Birth Control Buzz Blog

What is anovulatory bleeding?

2008-06-05T09:45:00.002-07:00

Anovulatory bleeding is menstruation that occurs without ovulation. It is quite common among girls who have just started menstruating and women who are nearing menopause. When ovulation does not occur, the level of estrogen and progesterone in the uterus is disturbed, leading to DUB (dysfunctional uterine bleeding).

This condition is diagnosed after other causes of irregular uterine bleeding have been eliminated. Treatment depends on the intensity and timing of the bleeding, the patient's age, and if she is trying to conceive.

Symptoms

vaginal bleeding between periods
abnormal menstrual periods
variable menstrual cycles (usually less than 28 days between menstrual periods)
variable menstrual flow ranging from light to heavy
infertility
mood swings
hot flashes
vaginal tenderness
hirsutism -- excessive growth of body hair in a male pattern

Possible Causes

long-distance travel and changes in circadian rhythms (regular changes in mental and physical characteristics that occur in the course of a day)
medications, such as hormone therapy and oral contraceptives
ovarian cysts or other hormone-secreting tumors
strenuous physical activity
significant weight loss or gain
extreme emotional stress
chronic disease, illness, infection
eating disorders
polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
pregnancy

Treatment

Unless the symptoms are exceptionally severe, young women within the first year of their period are not treated for DUB. However, for other women, birth control pills or progesterone therapy are commonly prescribed to help control the menstrual cycle.

If the woman wishes to get pregnant, medication may be given to stimulate ovulation.

Surgical treatments, such as endometrial ablation (a procedure that burns or removes the lining of the uterus) or hysterectomy, are only performed if symptoms are severe and resistant to medical therapy.

Treatment for older women approaching menopause may include hormone replacement therapy or surgery to relieve symptoms.

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase pharmaceuticals on-line.

For more information, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo wants to know: Are you an "It Girl"?

2008-05-23T08:08:00.005-07:00

Hey Readers, check out this email I received from Ortho Tri-Cyclen. This contest is legitimate, so if you're interested go to their website and become an "It Girl" today!

Hi Birth Control Buzz Team -
Women, young and old, turn to birthcontrolbuzz.com on a daily basis to answers to their questions -- and now we're hoping you can help us find an "It Girl" among them.

We are looking for young women ages 18-24 who embody the confidence and reliability of a real-life "It Girl" - an everyday superstar who is aware of the world and ahead of the curve! If your readers have what it takes (or know someone that does!), they should Enter the contest and share their stories.

Tell us about the issues and current events they're passionate about and dedicated to, they're involvement in campus activities and non-profit organizations, recent internships and anything else that makes them unique (essays should be limited to 500 words). They can also submit a photo and video to showcase their personal style.

ORTHO TRI-CYCLEN LO "It Girls" will be chosen based on their ability to communicate the essence of reliability, predictability and confidence. Essays will be evaluated for originality, creativity, quality and overall impression. Winners will be announced and their stories will be highlighted on thepill.com, as well as other online and offline publications. Enter today!

This contest is sponsored by Ortho Women's Health & Urology™, maker of ORTHO TRI-CYCLEN® LO.

Important Safety Information

Serious as well as minor side effects have been reported with the use of oral contraceptives. Serious risks, which can be life threatening, include blood clots, stroke and heart attacks, and are increased if you smoke cigarettes. Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, especially if you are over 35. Women who use oral contraceptives are strongly advised not to smoke. Some women should not use the Pill, including women who have blood clots, certain cancers, a history of heart attack or stroke, as well as those who are or may be pregnant. The Pill does not protect against HIV or sexually transmitted diseases.

Please click here for full Product Information.

Thanks for your time,
Jackie on behalf of Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo

Are vaginal douches safe to use?

2008-05-21T09:36:00.005-07:00

The answer, quite simply, is "No". Routine douching can disrupt the fragile chemical balance of the vagina by introducing new, and hostile, bacteria that can spread up the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes causing infection and irritation with adverse affects.

Women who douche often may experience more vaginal irritations and infections such as bacterial vaginosis, and an increased number of STDs. Additionally, women who use vaginal douches may have a 73% greater risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Both PID and bacterial vaginosis can have serious affects on pregnancy including infections in the baby, labor problems, and premature delivery. Because of these risks, douching is not recommended as a safe way to clean the vagina.

So what can you do? Absolutely nothing, the vagina can take care of itself. Your vagina is equipped to clean itself naturally (with its own mucous secretions), which helps the sensitive chemical balance from being disrupted, therefore keeping the risk of infection and irritation to a minimum.

