Everything You Need to Know About IUDs: The Most Effective Form of Contraception

There are a few birth control methods to prevent pregnancy, and the intrauterine device is one of them. Generally, it is popular as IUDs contraception in medical terms. Do you know that its popularity increasing day by day among women?

One reason can be its long-term duration and hassle-free methodology for birth control. Another can be that it is considered the most effective form of contraception. 

IUD is a T-shaped device that is used to prevent pregnancy. The device is made of plastic or copper that is inserted into the uterus by doctors or women’s health specialists.

 

How does it exactly work?

how IUDs work

The IUDs contraception further divide into two categories: hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonal IUDs work by releasing a small amount of progestin hormone. This hormone is exactly similar to the one present in birth control pills. Its work is to thicken the cervical mucus which doesn’t let sperm reach the egg.

On the other hand, non-hormonal IUDs are covered with copper wire. It creates an inflammatory reaction in the uterus which prevent fertilization with its toxic behavior toward sperm.

The procedure of these IUD types is done under professional care. The healthcare providers insert IUD into the uterus and leave it in the same place for up to 3-12 years, based on the type of IUD.

 

Need To Know: IUD devices are reversible. Any woman who wants to become pregnant can get it removed anytime.

 

Benefits of IUDs

Extremely Effective Device– IUDs have a very lower failure rate of less than 1%. Even it is considered as the most effective form of contraception.

Long-Lasting Results – Well, it is based on the type of IUD you are using, but it can provide up to 3-12 years without any maintenance.

No Daily Routine – IUDs don’t need any on-demand or daily usage as birth control pills or condoms are. So, it isn’t required to follow a daily routine. 

Secure – IUDs contraception are known to be the safest device with very few side effects. Even it is the best option for those women who don’t prefer hormone birth control methods because of their health issues.

Easily reversible – IUD can be removed if a woman wants to become pregnant again or no longer wants to use this device.

 

Who shouldn’t allow using an IUD?

IUDs

The use of IUDs contraception is common and effective, but there are certain situations in which women are suggested to not use an IUD. Some of the reasons are as follows:

  • If you’re pregnant, you may avoid the use of an IUD.
  • If you already have an active sexually transmitted infection (STI).
  • If you’re at potential risk for contracting an STI.
  • If you have unexplained and over-vaginal bleeding.

Besides, you are suggested to not use copper IUDs if you have an allergy or any genetic disease related to copper.

 

What happens before an IUD is inserted?

IUD insertion

First of all, your healthcare provider will enquire about your health and lifestyle to ensure you’re ready for IUD  insertion. There will be two tests happens, including pregnancy tests or STIs beforehand to ensure your health updates.

You can talk to your health provider about the volume of the pain and its management before the procedure. Some women tolerate the pain while IUD insertion without any problem. Others avoid it only because they feared from the thought of its experience.

In such a situation, it is good if you take the advice of your healthcare provider. They can recommend you the best pain medication beforehand to lower the pain. Also, you may not feel discomfort after insertion. Well, the providers may numb the area of insertion before the procedure to keep you comfortable. However, it is essential to communicate openly with your provider to avoid anxiety and lessen the fear of getting an IUD treatment.

 

How to get an IUD insertion?

IUDs insertion

It is a good decision if you’re interested in an IUD insertion. For that, you may talk to the healthcare providers by visiting the nearest birth control clinic. They can detect and help you to decide which IUD can be suited best to you as per your medical history, lifestyle, and preferences.

In addition, the IUD insertion process usually takes 10 minutes or less. The process can be done in the healthcare provider’s office. The provider inserts the IUD through the cervix or into your uterus. It may discomfort you for a few minutes during the procedure but then all will be okay. After insertion, you can follow your normal activities and routine.

 

Conclusion

To conclude the above information related to IUDs contraception, including its procedure and benefits, may guide you well with the procedure. This device is safe, effective, and long-lasting to prevent pregnancy in the long term or for birth control. Its benefits always outweigh its demerits if you go through proper healthcare consultancy. If you’re interested in IUD insertion, make sure to talk to your nearest women’s health clinic. Her Smart Choice is always here to listen to your queries and provide the right guidance.


The Importance of Comprehensive Sexual Education for Promoting Healthy Choices

Nowadays, comprehensive sex education (CSE) seems to be a crucial part of both male and female lives and their sexual and reproductive healthcare. Furthermore, it promotes a good understanding of making healthy choices in sexual activities. The leading women’s health clinic, Her Smart Choice, also supports the promotion of healthy choices and comprehensive sexual education.

This approach aims to provide you with an accurate education on sexual health, whether it is age-appropriate or cultural information. CSE also covers a wide range of terms, such as puberty, anatomy and physiology, relationships, sexual orientation, and STI prevention and treatment.

 

Reasons Why Comprehensive Sexual Education Is Essential


importance of comprehensive sexual health

There are some reasons that depict the importance of comprehensive sexual education to promote healthy choices. To know the details, read the following passages:

Promotes informed decision-making: The education services related to comprehensive sexuality help young people and adults know everything about their bodies and sexuality. Also, it allows them to make informed decisions related to their sexual behavior. It includes when they have to start sex, the kind of contraception they can use, and protection tips from STIs.

Reduce the risk of sexual behavior: It has been seen in many studies that comprehensive sexual education can reduce the beginning risk factors related to sexual behavior. It includes a lack of knowledge about early sexual debut, protected sex, and multiple sexual partners. This approach can help the youth make healthy choices and prevent them from developing STIs, unintended pregnancies, and HIV/AIDS.

Promotes good and healthy relationships: Further, this approach can be related to promoting healthy relationships among young people of both genders. It can also improve their communication skills. Later, this information can assist young people in building positive and strong relationships based on mutual trust, respect, and consent.

Addresses gender and sexual diversity: This education helps in recognizing gender identities and sexual orientation. It further helps reduce discrimination and stigma. On the other hand, it also promotes acceptance among all individuals, regardless of their sexual or gender identity.

Benefits of Comprehensive Sex Education for Adolescents and Young People


sex education benefits

It has been seen that young people who are equipped with comprehensive sex education studies or programs in school demonstrate healthy sexual behavior, such as:

  • Increased use of condoms and contraception.
  • Lower rate of unplanned pregnancies.
  • Fewer cases of STIs and HIV

Impact on social-emotional health

  • A clear understanding of reproductive rights and responsibilities.
  • Understanding gender and sexuality
  • A lower percentage of sexual assault, dating violence, and child sexual abuse.
  • Stronger communication skills and relationships
  • Knowledge of STD testing to detect infection and avoid risks.
  • Reduce homophobia and related bullying.

Generally, this approach is based on a curriculum that not only limits risk reduction but also ensures that youth are supported at every step. Whether it is about their identity and sexuality or making decisions for the future, relationships, or behavior, CSE supports all these critical benefits.

