| November 2002 ~ New Contraceptives | |
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By Dr. Karen Ilika Hello Everyone, I guess fall has finally reached us here in Kirkland. I hope everyone if finding ways to keep warm and dry. I wanted to let you know about several newer contraceptive options for women who want the effectiveness of the birth control pill, but would prefer not to have to take a pill every day. Nuva Ring - This is a soft plastic ring placed high up into vagina. It doesn't get in the way during sexual intercourse and the hormones are absorbed in a very constant manner over the next three weeks. After that time, the ring is discarded for a week. Six of my patients were involved in trialing this method in the spring and reports are VERY positive. OrthoEvra -A small adhesive patch that releases small amounts of estrogen and progestins into the bloodstream. Each patch is worn continuously for 1 week and then replaced with a new patch for a total of 3 weeks of patch wear. The fourth week is patch-free. Lunelle-A monthly injection that uses the same mix of hormones as oral contraceptives, it eliminates the problem of forgetting to take the pills. Buffer Gel - A vaginal gel designed to kill both sperm AND germs is currently being studied, and may be available in 2 years or so. If you think you would like to consider any of these options, schedule an appointment for an exam and discussion. For your convenience, if you've had an exam in my office within the past 9 months, and we have your 6-page medical history form on file (the one you complained about doing at your first visit!), you can make a request to start on one of these contraceptives via our Online Consultation service. I will then review your chart to determine if you have any medical reason NOT to proceed, and send you additional information about how to get started. Remember that I am happy to address any topic that is of interest in my periodic newsletter. Send any suggestions for future topics to me using secure messaging on the website. Have a safe and happy holiday season! . Karen |
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