Cleaning Tips

Use warm water and a mild, unscented soap to clean the outer areas of the vagina.
Do not use strong scented soaps, powders, or sprays as these may lead to irritation.

Do you and Oprah have the same disease?

2008-05-15T09:25:00.003-07:00

Talk-show host Oprah Winfrey has thyroid disease, and she's telling everyone.

Why? Because most people with thyroid conditions never get a proper diagnosis. Or they get the wrong diagnosis. And most of those people are women. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists estimates that more than 8 out of 10 patients with thyroid disease are women.

Oprah told her fans about being tired, about unexplained weight gain, and her inability to sleep.

Symptoms of thyroid disease could point to many other conditions women feel: being tired, depressed, having weight gain, dry skin, anxiety, brittle or thin hair, feeling heartbeats (palpitations), trouble concentrating.

"The key is for women to know about these symptoms and to report them fully to their doctors or other health care providers, because when viewed individually doctors often dismiss them as isolated problems or examples of normal aging," said Martha Nolan, vice president of public policy for the Society for Women's Health Research. "Patients need to put the symptoms together, speak up, and doctors need to pay attention."

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland in the neck. It produces hormones and helps regulate the body's metabolism. If the gland is underactive or does not produce enough hormone, referred to as hypothyroidism, a person may feel sluggish, fatigued and gain weight. If the gland is overactive or produces too much hormone, known as hyperthyroidism, a person may experience heart palpitations, tremors, irritability and weight loss.

"As with other autoimmune diseases (in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues), it's believed that female hormones play some role in thyroid diseases. Just how big a role is not known. Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, all seem to affect the onset of thyroid diseases," said Rita Baron Faust, a health educator and author of The Autoimmune Connection.

Thyroid disease can be easily diagnosed with a simple blood test. Treatment is usually successful. It may require lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy or radiation and surgery, depending on the type of condition.

The trick in managing thyroid disease is getting a proper diagnosis.

Article Source: Health-e headlines™ Consumer Health News Service

Eco-Friendly Options for Your Period

2008-05-07T08:22:00.006-07:00

For those of us who hate contributing to our landfills and sewers each month, I thought it would be a great idea to hunt down some "greener" alternatives to manufactured tampons and pads.

Made from silicone or latex, the menstrual cup is a small cylinder that is folded and inserted in the vagina to collect menstrual fluids. Once placed in the vagina, near the cervix, it unfolds and collects nearly 100ml of fluid before it needs to be emptied, washed, and reused. The cup must be emptied every 8-12 hours. It is designed for use for up to 10 years and washing up requires soap and water.

Many Moon Alternatives is a huge site offering "ecofriendly products for you and your home". They sell handmade menstrual pads made with leopard print cotton! They also provide a pattern to make your own menstrual pads.

Organic disposable feminine products are made with oxygen bleached materials. If you can find them on the shelves, or online, the cost is usually higher but less cramping, shorter periods, and lighter bleeding appear to be just a few of the benefits of these natural products.

Sea sponges (found on the ocean floor) are a natural alternative to tampons. They contain no synthetic materials and last for about 6 months. To use a sea sponge: dampen it, squeeze it tightly in your hand, and insert it into your vagina. Once in place, it works like a tampon to absorb menstrual flow. A sea sponge needs to be rinsed out about every 3 hours and thoroughly cleaned and dried at the end of each period. In the 1980s, the FDA found that some sea sponges marketed as menstrual products contained potentially harmful bacteria. It is possible to get toxic shock syndrome from sea sponges.

Web sites with more information about eco-friendly options for your period are:
http://www.gladrags.com/
http://www.lunapads.com/
http://www.mooncupsandkeepers.com/
http://www.seapearls.co.uk/

Do I need to take B12 if I'm using oral contraceptives?

2008-04-30T11:28:00.004-07:00

According to information the doctor on staff passed my way, it may depend on what dosage your OC's are. While there have been reports of low vitamin B12 in women taking higher dose oral contraceptives, more recent studies have not found this with women taking the more commonly prescribed lower-dose OC's.

Two studies found that lower serum vitamin B12 levels were often caused by decreased transcobalamin 2 levels (transcobalamin is needed to transport vitamin B12 to various parts of the body.) However, B12 deficiency was not found to occur more often in women taking oral contraceptives.

This information is advisory only. It does not contain all information pertaining to this topic. If you have any questions about birth control affecting your B12 levels, you can always ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Medications that Decrease Birth Control Effectiveness.