Impacts of a lack of access to CSE

If youth are not allowed to gain comprehensive sex education, then they may get away from the information and skills needed for healthy sexual development. The impacts of the lack of CSE include:

  • Lack of knowledge about using condoms increases the risk of STIs, such as HIV.
  • Lack of knowledge enhances the stigma of gender and sexual identity.
  • Avoiding the use of contraception may lead to unplanned pregnancy risk.
  • Have to face challenges in interpersonal communications.
  • Higher chances of young people turning to unreliable sources to obtain sex information.
  • Increase the chances of intimate partner and dating violence.
  • Unsafe school environments.
  • Decrease valid media literacy.
  • Lower chances of social-emotional learning.

In addition, the lack of access to comprehensive sex education can cause health disparities and imbalances, with inappropriate impacts on particular populations of youth.

Specifically, youth who identify as women, face color discrimination, have disabilities, or are LGBTQ2S are discriminated against or impacted while accessing comprehensive sex education. Otherwise, the lack of knowledge can impact their safety, health, and self-identity.

Common Elements in Comprehensive Sex Education Programs

elements of sex education programs

There are several elements that are common in sex education programs and are essential:

  • It is essential to use a medically accurate and evidence-based curriculum that can also include disabled young people.
  • The information, strategies, methods, teaching, and materials must be appropriate and developed.

Must have knowledge of the following topics:

  • Human development: It consists of body image, puberty, gender identity, anatomy, and sexual orientation.
  • Personal Skills: It include values, assertiveness, negotiation, decision-making, communication, and help-seeking.
  • Society and Culture: It includes gender roles, the intersection of sexuality, diversity and religion, law, arts, and media.
  • Relationships: These consist of families, dating, peers, marriage, and raising children activities.
  • Sexual behavior: It includes masturbation, pleasure from sex, and shared behavior across a lifetime.

 

  • Sexual Health. It includes contraception, prenatal care, abortion, HIV, sexual abuse, and violence.

Overall

In this article, you will clearly understand the requirement of comprehensive sex education for aware youth. It helps them to prepare for every situation and to follow the right methods while entering into sensual relations. You may get to know the reasons that have a great effect on the attainment of sexual education. Still, if you are a woman and want to get more details, reach out to HSC’s Gynecological Services in California.


The Debate on Abortion and Reproductive Justice: Examining Diverse Perspectives

Many of you might have great confusion between two concepts when it comes to describing women’s health’s imperative work. Often, people use the terms “reproductive justice” and “reproductive rights” as synonyms for each other. Besides, it’s not exactly the same as you think. The two of these are philosophically different from each other. Let’s dive into the article to get a clear picture of this concept.

 

Reproductive Rights: The legal rights that help women access reproductive health care services, such as birth control and medical abortion in California and other states. Women can easily obtain an abortion, birth control, and other related services from a local abortion clinic. But, do you think all women have the same rights?

However, it has been seen that women’s right to abortion is cemented by the Supreme Court. According to this, a woman has the right to decide whether she wants an abortion or not.

 

Reproductive Justice: If you cannot access the services you are eligible for, this will show the critical nature of reproductive justice. Besides, reproductive justice links reproductive rights with political, social, and economic inequalities, which further affects a woman’s ability to access reproductive health care services.

Core Components of Reproductive Justice

reproductive justics

Anyhow, the core components of reproductive justice consist of some familiar terms, such as affordable contraceptives, comprehensive sex education, free from sexual violence, and safe access to medical abortion.

Having a legal abortion is a crucial matter, but it is not the only issue in your state. The primary concern is, one has access to it to get things done well. To exemplify, some women have to make hard-core efforts and face many hurdles to access abortion services. Especially, when:

  • It becomes difficult for women to visit abortion clinics due to multiple jobs and household pressure.
  • If the local clinics don’t have the reproductive services that they need, then a woman has to travel to the abortion clinic.

These are some more issues that women are facing that restrict their access to reproductive health care services. But now it is resolved to a greater extent using telehealth solutions by abortion clinics.

 

Climate crisis relation to reproductive justice issues

reproductive justice issue

Limited access to reproductive cases or striking down abortion rights may have negative economic and health effects. Further, which is further affected by climate change.

Environmental disasters come up every year and reshape social structures and economies. Here, the question raised is how communities and their health, safety, and freedom rights get affected by a change. Do the inequalities judgments passed on the low-income community and on a racial basis ever stopped?

Reproductive Justice Link With Reproductive Health

reproductive health

In general terms, reproductive justice represents a framework that links reproductive health and rights with social justice. This term was coined by women of color after an international conference and a reproductive justice moment. The term found that there are multiple factors that affect women’s reproductive health.

Further, reproductive justice addresses many critical issues. Many women consider abortion their main issue, no doubt that it is indeed crucial. But many women, particularly those of color, racism, and low income, face difficulty in accessing contraception, comprehensive sex education, pregnancy care, alternative birth options, etc. Even they might be disregarded from domestic violence assistance, the right to deserved wages, family support, safe homes and so much more.

 

Injustice doesn’t end here….

The injustice doesn’t end here, even the right to parent is often under threat. because of social discrimination. An analysis of reproductive justice also understands the reproductive oppression that some women experience due to color and community differences. Further, it represents biological and social exploitation of women, and other individuals through bodies, sexuality, and reproduction. This oppression can be done by society, families, and communities.

The inequality paradigm that addresses the multiple dimensions at the core of reproductive justice admits the oppression system. Not only this, many women face discrimination based on race, gender, age, ability, immigration status, and other related factors.

Undoubtedly, the intersecting terms of oppression and discrimination always resulted in power, privilege, and resources, as per historical views. Women with discrimination have limited access to resources and power.

Whereas abortion clinic in Los Angeles supports reproductive justice and aims to bring the complete physical, spiritual, mental, social, economic, and political well-being of girls and women. Also, it desires complete achievement of women’s human rights and the protection of their reproductive rights. 

 

Summing Up

To sum up, access to abortion is not limited to the right to decide whether you want a baby or not or when to become pregnant. It is quite more than this, including racial, economic, and environmental justice issues.

These basic human rights to control your body, live in a healthy environment, the right to choose to have something or not, and reproductive care, were all oppressed in the past years, but now justice is by the side of women. Women’s rights should not be neglected, and they aren’t biased on the basis of income or racial inequality.

Indeed, abortion clinics in California guide you with strong local laws to protect reproductive freedom, including the right to safe and legal abortion without any discrimination. If you feel your healthcare rights are getting violated, you can immediately lodge a complaint on the government site.


Do abortion and Contraception have a complex relationship?

Abortion and contraception are two distinct parts of the same coin. The motive of both concepts is somewhere similar, that is not to become pregnant. But still, both concepts have certain specifications and differences that make them slightly different from each other. Let’s dive into the blog to learn more about contraception and abortion.

