Southdale ObGyn is excited to provide you with our September monthly newsletter.  We are dedicated to sharing news, views and thought-provoking articles written by our own doctors! Of course our newsletter is not only about giving you updates, it is also about sharing views on hot topics. So do let us know what you think about our newsletter, along with your suggestions for future editions.  

LARC is an acronym that stands for "long acting reversible contraception" and refers to intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the birth control implant.  These methods are highly effective in preventing pregnancy, last for several years, and are safe to use.  They do not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).  Currently available IUDs are Paragard®, Mirena®, and Skyla®; the birth control implant is called Nexplanon®.  

The IUD and the implant are the most effective forms of reversible birth control currently available. During the first year of typical use, fewer than 1 in 100 women using an IUD or an implant will become pregnant.  The failure rate is 0.2-0.8%, which is in the same range as that for sterilization. The typical failure rate for birth control pills, rings and patches is 9%.

There are many benefits to LARC methods.  Once they are in place, there is nothing else to do for contraception; they do not interrupt sex or other daily activities.  Almost all women can use a LARC method, including women who have never given birth.  These methods can be used while breastfeeding.   The hormonal IUD can reduce menstrual blood flow and cramping.   They are effective for several years (up to 10 years for the copper IUD!)  And, if you wish to become pregnant after using a LARC, your provider will remove the device and your ability to conceive returns immediately.

The websites listed below can provide you with additional information.  If you think you might be interested in a LARC method, make an appointment to discuss your options with one of our providers.

http://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Long-Acting-Reversible-Contraception-LARC-IUD-and-Implant   

http://www.arhp.org/Publications-and-Resources/Patient-Resources/fact-sheets/IUC-Myths 

Annette Krueger has been a Southdale Ob/Gyn patient for more than 30 years, ever since her mom, who also was a patient, brought her to the clinic at age 17. Today, she says, "I choose my insurance around being able to go there. I won't go anywhere else."

The doctors at Southdale Ob/Gyn have seen Annette through the birth of her two sons, and, most recently, a full hysterectomy. "I had a large ovarian cyst," she says, "and fibroids and endometriosis. Dr. Curran gave me options, but  given my family history, I decided to go ahead with the surgery."

Annette's mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at 44 and at age 50. Her father also died young of cancer. "Dr. Curran has always been very in tune with my concerns about my family health history," she says. "He made sure I had yearly pelvic ultrasounds, and I've had yearly mammograms since I was 25. When it was time for me to have surgery, I wasn't the least bit worried because I trust him 110 percent."