2008-04-22T09:20:00.008-07:00

Although the degrees to which these drugs affect hormonal birth control vary, there are certain ones which doctors say may increase the failure rate. If you are using one or more of the following medications, it is a good idea to speak with your doctor about the possibility of one of them affecting your birth control. Until you are able to speak with your doctor use a back-up method, like a condom.

Medications that are listed as interfering include:

Antibiotics

Rifampin
Penicillin
Amoxicillin
Sulfonamide
Ampicillin
Cotrimoxazole
Tetracycline
Griseofulvin
Minocycline
Phenobarbitol
Metronidazole
Nitrofurantoin

Anti-HIV Protease Inhibitors

Ritonavir

Anti-Seizure

Phenobarbital
Primidone
Oxcarbazepine
Carbamazepine
Phenytoin
Topiramate

Antidepressants

Nefazodone

Anti-Fungal

Oral yeast infection meds may lower the effectiveness of the pill. Griseofulvin, used to treat fungus infections of the skin, hair, and nails may also interfere with OC's or other hormonal birth control.

Diabetes Meds

Troglitazone
Pioglitazone

Anxiety Meds

Diazepam
Temazepam

Natural Supplements

Soy Isoflavones
St. John's Wort

This information is advisory only. It does not contain all information about these medications. If you have any questions about these meds affecting your birth control, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

What is the risk of pregnancy while on the pill?

2008-04-18T11:52:00.003-07:00

If the pill is taken correctly, at the same time everyday, the risk of pregnancy is about 0.1%. Risk is increased when the time between pill packs exceeds seven days (if you missed the first or last pill in a pack), or if you skip a pill during the first week with the Sunday Start method.

Does taking the pill affect the outcome of a pregnancy test?

No. Pregnancy tests are based on detecting the hormone B-HCG in your body, which is not present in the pill.

What should I do if the pregnancy test result is Positive?

If your test result is positive, immediately stop taking the pill and discuss your options with your healthcare provider. The risks of the child being harmed by the pill are very low (2-5% of pregnant women report having taken birth control pills at the start of their pregnancy before realizing they were pregnant.) A metanalysis conducted by the Toronto Hospital for Sick Children (on 65,567 women) showed no increase in the risk of fetal malformation when the woman was exposed to sex hormones after conception.

How long should I wait to conceive?

Some doctors recommend waiting a full cycle without the pill before trying to conceive. Others may recommend waiting 6 months to a year. This time frame is recommended to get a reliable date of your last period, which can help chart gestation (carrying of an embryo or fetus).

5 benefits of menstrual suppression.

2008-04-09T11:21:00.005-07:00

Endometriosis
- About 10-45% of adolescent girls miss school because of menstrual pain and discomfort. Using extended regimen birth control pills may help stop progression and reduce side effects of, endometriosis, fibroids, and adenomyosis.
Migraines
- 10% of women who are of reproductive age suffer from menstrual migraines. The cause is likely due to premenstrual estrogen withdrawal. By supressing their periods, many women are eliminating the sudden decline of estrogen responsible for these headaches.
Behcet's disease
- Behcet's is a rare disorder that causes chronic inflammation in blood vessels throughout the body. Signs and symptoms include oral and vaginal ulcerations, skin rashes, and lesions. Women who suffer from Behcet's disease may find relief from symptoms by trying menstrual suppression.
Anemia
- Women with heavy, prolonged menstrual flows will benefit from the less frequent cycles associated with menstrual suppression. It may also help with stabilizing iron levels.
Inconvenient timing
- Sometimes our periods have horrible timing. You could benefit from menstrual suppression if you travel for a living, enjoy competing in sports, or just want to deal with your period 4 times a year.

Low-dose OCs that may cause breakthrough bleeding.

2008-03-28T08:36:00.005-07:00

Over the last 25 years a push towards reducing a woman's total estrogen exposure (during her menstrual cycle) has led to the formulation of low-dose oral contraceptives. Although low-dose OCs are just as effective in preventing pregnancy, an increase in breakthrough bleeding has been reported more frequently with their use.

However, this is not a reason to stop taking the pill. Although annoying, breakthrough bleeding is not uncommon during the first three months of use and repeated episodes are usually resolved by switching to another type of birth control pill with a higher estrogen content. Quite simply it's finding the appropriate dose for your body's specific needs.

** Women who smoke are more likely to have breakthrough bleeding. There is also a higher risk of serious cardiovascular side effects with higher doses of estrogen (especially in women over age 35).