Undoubtedly women’s rights consist of contraception access, family planning, and reproductive care. The Family Planning Center in California also supports women’s right to abortion and contraception. Also, it is essential for people to recognize the importance of family planning.

What do you mean by Contraceptives?

In Contraceptives, women and young girls are allowed to choose whether they want to be pregnant or not, spacing of their children, and a stress-free life without any risk of sudden pregnancies. Not only this, but contraception helps women in strengthening socioeconomic prospectus and expands academic possibilities for young girls.

How do contraceptives help Women?

how contraceptives help women

An unplanned pregnancy is not the only danger to a woman’s health but it also enhances the risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), HIV, and AIDS.

As per the research, Every single day in the world, over a million cases of STIs are developed. STIs include the risks like infertility, cervical cancer, premature births, and poor pregnancy. Here Contraceptives work well for women and girls of young age to prevent all these risks.

How to access Contraceptives in Women Health Clinic

Nowadays, a large number of women are preferring contraception because of its significant results. Further, access to contraception is quite challenging for women. Especially for immigrants, women with disabilities, and low-income segments, women face multiple forms of discrimination in almost all walks of life, whether it is in the workplace or in their personal life.

However, the use of Contraception varies from nation to nation, but women in underdeveloped or developing nations face great difficulty in fulfilling their contraception needs. However, women’s health clinics help you in getting awareness of how to access Contraceptives and protect yourself from unwanted threats of pregnancy. 

Define Abortion & safe access to it

Abortion, on the other hand, includes the medical procedure to end a pregnancy by expulsion of a fetus. It can be done in two ways through an abortion medicine or surgery in a safe abortion clinic. However, surgery is considered safer as it causes less pain whereas the abortion medicine procedure goes a little long.

It is essential to have access to a safe abortion, otherwise, it can cause severe harm to pregnant women. According to some previous reports, unsafe abortion not only violates women’s rights but is also responsible for 13% of all maternal deaths in the world. Also, there are thousands of survivors who face long-term issues related to infertility and serious pain.

Women’s Health – Right to Abortion & Contraception

abortion and contraception

Motherhood becomes a choice for women nowadays. As time flees, it becomes more popular among women and the usage of contraception has continued to increase. Also, it puts a significant impact on women’s health. Contraception and safe abortion methods are related to physical, mental, and social well-being and save the lives of many women in the world from unintended pregnancy danger. Besides, these methods also increase child and infant survival rates.

The Right to Abortion and Contraception

  • Save Life – Unsafe abortions take the lives of thousands of women each year. The measurement of  Contraception depicts that it saves lives because one-fourth of pregnancies end in abortion worldwide.
  • Promotes Healthy Living – Rights to contraception and abortion help the women and girls who are not asked whether they want children or not. Even if they are unable to pursue a career or obtain the right education to support their large families.
  • Support Women’s Health Care – The choice of the above-mentioned methods transforms healthcare as they provide the ability for females to make choices. This support not only gives them physical strength but also empowers them with social and economic development. It allows people to access their rights while easing the strain of healthcare institutions.

Complex Relationship: Contraception and Abortion

Both terms are alternative means of preventing unplanned pregnancies and childbirths. So, it’s clear from the meaning of contraception that the populations who access it have a low frequency of abortion, whereas, the nations where the contraception is low have a high rate of abortion. Besides, reality is more complex and interesting.

Well, not all abortions are unplanned or unwelcomed pregnancies, the termination of pregnancies also follows the fetal abnormalities and risk to the mother’s life.

Summary: Contraception & Abortion are alternatives

To avoid unwanted childbearing, contraception, and abortion are considered the best but alternative ways. From the above-given information, you must realize one thing: the rise in one will lead to fall in the other.

But this connection is not as simple as it looks because of the influence of other factors. These also include how long you have a sexually active reproductive life; the number of children you desire or want. Yet, the research shows that countries with high usage of contraception will have low abortion rates and vice versa. For more details, reach out to a leading women’s health clinic, Her Smart Choice.


Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): What You Need to Know

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects 1 in 10 women of childbearing age and is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. 

It is characterized by the presence of numerous small cysts on the ovaries as well as other hormonal, metabolic, and reproductive abnormalities that can adversely affect your ability to conceive a baby.

 

What causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it is thought to be linked to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. 

Research suggests that the condition may be caused by an imbalance in the hormones, such as androgens and insulin, or by certain genetic factors, including changes in the number or structure of certain genes. 

It is possible that PCOS is caused by a combination of these factors.

 

What are the risks of PCOS?

Women with PCOS may be at increased risk for developing certain metabolic and reproductive health conditions, such as insulin resistance, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, infertility, endometrial cancer, depression, and anxiety. 

Women with PCOS may also be at increased risk for developing polycystic ovarian syndrome-related complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm birth, and miscarriage.

 

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

 

The most common symptoms of PCOS include 

  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Excessive hair growth on the face
  • Chest and back acne
  • Weight gain

Women may also experience:

  • Thinning hair on the scalp
  • Infertility
  • Acne
  • Pelvic pain

 

How is PCOS diagnosed?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is diagnosed through a physical examination, blood tests, and an ultrasound to look for ovarian cysts. Your doctor may also order a hormone test to check for elevated levels of androgens or insulin.

Treatment options for PCOS vary, depending on the individual’s symptoms and medical history. Treatment may include lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, to help improve the condition. 

Medications may also be prescribed to help regulate hormone levels and reduce symptoms.

 

What are the complications of PCOS?

Women with PCOS are at increased risk for developing certain metabolic and reproductive health conditions, including obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, infertility, endometrial cancer, depression, and anxiety. 

Besides this, women with PCOS may be at increased risk for developing complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, and miscarriage.

 

Living with PCOS

Living with PCOS can be challenging, but with just a few changes in your lifestyle, you can overcome this condition. There are ways to manage the condition and its symptoms.

  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Exercising regularly
  • Reducing stress
  • Getting enough sleep

All these factors can help improve symptoms of PCOS. 

Also, don’t forget to visit the center for women’s health, and follow your doctor’s advice and take any medications prescribed.

 

When should I seek medical care?

women's health clinic

If you think you may have PCOS, it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible. Your doctor can diagnose the condition and recommend treatment options that are best for you.

Medications can be prescribed to regulate the hormones that cause the symptoms of PCOS. Birth control pills are commonly used to regulate hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle.

PCOS can be a difficult condition to manage, but with proper treatment, women can live healthy and happy lives. If you think you may be suffering from PCOS, it is important to speak to your doctor about your symptoms and the possible treatments available.


Category: Blog, Women's Health
partial birth abortion blog banner image

Are Partial Birth Abortions Legal

The debate over partial-birth abortions is one that has been raging for years. Proponents of the procedure say that it is a safe and necessary option for women who are faced with difficult pregnancies. 

 

Opponents argue that the procedure is barbaric and should be banned outright. 

