behind). If someone gave you a free Ford Pinto, you would likely say "no, thanks." Yet, if someone gave you a free Ford Mustang convertible, you would likely grab the keys, put the top down (well, you *are* in Canada, so maybe not), and take off. Modern IUDs are completely different than those of the past, and are considerably safer. The main risks of an IUD are perforating the back wall of the uterus when inserting it (about 1:1000 chance) and pelvic infection. Thus, one should not generally place an IUD in a patient, who, for example, has 12 different sexual partners! While the general population still fears IUDs, it is one of the most popular forms of birth control for doctors that I care for!

Finally, I don't know of any web sites for contraceptive types. Major gynecology textbooks, found at the nearest medical library, will have a nice summary. Try Comprehensive Gynecology, or Clinical Gynecologic Endocrinology and Infertility. Both are excellent general texts.

Good luck with everything. Have a nice holiday season!

-- Ashley Hill David Ashley Hill, M.D. Associate Director Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Florida Hospital Family Practice Residency Orlando, FL http://home.mpinet.net/dahmd

The above is intended for general medical education, and is not for specific medical advice. I apologize, but I am unable to answer personal e-mail due to time constraints.

Next message: Julia: "Can BCP's cause vaginal irritation?"
Previous message: D. Ashley Hill, M.D.: "Re: Tubal Ligation and possible pregnancy?"

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