Low-dose estrogen pills include:

Alesse
Minestrin
Tri-CyclenLo
Linessa
Loestrin 24 Fe.

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line.

For more information on birth control, call 1-866-732-0305 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

Causes of abnormal vaginal discharge.

2008-03-22T09:25:00.003-07:00

Lactobacilli are common in the human body. They aid digestion in the gastrointestinal tract and help prevent infection in the vagina. The lactobacilli found in the vagina produce lactic acid which maintains a level of acidity that provides a good defense against infection. But when this level is disrupted infection can set in.

The causes of abnormal vaginal discharge can be either infectious or non-infectious:
Infectious causes include:

Bacterial vaginosis
Vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection)
Cervico-vaginitis resulting from a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
- Trichomonas
- Gonorrhea and chlamydia

Non-infectious causes:

Use of perfumes, soaps, or latex on or around the vagina
Contact dermatitis - a skin reaction resulting from exposure to allergens or irritants
Atrophic vaginitis - inflammation of the vagina due to the thinning and shrinking of the tissues, as well as decreased lubrication.
Excessive vaginal secretions

Prevention

Always practice safe sex. Wear a condom to protect yourself from HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and other STIs.
Form good hygeine habits. Wipe from front to back, avoid vaginal douching. Avoid certain sexual activities that may also contribute to vaginal infections.
If you suffer from vaginal irritation easily, try to avoid scented sanitary napkins and toilet paper, soap, shampoo, bubble bath, tight undergarments made of synthetic fibres or latex, etc. This may reduce your chances of infection.
Good health habits, such as exercise, weight loss, not eating refined sugar, and better stress management, are helpful.

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line.

For more information on birth control, call 1-866-732-0305 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

When is your most fertile period?

2008-03-18T09:05:00.002-07:00

Ever wondered when your chances of pregnancy are at their highest? The following information can help you determine the best time for conception, or the best time for extra protection.

Women are born with approximately 400,000 eggs in their ovaries. Every month several eggs mature and one is released from an ovary. All along, the uterus has been thickening to act as a nest for the egg to implant. If the egg is released and not fertilized (by sperm) within 12-48 hours, it dissolves. The uterus then sheds it's thick lining 2 weeks later; this is your period.

Ovulation occurs when the matured egg is released from the ovary. It happens around 14 or 15 days from the first day of your last period. Once the egg is released it travels into the Fallopian tube and is able to be fertilized by a sperm. This is your most fertile time to become pregnant. If you have unprotected sex, pregnancy can occur. A pregnancy can happen anytime from 5 days before ovulation to 1 day afterwards.

Conception happens when a single sperm penetrates the egg. The egg and the sperm then merge into a single nucleus known as a "zygote". It can take several days for a pregnancy to occur as the fertilized egg has to implant in the lining of the uterus. It is only after the zygote has implanted that the woman is considered pregnant.

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line.

For more information, call 1-866-732-0305 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

The Symptothermal Method.

2008-03-11T10:28:00.008-07:00

If you're looking for a chemical-free alternative to birth control you may want to try the Symptothermal method.

When using the Symptothermal method you are charting three main indicators of fertility; changes in basal body temperature and cervical mucus, and your own calendar calculation. This method identifies the naturally occuring fertile and infertile phases of your menstrual cycle. The information can then be used to acheive your birth control (or pregnancy) goals.

For this method of natural birth control to work your temperature must be taken every morning before you get out of bed. Once your temperature is taken, record it on a chart, or calendar, so you can easily track the day to day fluctuations. Your temperature should be around 97.2°F and 97.4°F. Ovulation is indicated with an increase in body temperature from half a degree to as much as a full degree and will stay elevated due to an increased production of progesterone (natural hormone involved in the female menstrual cycle.)

Temperature that is sustained for at least three days is an indication that ovulation has taken place; you can assume that having sex will not result in a pregnancy. It's only before you ovulate that determining when the safest time to have sex is the hardest.

Fertilization can occur during the first 24 hours after the ovaries have released an egg. However, sperm can remain inside a woman for up to seven days making pregnancy possible, even if you don't have sex during your fertile time.

The Mayo Clinic gives the Symptothermal method a 98% effectiveness rate. This percentage is based on women who do not have irregular periods, irregular body temperature patterns, or recurrent reproductive tract infections. Women who suffer from the later should not rely on this method of birth control.

*** This is a great website to find calendars to track your periods, ovulation, fertile days, if you're late, pregnancy due date, etc.

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line.
For more information, call 1-866-732-0305 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

How soon can you start taking the Pill again after giving birth?