 

So, where does the law stand on partial-birth abortions? Are they legal in the United States?

 

Let’s take a look…

What is a partial birth abortion and how is it performed?

partial birth abortion

A partial birth abortion is an extremely controversial procedure performed in the late stages of a pregnancy. Generally considered a form of “induced miscarriage,” this procedure requires the uterus to be dilated so that a doctor can remove the fetus, while keeping their head inside the birth canal. This allows most of the body to be delivered intact, with just scalpel cuts made at the base of the skull to allow for evacuation. 

 

👉  However, due to moral and ethical issues surrounding this procedure it has been illegal in some countries since 1995 and in the United States since 2003. 

 

It remains an area of debate however, with both sides weighing up medical risks versus legal rights when it comes to pregnancy termination.

Why do some people believe that partial birth abortions should be legal?

Some people believe that partial birth abortions should be legal because they see it as an important form of reproductive freedom for women, particularly those in difficult situations.

 

For instance, the procedure could save the life of the mother, if her health and well-being is threatened due to present or complex medical conditions. Additionally, allowing for such a procedure allows for a woman to make choices about her body and her health that she may have been denied in more restrictive countries where all abortions are illegal. 

 

Giving women autonomy over their health and reproductive choices by allowing partial birth abortions is at the crux of supporting this controversial decision.

What are the arguments against partial birth abortions being legal?

arguments against partial abortions

Partial birth abortions are a highly contentious issue, with passionate opinions on both sides. Some argue against their legality due to the opinion that they are inhumane and cruel, as they involve the partially extracted fetus being terminated during or just prior to delivery. 

 

In addition, there is disagreement over how late into a pregnancy partial birth abortions should be allowed; opponents argue that any abortion beyond 20 weeks gestation puts a human life at risk, and should thus be illegal. 

 

Some have pointed out that medical studies have found the risks of an abortion procedure increase the further along a pregnancy is, particularly for women’s health. 

 

Consequently, those opposed to these types of abortions believe restricting them ensures greater safety for mothers and unborn children alike.

How does the law currently stand on partial birth abortions in the United States ?

Partial birth abortions are a hot button issue in the United States legal system. Currently, the nationwide law concerning partial birth abortions is that they are only permitted if necessary to save a pregnant woman’s life. 

 

This was determined by the Supreme Court in the 2007 case Gonzales v Carhart. However, President Trump did sign legislation expanding and strengthening existing regulations on this procedure in 2019. So, it is important for those wanting to understand how partial birth abortion law currently stands in the U.S to be aware of this new federal bill. 

 

Not only does it ban most types of late term abortions but also promotes a strict punishment for anyone who attempts to perform or facilitate these procedures – with few exceptions granted such as to preserve a woman’s health or save her life. 

 

This debate over abortion rights continues to have an impact on patients and healthcare providers alike, making understanding the current laws essential knowledge.

What are some possible implications if partial birth abortions were to become illegal ?

The implications of partial birth abortions becoming illegal are immense and far-reaching. There would be a sharp decline in the number of safe, legal abortions available to pregnant women, as this procedure is particularly safe for those in their third trimester. 

 

Women could not turn to the procedure for their own health or to protect the child from severe health defects – rendering them with limited choices and an enormous moral burden. Without access to safe procedures, there is also likely to be an increase in unsafe abortion practices. 

 

This would put many vulnerable people at risk of potentially fatal injury or illness due to inadequate medical oversight and lack of knowledge about how best to perform the procedure safely.

Contact us to know more about the facts associated with partial abortion.

 

 


Gynecologists

Gynecologists: Right Time To Visit & What To Expect?

Women’s health should be the highest priority, especially when she is of reproductive age. This is due to the fact that women of this age range have unique needs and challenges that have to be met in order for them to remain healthy and safe.

For instance, issues such as contraception, fertility, sexual health, and mental health all need to be acknowledged at an early stage.

If you’re a woman of reproductive age, you should be visiting a gynecologist at least once a year. 

But what exactly is a gynecologist? 

And what can you expect during your visit? 

Here’s everything you need to know about this vital healthcare provider.  

 

What Is a Gynecologist?

 

A gynecologist is a health practitioner who specializes in women’s health. Many women see their primary care physician for their annual wellness exam and Pap smear but there are some occasions when it is necessary to see a gynecologist. 

Life lesson: Your annual gynecologist appointment is one of the most important things you can do for your health—yet many women still don’t understand what a gynecologist does or when to see one. Here we dispel the myths and give you the facts about this essential doctor.

 

Reasons To See A Gynecologist

 

Here are some reasons why you may need to schedule an appointment with gynecologists.

 

A gynecologist can provide insight into a woman’s family background, allowing her to recognize her risk for certain diseases and understand the implications of passing them on to future generations.


Furthermore, by exploring a woman’s family background, she may also be able to determine whether she has an increased risk of inheriting specific hereditary conditions.

A gynecologist can help to fill in gaps in family history which may help aid with individualized assessments of women’s health and any associated preventive measures that need to be taken.

Having access to the knowledge and unique insights offered by a genealogist ensures that all women have greater awareness of their own potential health risks, equipping them with the information and support needed for protection of their long-term health.

 

When To See A Gynecologist

 

  • Women should see a gynecologist for the first time when they turn 18 or become sexually active. 
  • Women should see a gynecologist once a year for a routine checkup, even if they are not sexually active. 
  • If you are experiencing any changes in your body, such as discharge, pain, or irregular periods, you should make an appointment with a gynecologist. 
  • You should also see a gynecologist if you are thinking about becoming pregnant or have any questions about contraception. 
  • Gynecologists can also provide information and support if you have been diagnosed with an STD.

 

What To Expect During A Gynecologist Visit

 

Visiting the gynecologist can be a daunting experience, especially if you’ve never been before. But there’s no need to worry! 

If you’re like most women, you probably have some questions and concerns about visiting a gynecologist. Here’s what you can expect during your first visit. 

  • During your first visit, your doctor will likely take a medical history and perform a physical exam. 
  • They may also order tests, such as a Pap smear or urine test, to screen for certain conditions.
  • Be sure to ask any questions you have so that you can feel comfortable and prepared for your next visit.

 

Qualifications Of A Genealogist

 

  1. A gynecologist should have a medical degree from an accredited institution
  2. They should be licensed to practice medicine in the United States
  3. They should have completed a residency in obstetrics and gynecology
  4. They should be board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology
  5. They should have experience working with patients of all ages
  6. They should be able to provide comprehensive care for their patients, including preventative care, pregnancy care, and menopausal care.

 

What Is A Board-certified Gynecologist?

 

A board-certified gynecologist is a health professional who specializes in the reproductive and sexual health of people with female anatomy. 

 

They seek to promote healthy reproduction, prevent diseases, diagnose and treat disorders of the reproductive system and identify any risks associated with pregnancy or motherhood. 

