How to Prepare for Your First Pregnancy Ultrasound
Ultrasounds provide a safe and effective way of viewing your growing baby. Read on to learn more about why they are done and what you can expect at the appointment.
There are many types of birth control including condoms, the pill, and more. However, not all get the same amount of attention. One example is the intrauterine device, or IUD, which is both safe and effective.
Dr. Thomas Hatchett and Britteny Barron, our midwife nurse practitioner, offer a wide range of personalized care for women of all ages at Habersham OBGYN in Demorest, Georgia. Whether you're having a baby, experiencing a gynecological problem, or seeking out the best type of birth control for your situation, we can help.
An IUD is a small device shaped like a “T” that is placed inside the uterus to stop sperm from reaching a woman's eggs and fertilizing them. This prevents pregnancy. It can be used from 3-10 years depending on the type.
There are a number of myths surrounding IUDs. Getting the facts is an important step for a woman in making the correct decision about which type of birth control is best for her.
Myth: IUDs are not as effective as other types of birth control.
Fact: IUDs are very effective and result in less than one pregnancy out of 100 women per year. That's a success rate of more than 99 percent.
Myth: IUDs are all the same.
Fact: There are several kinds of IUDs. One type is made of copper and keeps sperm away from the egg by taking advantage of its dislike of the metal. Others are manufactured from plastic and use the hormone progestin to prevent pregnancy.
Myth: IUDs cause side effects and health issues.
Fact: IUDs are safe. They normally remain in the uterus and never move anywhere outside of the abdomen. They don't cause cancer nor do they increase the chance of contracting a sexually transmitted infection. Copper IUDs do not release copper into the bloodstream and long-time users of this type of intrauterine device show similar levels of copper to those without an IUD.
Myth: IUDs cause issues after they're removed.
Fact: People may fear using an IUD could result in problems like infertility, an ectopic pregnancy, or miscarriage. This is not true. There is no increase in the risk of infertility in women who have used IUDs. Similarly, there is no increased chance of ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage after removal.
Myth: IUDs should only be used by women who are older or who have had children.
Fact: Intrauterine devices are safe for a wide variety of women. They can be used at any age, though they should be removed after menopause has been reached. Women who have not had children can also use this type of birth control.
Which type of pregnancy prevention method to use is a personal decision that a woman or couple should make based on their situation. If you're seeking more information about the different possibilities, we can help. Call our office at 706-229-4233 for an appointment today or book one online.