2008-03-04T13:29:00.003-08:00

Combination pills (estrogen and progestin) should not be started until six weeks after giving birth. This is because during those six weeks you are at the highest risk for venous thromboembolism. A venous thrombosis is a blood clot that forms within a vein.

There is some controversy as to whether the combined pill may interfere with milk production. For women who want to use this method of birth control their doctor may advise that breastfeeding be well-established and that the baby is healthy before using the Pill again. The Pill should be stopped immediately if a significant change in production of milk is noticed.

Progestin-only pills may be started right after having given birth as they do not contain estrogen, the thrombogenic ingredient. There does not appear to be any evidence suggesting an effect on breastfeeding and milk production.

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line.

For more information, call 1-866-732-0305 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

A Brief List of Menstrual Disorders

2008-02-27T11:40:00.003-08:00

Oligoovulation

Ovulating infrequently or irregularly. Usually, a woman ovulates, or releases a mature egg once a month, about halfway through her cycle. Oligoovulation is seen in women with irregular cycles, or very long cycles (more then 50 days). This may make it difficult to track your fertile days if trying to conceive.

Anovulation

Absence of ovulation when it is normally expected. Anovulation is characterized by irregularity of menstrual periods; unpredictable variability of intervals, duration, or bleeding. It can also cause your period to stop or excessive bleeding.

Polymenorrhea

Menstrual cycles with intervals of 21 days or fewer.

Oligomenorrhea

Infrequent or light menstrual periods (intervals exceeding 35 days).

Dysmenorrhea

Cramps or painful menstruation. Dysmenorrhea involves menstrual periods that are accompanied by either sharp, intermittent pain or dull, aching pain, usually in the pelvis or lower abdomen.

Amenorrhea

Absence of a menstrual period in a woman of reproductive age. This occurs most often during pregnancy and lactation (breastfeeding). Outside of the reproductive years amenorrhea may occur during childhood and after menopause.

Menorrhagia

Abnormally heavy and prolonged period. Causes may be due to abnormal blood clotting, disruption of normal hormonal regulation of periods or disorders of the endometrial lining of the uterus. Depending upon the cause, it may be associated with abnormally painful periods.

BirthControlBuzz is a service company that provides types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line.
For more information, call 1-866-732-0305 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

Do you know what cervical polyps are?

2008-02-20T10:20:00.005-08:00

Cervical polyps are non-cancerous and found on the surface of the cervical canal. They can cause irregular menstrual bleeding and often show no symptoms. They are most common in women older than 20 who have had several pregnancies. They are rare in girls who have not started menstruating.

They can result from long-term (chronic) inflammation, an abnormal response to an increase in estrogen levels, or congestion of blood vessels in the cervical canal.

Treatment involves a simple outpatient procedure of removing the polyps from the cervical canal; prognosis is generally good and regrowth is uncommon. This can be done by gently twisting the polyp, tying it tightly at the base, or removing it with special forceps. A solution is applied to the base of the polyp to stop any bleeding.

Polyps do not need to be removed unless they bleed, are very large, or have an unusual appearance. About 1% of cervical polyps will show neoplastic change (abnormal proliferation of cells in a tissue or organ) which may lead to cancer.

Most of the time cervical polyps show no symptoms, but if symptoms do occur they can include intermenstrual bleeding, abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding, vaginal bleeding in post-menopausal women, bleeding after sex and thick white vaginal discharge.

BirthControlBuzz is a service company that provides types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line.

For more information, call 1-866-732-0305 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

Digene HPV Test: A Breakthrough in Cervical Cancer Screening

2008-02-06T10:56:00.000-08:00

What is the Digene® HPV Test?

The Digene® HPV Test is the only test for high-risk types of HPV approved by the FDA. There are more than a dozen types of "high-risk" HPV that can cause harmful changes in the cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb), which opens into the vagina. These abnormal cell changes, called dysplasia may gradually develop into cervical cancer if not treated.

However, most HPV infections are cleared rapidly by the immune system and do not progress to cervical cancer. Researchers estimate that 70 percent of new HPV infections (including those that are "high risk") go away within one year, and 91 percent are gone within two years. It's only when high-risk types of HPV stay "active" that the risk of developing dysplasia and cervical cancer increases significantly.