Board-certified gynecologists are specialized experts in illnesses related to female sexuality, as well as empaths and confidants throughout significant life transitions involving reproduction. 

 

From adolescence to menopause, gynecologists provide comprehensive annual exams and screenings, personal health advice tailored to each individual’s body and lifestyle choices, emergency care for gynecological needs, contraception counseling and access, surgical consultation for issues such as fibroids or cancer treatment.

 

Final Verdict

 

A visit to the gynecologist or women’s health clinic should be a regular part of your healthcare regimen for maintaining a healthy reproductive system. While it’s wise to schedule an appointment here and there for any worries or concerns, regularly scheduling visits into your routine can help catch issues before they become serious. 

During your appointment, you can generally expect medical history questions, a discussion about current health and lifestyle changes, advice on birth control, if necessary, and sometimes lab tests. Depending on the concern and/or doctor’s orders, they may also perform an exam to get detailed information about potential issues. 

Rest assured that gynecologists are highly trained professionals and will make sure to answer any questions you may have or offer additional advice on staying healthy.

 


What is STD

What Does STD Mean?

Her Smart Choice Women’s Health Center Educational Series Presents ‘What Does STD Mean?’

What Does STD Mean? – It’s a sexually transmitted disease.
If you have sex, oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse and or genital touching, you can get an STD, also called a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
You’re straight or gay, married or single, and vulnerable to STIs symptoms.
Thinking or hoping your partner doesn’t have an STI is no protection; you need to know.

 

What are the causes of STDs?
The causes of STDs are viral or bacterial infections. STDs that are caused due to bacterial infections are treated using antibiotics.
There is no cure for STDs caused by viral infections, but you can take measures to treat std symptoms.

What factors increase your risk of contracting an STD?
The below-mentioned factors can increase your risk of contracting an STD:
⚹ Having sex with greater than one partner
⚹ Having a sexual partner who themselves has sex with greater than one partner either currently or in the past
⚹ Having sex with a person who has an STD or STI
⚹ Having a personal history of STDs/STIs
⚹ Using intravenous drugs or if your partner uses intravenous drugs

What are the most commonly occurring STDs?
Some of the commonly occurring STDs are:
⚹ Chlamydia
⚹ Genital herpes
⚹ Gonorrhea
⚹ HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection
⚹ Syphilis
⚹ HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
⚹ Hepatitis B
⚹ Trichomoniasis

How can you prevent STDs?
The following are the top five methods to prevent STDs:

Abstinence
Abstaining from having all types of sexual contact, i.e., vaginal, oral, or anal, is the most efficient and reliable method to avoid contracting an STD. However, most individuals don’t find abstinence a practical way of dealing with the situation.

Vaccination
Getting a vaccine is a safe and effective method recommended to prevent HPV and hepatitis B. The HPV vaccine for both females and males may protect against certain common forms of HPV. It is recommended that you get all three shots (doses) before engaging in sexual activity. However, an HPV vaccine is recommended for all teen girls and females after the age of 26 and all teen boys and males after the age of 21 who were not given the three shots or doses of HPV vaccine before (at a younger age). You must also get a hepatitis B vaccine if you have not received the vaccine before (at a younger age).

Reduce the number of your sex partners
Reducing the number of sex partners can also decrease contracting an STD. It is also essential to know about the sexual history of your partner. The more significant number of partners you have, the greater your risk of getting an STD. The same is also true for your sexual partners, i.e., if they have more partners, it still increases your risk. You and your sexual partner should get tested for STDs. Moreover, both of you should share the results of your tests with each other.

Mutual monogamy
The meaning of mutual monogamy is that you have agreed to have sex with only one individual who has also decided to have sex with you. Having a long-term relationship that is mutually monogamous is among the most effective and reliable methods to prevent STDs.

Use condoms
Using male condoms made of latex correctly and consistently is incredibly effective in reducing the transmission of STDs. You must use a latex condom each time you are involved in vaginal, oral, or anal sex. You can also use a female condom while having vaginal intercourse. You should use dental dams or condoms while having oral sex and gloves during manual penetration.

In case of using a lubricant, be sure to use a water-based lubricant. It is essential to use condoms during the entire sexual act. Though condoms aren’t 100% effective in preventing STDs, they are still highly effective.

 

For additional information, please visit www.HerSmartChoice.com or call
323-250-9360

Get SOCIAL with us!

Her Smart Choice 
Your Life. Your Decision. Your Smart Choice.

#hersmartchoice #hscmc #birthcontrol #stis #stds #sti #std #gonorrhea #chlamydia #gonorrhea #syphilis #trichomoniasis #gynecology #medicine #womenshealth #obstetrics #obgyn #medical #gynecologist


Is it safe to take Birth Control Pills and Antidepressants at the same time?

With Antidepressant Prescriptions Skyrocketing in the United States, it creates a unique debate for women – who to listen to? Their Psychiatrist or OB/GYN?

The incidence of depression has increased drastically over the past few decades. Women are more prone to develop depression due to several factors that are common as well as completely independent of the causative factors in men. 

 

The mounting job pressure, demands of career and family responsibilities, commuting to workplace, academic failures, loss of near ones, and an unpleasant event in life are the factors that can make men as well as women prone to develop depression.

 

Factors such as postpartum depression and premenstrual syndrome occur specifically in women resulting in mild to severe depression.

With Antidepressant Prescriptions Skyrocketing in United States, it creates a unique debate for women - who to listen to? Their Psychiatrist or OB/GYN?

Since these conditions tend to occur during the reproductive years, it is likely that women would have to use antidepressants prescribed for relieving depression together with birth control pills. 

 

Hence, there is a need to understand how birth control pills and antidepressants interact with each other and whether it is safe to use both these medications at the same time.

 

Why is it important to understand the interactions between birth control pills and antidepressants?

Is it safe to take birth control pills and antidepressants at the same time?

 

 

 

Generally speaking, most antidepressants do not interact with the action of oral contraceptive pills, also called birth control pills. For example; wo

men who are using hormonal contraceptives may be prescribed an antidepressant like Prozac if they suffer from symptoms such as extreme mood changes, lack of interest in daily activities, and so on. 

Prozac is a type of antidepressant containing fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).

In this case, Prozac may not interfere with the action of the birth control pills causing pregnancy. However, this doesn’t mean it is safe to use these medications together. Because the combined action of the two may potentially cause drastic changes in the mood. 

Antidepressants like Prozac are known to affect the production and release of hormones in the body. And since birth control pills are comprised of synthetically prepared female reproductive hormones like progesterone and estrogens, the risk of interaction between these medicines can not be ignored. 

Similarly, there are a number of antidepressants each having the potential to alter the body’s physiological processes and the hormonal balance. Hence, women in reproductive age who use birth control pills need to be aware of how these antidepressants can affect the action of their contraceptive pills in order to avoid side effects and prevent the reduced effectiveness of both. 

 

Birth control pills and antidepressants

 

As discussed earlier, women are likely to develop depression due to a number of reasons. Biological, relationships, lifestyle, psychosocial factors, pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding are the factors unique to women and thought to contribute to their higher risk of depression.

The hormonal changes occurring in the body before and during menses can result in a condition called premenstrual syndrome or PMS. The common signs and symptoms of PMS include mood changes, irritability, heaviness in the breasts, abdominal pain, and cramps in legs. 

In some cases, the symptoms are so severe that they prevent the woman from carrying out routine activities. Women who experience severe symptoms of PMS are often advised to use antidepressants. 

However, these drugs may worsen mood swings and irritability and even cause a failure of the contraceptive pills they are using. Also, the continuous use of antidepressants may not be appropriate or necessary in such cases as the symptoms tend to occur only before and during menstrual periods. These factors must be taken into consideration before women start using antidepressants to manage PMS while also using birth control pills. 

Similarly, women may also experience severe postpartum depression following childbirth due to the hormonal changes occurring in the body during this phase as well as the sudden lifestyle changes and challenges posed by motherhood. 

Breastfeeding itself acts as a natural method of contraception during the initial few months after delivery when the mother is breastfeeding the child. However, once the woman stops breastfeeding, she may need to use birth control pills to avoid pregnancy until she feels she is ready for the second child. 

In this case, it is important to be aware of the interactions between the antidepressant she is using and the birth control pills, especially if the symptoms of postpartum depression are severe necessitating long-term use of the antidepressant drug.

Similarly, there are various other situations when women of reproductive age may have to use birth control pills and antidepressants together. This is why; women should take efforts to find out how these drugs affect each other’s actions, alter their effectiveness, or cause side effects. 

 

Use of birth control pills, and antidepressants for PMDD

PMDD or premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a condition similar to PMS. In fact, PMDD is a more intense form of typical premenstrual syndrome. The common signs of this condition are severe anxiety, extreme irritability, and drastic mood swings. 

Women who have a history of postpartum depression or mood disorders are prone to develop premenstrual dysphoric disorder. 

PMDD is often confused with depression as both these conditions cause similar symptoms such as sadness, despair, increased sensitivity to criticism, suicidal thoughts, and so on. The use of antidepressants is common in women with PMDD. However, it should be noted that the symptoms of PMDD are linked to the hormonal changes typically occurring around ovulation and before periods.  

Hence, the use of antidepressants may not be appropriate in such cases, especially if the woman is already using birth control pills and wishes to avoid pregnancy. 

It has been found that most women find remarkable relief in their symptoms of PMDD by simply using birth control pills. The use of oral contraceptives has been found to work more effectively than antidepressants in reducing the symptoms of PMDD as well as in some cases of PMS. Let us have a look at how birth control pills could help to relieve PMDD. 

Most birth control pills contain synthetic versions of female reproductive hormones called estrogens and progesterone. These hormones help to prevent conception by inhibiting the process of ovulation. These pills also provide the body with a steady dose of estrogens without any peaks or drastic fluctuations. This action helps to prevent the release of eggs by the ovaries. 

Later, oral contraceptive pills start delivering a fixed amount of progesterone to stop the growth of the uterine lining called endometrium. Finally, most birth control pills have a 7-day dosage schedule of placebos, which cause the hormonal levels to fall resulting in your periods to start. 

The menstrual flow that begins during the use of placebo pills is a withdrawal bleeding caused as a reaction to the lack of supply of hormones. This is the basic action by which most birth control pills help to prevent pregnancy.

Since these pills deliver estrogens and progesterone in steady doses, they can make the hormone levels in your body more predictable thereby controlling the symptoms caused due to hormonal imbalances.

For example; cramps in the legs and abdomen caused due to PMS or PMDD may be relieved by using oral contraceptives. These pills work by controlling the production of prostaglandin, which is responsible for causing excessive uterine contractions.

Also, mood swings, depression, and anxiety caused due to the fluctuations in the levels of hormones can also be relieved by the steady release of estrogens and progestogen achieved through the use of oral contraceptives. 

This points to the need to avoid or minimize the use of antidepressants and instead, use only birth control pills to relieve PMDD and PMS while preventing conception. This strategy can also allow women to avoid the side effects of antidepressants known to occur due to their prolonged usage.  

This is one of the reasons why the simultaneous use of birth control pills and antidepressants is not recommended. In some cases, it could worsen the side effects of antidepressants; in some cases, it may lessen the effectiveness of birth control pills; and in some cases, it may be unnecessary.

 

Can antidepressants lower the effectiveness of birth control pills?

Antidepressants like SSRIs may interfere with the action of glands that produce hormones in the body. This could alter the levels of estrogens and progesterone in women. Antidepressants can also alter the bioavailability or the amount of circulating hormones in the body. 

The fluctuating levels of estrogens and progesterone due to the use of antidepressants can, thus, change the balance of female reproductive hormones thereby lowering the effectiveness of oral contraceptive pills. This can not just result in a few side effects associated with hormonal imbalances but may also lead to an unintended pregnancy.

Some women may also experience increased mood swings and irritability as side effects of the hormonal medications. Hence, if women find exacerbations in their symptoms of depression, PMS, or PMDD, it could be attributed to the interactions between antidepressants and birth control pills. A change in the antidepressant or the birth control pill, in such cases, may alleviate the symptoms. 

However, the way antidepressants alter the action of oral contraceptive spills varies among women. There are differences in the levels of estrogens and progesterone from woman to woman. At the same time, the way the compounds in antidepressant drugs are metabolized in the body can also change depending on the specific health issues or metabolic rate and dysfunctions in different women. 

These factors need to be taken into consideration while determining how the antidepressants can alter the action and effectiveness of oral contraceptives. In some women, the use of antidepressants may cause a bigger drop in the effectiveness of birth control pills while in some, it may not interfere with each other’s actions much. 

The use of anti-seizure medications

Anti-seizure mediations, as the name suggests, are prescribed to women who suffer from seizures or convulsions. However, the use of these drugs is not limited to seizures. 

Most women with depression are also prescribed anti-seizure drugs. It is important to mention that these drugs are known to decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptive pills. For example, anti-seizure medications like Lamotragene, Tegretol, and Topomax, which are commonly prescribed to treat depression or stabilize bipolar disorder, can affect the hormonal balance in the body resulting in the failure of oral contraceptives. 

Hence, women suffering from depression or seizures should inform the physician about the use of oral contraceptives and their desire to avoid pregnancy so that appropriate medications can be prescribed to them. 

In case anti-seizure drugs must be prescribed to relieve severe depression, it is best to adopt additional measures of contraception such as condoms or diaphragms in combination with oral contraceptive pills to avoid pregnancy. 

 

Can birth control pills trigger depression?