Important Facts about the Digene HPV Test

In a Pap test, a laboratory technician visually examines a sample of cervical cells under a microscope to look for abnormal changes. Thus, the findings - no matter what type is used - are inexact, and are subject to human error and interpretation.
The Digene® HPV Test (the only such test approved by the FDA) uses advanced molecular technology to detect the DNA (genetic material) of 13 high-risk types of HPV, the virus shown to actually cause virtually all cases of cervical cancer.
The test is done at the same time as the Pap, so women don't need to do anything more than ask for it.
The Digene HPV Test is based on proprietary "Hybrid Capture" technology, which combines two innovations from the rapidly evolving field of life sciences - DNA/RNA probes and monoclonal antibodies - to allow rapid, standardized gene testing in virtually any laboratory setting.
The Digene HPV Test was first approved in 1999 for follow-up evaluation in women of all ages whose Pap results are uncertain - typically referred to as "ASC-US" (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance).
In 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the Digene HPV Test for cervical cancer screening, in conjunction with a Pap, in women age 30 and older.
Use of HPV testing for routine screening is recognized in guidelines issued by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Cancer Society and the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals.
The majority of insurance companies cover the HPV test for routine screening.
By combining the HPV and Pap tests, the ability to identify women at risk for cervical cancer is increased to virtually 100 percent.1
In one study, Digene's HPV test identified 100 percent of the women with advanced cervical disease (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia [CIN] grades 2 and 3), compared to only 58 percent identified by the conventional Pap and 84 percent by the newer, "liquid-based" Pap.2
In study to study, the sensitivity of Digene's HPV test consistently exceeds the Pap.3

For more information, visit www.thehpvtest.com

____________________________

1.J Cuzick, A Szarewski, H Cubie, G Hulman et al, "Management of Women Who Test Positive for High-Risk Types of Human Papillomavirus: The Hart Study." The Lancet 2003 362: 1871-1876.

2.Clavel C, Masure M, Bory JP, Putaud I, Mangeonjean C, Lorenzato F et al. Human papillomavirus Testing in Primary Screening for the Detection of High-Grade Cervical Lesions: A Study of 7932 Women. Br J Cancer 2001; 89(12): 1616-1623.

3.Lorincz A, Richart R. Human Papillomavirus DNA Testing as an Adjunct to Cytology in Cervical Screening Programs. Arch Pathol Lab Med. 2003; 127: 959-968.

______________________________

BirthControlBuzz is a service company that provides types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase pharmaceuticals on-line.
For more information, call 1-866-732-0305 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

Should I stop taking the Pill if I'm getting headaches?

2008-02-01T09:38:00.001-08:00

Headaches, in conjunction with birth control use, should always be taken seriously as this could be the precursor of a stroke (a serious, but not common, side effect of the pill.) But before you stop taking your birth control - which you shouldn't without talking to your doctor - let's discuss the difference between dangerous headaches and minor headaches.

Headaches that may require immediate stoppage of the pill are those associated with neurological symptoms such as: vision problems, trouble speaking, abnormal skin sensations (itching, tingling, or burning) or weakness of a limb, and migraine headaches that start or worsen while on birth control pills. A migraine is a severe recurring headache, usually affecting only one side of the head, characterized by sharp pain and often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances. Based on these symptoms your doctor may have you stop taking the pill and refer you to a neurologist.

Tension headaches are a frequent problem in women but do not require stoppage of your birth control. These type of headaches do not show any likelihood of serious complications and can be treated with an over-the-counter pain med. They commonly start in the neck, are bilateral (affecting both sides of the head), and are not associated with an aura or neurological problems. The drop in estrogen during your pill-free week can sometimes be the tension headache trigger.

If you are taking the pill and suffer from headaches, discussing your symptoms with your doctor, minor or major, is the best thing you can do. Do not stop taking the pill without first talking to your doctor.

The most serious side effect associated with the pill is a greater chance of blood clots, stroke and heart attack. These problems occur in only a small number of women who use birth control pills. Women who are at the highest risk of developing these problems are those who smoke, are over thirty-five and those with other health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart or vascular disease or blood cholesterol and triglyceride abnormalities.

Natural Birth Control

2008-01-26T15:29:00.000-08:00

Natural birth control is one of the most widely used methods of fertility regulation. Some religions and cultural beliefs do not permit artificial birth control devices or drugs. The natural birth control method is more acceptable to these people. This method includes a periodic abstinence, with couples avoiding sexual intercourse during the woman's fertile period.

The rhythm method or calendar method, standard days method, sympto-thermal method, and withdrawal method are some of the natural birth control methods.