Most women are concerned about mood changes and depression that may occur due to the use of birth control pills. Not just oral contraceptive pills but also the other hormonal birth control methods such as the patches, implants, rings, injections, and IUDs have been reported to have caused depression in some women.

The rising cases of depression associated with the use of these hormonal medications have led to several research studies.

Most of these studies have not shown any definitive association between the use of hormonal methods of contraception and depression. In fact, a critical review of these studies has revealed that the overall percentage of women that can develop depression due to hormonal contraception was very small. 

It has been found that just 2.2% of women who used hormonal contraception developed depression in comparison to 1.7% who did not. These findings suggest that only some women could be susceptible to this side effect. 

Hence, women need not avoid adopting hormonal birth control methods for the fear of developing depression. On the contrary, the hormonal balance achieved through the use of oral contraceptive pills has been associated with relief from the existing symptoms of depression. 

The mood-stabilizing action of birth control pills is so effective that it may help women avoid the use of antidepressants known to cause serious side effects. 

The Bottom Line

Birth control pills and antidepressants have a complicated relationship. The type of antidepressant or oral contraceptive used, the body composition, and stages in the menstrual cycle need to be considered to evaluate the possible interactions between these drugs. 

Women must seek the advice of a gynecologist and psychiatrist and inform them of the medications they are already using and their intentions to avoid conception so that the physicians can recommend appropriate treatments. 

 

To schedule an appointment, please Click Here

 

How Do Women Feel After A Pregnancy Termination?

 

For additional information, please visit hersmartchoice.com. 

Get SOCIAL with us!

 

Her Smart Choice
Your Life. Your Decision. Your Smart Ch♀ice.

 

 

 

antidepressants, Prozac, postpartum depression, premenstrual syndrome, bi-polar, borderline, seasonal affect disorder, psychiatrist, birth control, obgyn, women’s ealth, pregnancy prevention

 

 With Anti-Depression Prescriptions Skyrocketing in United States, it creates a debate for women – who to listen to? Their Psychiatrist or OB/GYN?

Is it safe to take birth control pills and antidepressants at the same time?

 

 

 

 


Category: Birth ControlPost Date: March 13, 2020

You Got A STD! – Now What?

The diagnosis of a STD(s) or sexually transmitted diseases can be devastating for most men and women. It may raise several questions in their minds. At the same time, it can also increase concerns about how they can overcome the infection. 

The mixed bag of emotions, as well as the health issues that have been diagnosed, need to be managed carefully in order to avoid worsening the condition. Men and women who are suffering from a STD(s) are advised to follow the guidelines given below in order to manage their health in a safe and effective manner and overcome the emotional turmoil caused due to the same.

You Got A STD

Doctor, patient and urine test cup. Physician giving pee container to a woman in clinic or hospital emergency room. Urinary sample for medical exam in hospital. Checkup for infection.

What are STDs?

When the doctor informs the patients that he or she suffers from a STD, there is a need to understand what it exactly means. Sometimes a diagnosis of a STD is made by patients themselves, based on the specific symptoms they develop. In either case, it is important to understand what a STD(s) means and the different forms of these conditions so that patients can seek appropriate treatment. 

A proper understanding of sexually transmitted diseases, how they spread, the various routes of transmission of these infections and the available treatment modalities can help patients recover faster.

A STD(s) or sexually transmitted diseases refer to the infective conditions that are most often, though not exclusively, transmitted through sexual intercourse. The common sexually transmitted infections include HIV, syphilis, genital herpes, chlamydia, genital warts, and gonorrhea. Hepatitis, and trichomoniasis are also common infectious disorders transmitted through sexual intercourse. 

Earlier, STDs were referred to as venereal diseases. What makes STDs a serious concern is they are some of the most common contagious diseases. Also, some forms of STDs tend to produce recurring symptoms while some forms are difficult to cure completely. 

It is estimated that more than 65 million people in America suffer from incurable STDs. More than 20 million new cases of STDs are reported every year of which nearly 50% are young people between the ages of 15 and 24 years. 

Since STDs are known to have long-term emotional and physical consequences, it is important to be aware of the best ways to manage these conditions. Regular treatment coupled with the adoption of safe sex practices can help men and women avoid future sexually transmitted infections. 

Hence, the knowledge of how to avoid STDs forms the crux of the management of these infections. Patients who are diagnosed with a STD should find out why or how they might have contracted the infection and how they can avoid such infections in the future. This forms the first step that they should follow after the diagnosis of a STD. 

How do sexually transmitted diseases spread?

STDs spread from one person to another through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. STDs such as trichomoniasis may also spread through contact with moist or damp objects such as wet clothing, towels, and toilet seats, though it is more commonly transmitted via sexual contact. 

Men and women are at a high risk of STDs if they:

  • Have multiple sex partner.
  • Have sexual intimacy with someone who has had multiple partners.
  • Practice unprotected sex or do not use condoms during intercourse.
  • Share needles while injecting intravenous drugs.
  • Have used contaminated needles. 
  • Had a transfusion of infected blood. 
  • Trade sex for drugs and money. 

These risk factors make it clear that STDs can also get transmitted through routes other than sexual intercourse. Hence, it is advisable for men and women to avoid blaming themselves or their partner when they are diagnosed with these conditions. 

It should be noted that blaming the partner when the infection has actually been contracted due to the use of an infected needle during the administration of injection or blood transfusion may only strain their relations. 

Men and women should rather focus on avoiding the factors that may increase their risk of repeated STD in the future. 

It should also be noted that the pathogens that cause STDs can reside in the blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and even saliva of the infected person. Hence, care should be taken to avoid vaginal, anal, as well as oral sex with a partner known to have a  STD. Some STDs such as hepatitis B can spread through skin contact and the sharing of personal items like toothbrushes and razors. 

Men and women diagnosed with STD should make an effort to educate themselves about the possible modes of transmission of the infection so that the spread of the pathogen to others can be prevented. 

Treatment of STDs 

The diagnosis of any STD must be followed by the proper treatment of the specific condition. It is advisable to seek advice of a healthcare practitioner for the management of a STD. The doctor would not just prescribe appropriate medications for treating the infection, but also provide advice regarding the best ways to avoid the spread of the disease. Depending on the infection, the patient will be advised the following treatments for the STD:

  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics administered in a single dose are usually prescribed for patients diagnosed with STDs of bacterial and parasitic origin. Antibiotics are effective for the management of STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. 

 

Antibiotics act in a variety of ways to control the infection. They may kill the bacteria directly or create an environment that makes their survival difficult. 

 

In most cases, chlamydia and gonorrhea are treated at the same time as these two infections tend to appear together. 

 

Different antibiotics may be prescribed to patients in varying dosages and durations based on the specific infection and the age of the patients

 

Once the antibiotic treatment is started, the entire course of the medication must be completed as recommended. If patients feel they would not be able to take the medication as prescribed or complete its entire course, they should inform the physician so that she/he can prescribe a shorter and simpler course.

 

Additionally, patients should abstain from sex during treatment and for seven to ten days after they have completed the course of antibiotics as well as until the sores have healed completely. Experts suggest retesting after about three months to rule out the presence of reinfection.

 

  • Antiviral drugs: treatment of STDs caused due to viruses are treated using antiviral drugs. For example; patients diagnosed with herpes or HIV are advised to use antiviral drugs. 

 

A daily suppressive therapy using an antiviral drug can help patients have a lower risk of recurrence of herpes. However, it is still possible for the patients to transmit the infection to their partner during sexual intercourse. Hence, the physician may also advise the partner of the infected patient to undergo antiviral therapy. 

 

While there are no medications to cure AIDS (Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) caused due to HIV (Human immunodeficiency Virus) infection completely, patients may be prescribed antiviral drugs to keep the infection in check for several years. 

 

Regular treatment of patients diagnosed with HIV/AIDS using antiviral drugs can help to control the multiplication of the virus thereby slowing down the progress of the infection. However, patients may still carry the virus and transmit the infection to the partner. Hence, couples need to follow appropriate precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the infection. 

 

Patients are advised to seek treatment for HIV and other STDs at the earliest once the diagnosis is made. The sooner they start the treatment, the more effective the results will be.. 

 

Taking an antiviral medication exactly as recommended would help to heal the sores, relieve the symptoms, and reduce the viral count thereby reducing the risk of serious complications.

 

Partner notification and preventive treatment

Patients suffering from a STD are required to inform their sexual partners about the diagnosis as they are likely to spread the infection during sexual intercourse.

They should inform their current sexual partners as well as other partners they have had intimate sexual contact with over the past one year. The symptoms of most STDs do not become evident for a period ranging from a few weeks to months. Hence, even if the current or past partners seem to be in good health and do not have any evident symptoms, they must be informed about the diagnosis so that they can get tested. In case, the tests show positive results, the partners should also seek appropriate treatment for the infection. 

Guidelines of partner notification 

All states have different guidelines related to the disclosure of the diagnosis of STDs. Most states require certain STDs to be reported to the concerned health departments. Public health departments usually employ expert disease intervention specialists who can provide help for notifying the partners.

Official yet confidential notification to the partner can help to limit the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, particularly syphilis and HIV. This practice can also steer the high-risk patients toward counseling and early diagnosis and treatment. 

Patients who have had a STD once are more likely to contract the same or another infection again in the future. Hence, partner notification is essential to reduce the incidence of reinfection. Patients diagnosed with STDs should follow these guidelines so that they can protect the health of others while also avoiding reinfection in the future. 

Here are some more recommendations that patients should follow when diagnosed with STDs

Recommendations for patients diagnosed with a STD

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnant women diagnosed with STDs should contact a physician to learn more about the risk of transmitting the infection to the baby. Certain types of STDs such as HIV, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, chlamydia, and genital herpes are known to spread to the fetus or infant during pregnancy and labor. 

STDs in pregnant women may also increase the risk of complications such as premature labor and infection in the uterus. Some STDs like syphilis may cross the placental barrier and infect the fetus. 

Women should also be aware of the risk of transmission of the infection to the baby during breastfeeding. Women who have HIV should refrain from breastfeeding to prevent the spread of infection to the baby. 

STDs like trichomoniasis require women to wait until the course of the antibiotic is over before they can start breastfeeding the baby. Women diagnosed with syphilis or herpes can breastfeed provided they do not have active sores on any part of the breasts. 

How to reduce the spread of STDs?

Men and women should learn effective ways to reduce the spread of STDs in the future. Here are some precautionary measures recommended to  reduce the spread of STDs:

  • Avoiding any form of sexual contact 
  • The use of barrier methods of contraception such as condoms during vaginal, oral, or anal sex.  
  • Avoiding multiple sexual partners
  • Discussing each other’s sexual history before intimate contact with a new partner
  • Avoiding the use of contaminated needles
  • Receiving vaccination for hepatitis B and HPV 

Counseling

It can be common for men and women to experience emotional challenges when they are diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease. In most cases, the emotional upheaval is associated with a feeling of guilt, shame, and even helplessness. Questions may also be raised about the source of the infection and the trust issues in the relationship especially when the infection is contracted through the partner. 

Hence, patients are advised to undergo individual and family counseling to prevent mental stress, strained relations, and more serious complications such as depression. 

Conclusion

Taking proper treatment can help to relieve the symptoms of STDs and ensure a faster recovery of patients. At the same time, individual and family counseling also forms an integral part of the management of sexually transmitted diseases. 

Adequate precautionary measures must be taken to prevent the recurrence of the same or of other sexually transmitted infections. Comprehensive management of STDs keeping in mind the physical and emotional symptoms can help patients and their partners to stay healthy while enjoying safe sex.

 

Click Here To Schedule an Appointment

For additional information, please visit hersmartchoice.com. 

Get SOCIAL with us!

Her Smart Choice
Your Life. Your Decision. Your Smart Ch♀ice.

 

You Got A STD You Got A STD You Got A STD You Got A STD You Got A STD You Got A STD

#yourbody #obgyn #gynecology #womenshealth #obstetrics  #gynecologist #std #sexuallytransmitteddisease #infection #virus #gonorrhea #chlamydia #syphilis #trichomoniasis #hepatitis #sex #health #behealthy #healthylifestyle #stdtest #stdcheckup #antibiotics #antiviraldrugs #hiv #aids #hepatitis #risk #herpes #genitalherpes #genitalwarts 

 

yourbody, obgyn, gynecology, womenshealth, obstetrics, gynecologist, std, sexuallytransmitteddisease, infection, virus, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, trichomoniasis,  hepatitis, sex, health, behealthy, healthylifestyle, stdtest, stdcheckup, antibiotics,   antiviraldrugs, hiv, aids, hepatitis, risk, herpes, genitalherpes, genitalwarts 

 

 

 


Category: Gonorrhea, STD, SyphilisPost Date: February 4, 2020
Call Now Button
Safe Convenient Affordable Abortion Pills from Her Smart Choice, women's health center abortionabortion provider abortion pillsbirth controlfamily planning servicesGynecological ServicesUrogynecologyInfertilitypap teststd testingIUDSsurgical abortionMedication abortionwomen's health clinicabortion provider Her Smart Choice - Abortion Clinic and Gynecologist in Greater Los Angeles $50 - 1200 Price Range: $$$ 213-344-0267 2226 E Cesar Chavez Avenue, Los Angeles Her Smart Choice - Abortion Clinic and Gynecologist in Greater Los Angeles
2226 E Cesar Chavez Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90033 213-344-0267 213-372-0307
icon Abortion medical abortionabortion consultationabortion - unwanted pregnancyabortion care
2226 E Cesar Chavez Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90033 213-344-0267 213-372-0307