In the rhythm method, sexual intercourse takes place based on three assumptions. The first is that ovulation occurs fourteen days before the beginning of menstruation. This method also relies upon the fact that the sperm will remain viable for three days and that the ovum survives for twenty-four hours. With these theories in mind, women can decide on the days of abstinence. The standard day method replaced the rhythm method over a period of time. In the standard day method, the first day of a period is considered as day one. Women can have unprotected sex from day one to day seven. From days eight to nineteen, they should avoid sex. From day twenty to the next period, they can again have unprotected intercourse.

Withdrawal is a method of natural birth control in which the man withdraws his penis from the woman's vagina before ejaculation. This method does not always work because the man must have enough control to withdraw in time. The Sympto-thermal method is also an effective natural birth control method. Women using this method should keep track of their cervical mucus signs, their waking or basal body temperatures, and their menstrual cycle histories. In this method, the mucus detected date is noted first. The end of the fertile period is determined based on the basal body temperature. Intercourse can be resumed as the temperature rises. The temperature begins to rise one to two days after ovulation and corresponds to the rising level of progesterone.

Natural birth control methods allow a woman to have an understanding of her body. These methods have no side effects. Natural birth control methods do not require the use of drugs or chemicals. Compared with other birth control methods, a natural birth control method is inexpensive. Such methods can also be used to achieve pregnancy. Natural birth control methods require discipline and systematic charting. This is most suitable for women with regular and predictable menstrual cycles.

Article written by: Eric Morris for Birth Control
Article source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Morris

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase pharmaceuticals on-line. For more information, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

Are you eligible for an extended-regimen birth control pill?

2008-01-19T11:17:00.000-08:00

An extended-regimen or continuous birth control pill may be beneficial:

if you suffer from menstrual pain, perhaps due to endometriosis, PMS, and period-related hormonal symptoms such as migraine or menstrual edema;
if you're premenopausal with symptoms including hot flashes and short cycles;
if you have menorrhagia (abnormally heavy and prolonged menstrual period at regular intervals);
if you prefer not to have your periods, now or for a long period of time, for professional reasons, or for other reasons (like travel);
if you don't want to have your periods anymore.

Is it dangerous to not have a period every month?

There are no known adverse consequences of never having a period while on combination birth control pills. Women who are pregnant, menopausal, or who have had a hysterectomy don't get their period, but their health is fine.

How will I know if I'm pregnant or not?

There is a lower risk of pregnancy with the extended-regimen pill since the development of ovarian follicles is constantly inhibited. Quite simply, if there are no follicles it's impossible to get pregnant. Although, if you repeatedly forget to take your pills your chances of pregnancy increase, regardless of whether you're on the classic or extended form of the pill.

Are there any extended-regimen birth control pills available?

You may want to speak with you doctor about the following options:

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, types of birth control (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase pharmaceuticals on-line. For more information, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

How long should I use back-up contraception?

2008-01-12T10:45:00.000-08:00

Quite often instructions on how to use birth control pills vary from clinic to clinic. Generally it's recommended that a back-up be used for the first month because the Pill may not protect you as effectively during it's first cycle. However, this can be affected by when you start your first pill pack.

It's probably not necessary to use a back-up contraceptive (like a condom) if you start taking your pills on the first day of your period. However most pills are "Sunday start", which means that if you get your period on Monday, you don't take your first pill until the following Sunday.

If you have a shorter cycle (24 days) you may already be ovulating before the first pill is taken (ovulation cannot be reversed by the pill). If this is you, it's a good idea to use a condom for the first month. If your cycle is 28 days or longer, you're probably safe right away. Of course it's always better to be safe than sorry.

Day 1 Start (or "first-day start")

Take your pill during the first 24 hours of your period. You'll be protected from the first day you start the Pill and won't need to use any back-up.

This method reduces the risk of pregnancy by shortening the interval between two packs of pills. Additionally, menstrual flow and cramping are decreased.

Sunday Start

Take the first active pill on the Sunday after you start your period, even if you're still bleeding. For example, if your period starts on Monday, you take your first pill six days later on the Sunday. If your period starts on Friday, you take your first pill two days later. And if your period starts on a Sunday, you take the Pill that same day.

The Sunday start method can't be relied on for giving immediate protection, so you will need to use a back-up method of birth control for the first month.

Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, birth control types (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase pharmaceuticals on-line. For more information, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.

What is Perimenopause?

2008-01-09T09:16:00.000-08:00

Perimenopause is the time when your body is transitioning into menopause. It comprises of the years both before and after your fianl period - anywhere from two to eight years.

Symptoms of hormonal change such as hot flashes, mood changes, insomnia, fatigue, and memory problems are generally experieced by the majority of women going through perimenopause.

During perimenopause the production of your reproductive hormones - estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone - becomes irregular. Your periods may lengthen or shorten, and you start to have menstrual cycles in which you don't ovulate. During this period, fertility diminishes.

Symptoms and Signs of Perimenopause

Symptoms can begin as early as age 35, although most women experience them about 10 years later than this. Some women do not feel any change in their body, while others feel like they're on a roller coaster ride. Below is a list of common symptoms associated with perimenopause.

You may experience shorter or longer periods. The flow may be heavy one month, then light the next. You may even skip a period or two.
You may feel uncomfortable sleeping at night due to hot flashes, but sleep can become erratic even without them. The frequency, duration, and intensity of hot flashes can vary.
You may experience irritability and depression, but the culprit may be your disrupted sleep pattern or other menopausal symptoms.
Your vaginal tissues may lose lubrication and elasticity. Low levels of estrogen may also cause urinary or vaginal infections.
Your ability to conceive decreases as ovulation becomes irregular. However, if you are still getting your periods pregnancy remains a possibility.
Your sexual arousal and desire may change.
Increased risk of osteoporosis due to declining estrogen levels.
Your blood cholesterol levels may change. Declining estrogen levels may lead to an increase in LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) which can contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.

Risks Associated with Perimenopause

In some women menopause can occur earlier in life. For example, women who smoke will experience menopause one to two years earlier than women who don't. There are other, albeit non-conclusive, factors that may cause perimenopause occuring at an earlier age. These include:

When your mother or sister experienced menopause.
Having never delivered a baby.
A history of heart disease.
Cancer treatment in childhood with chemotherapy and pelvic radiation therapy.
Hysterectomy.

Treatment

The symptoms of perimenopause are often relieved with the use of birth control pills. You can take low dose pills to regulate your periods, reduce hot flashes and vaginal dryness.

Eat a healthy low-fat, high-fiber diet that's full of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Take up regular exercise to help prevent weight gain and bones from weakening.

What happens if I don't get my period after stopping the Pill?

2008-01-05T08:51:00.000-08:00

If you've stopped taking your birth control pill but haven't had a period for several months, you could have post-pill amenorrhea (the absence of a menstrual period).

By taking the pill you are preventing your body from naturally producing hormones involved in ovulation and menstruation. Your body has been trained to depend on the synthetic hormones found in the pill; in fact, it may no longer make as many of its own. Therefore, once you stop it can take awhile for your body to return to normal.

For most women ovulation happens right away with their period starting within four to six weeks. However, some women, like those who've taken the pill to help regulate their cycle, may not have a period for several months.

Take a pregnancy test if you don't get your period within three months. If after six months you still don't have a period, go see your doctor.

STD Profile: Chlamydia.

2007-12-21T09:58:00.000-08:00

One of the most common sexually transmitted diseases, Chlamydia can damage a woman's reproductive organs before she even realizes there's a problem. It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and quite often has mild or "absent" symptoms.

Chlamydia is transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during vaginal childbirth.

If you are sexually active than your chances of being infected with chlamydia are increased. Your risk of infection is even higher the more sex partners you have. Sexually active teenage girls and young women appear to be more susceptible to infection possibly due to the cervix (opening to the uterus) not being fully matured.

Known as the "silent" disease, chlamydia often presents with no symptoms. Three quarters of infected women and half of infected men will have no symptoms. The infection is frequently not diagnosed or treated until complications develop. If symptoms do occur, they usually appear within 1 to 3 weeks of exposure.

Symptoms might include abnormal vaginal discharge or a burning sensation when urinating. When the infection spreads from the cervix to the fallopian tubes, some women still have no signs or symptoms; others have lower abdominal pain, low back pain, nausea, fever, pain during intercourse, and bleeding between menstrual periods. If the infection spreads past the cervix into the upper reproductive system, permanent and irreversible damage can occur, including infertility.

Men might experience discharge from the penis and a burning sensation when urinating. Men might also have burning and itching around the opening of the penis or pain and swelling in the testicles, or both.

Antibiotics are the method of choice used to treat and cure chlamydia. A single dose of azithromycin or a week of doxycycline are the most commonly used treatments. All sex partners must also be treated.

STD Prevention

Use a condom correctly and consistently even if you are using another type of birth control. Birth control pills, the shot, the patch, etc., will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
Limit the number of sex partners, practice sexual abstinence, or limit the number to just one uninfected partner. Do not go back and forth between partners.
Go for a screening test at least once a year.
Avoid sexual contact if you think you may be infected. Any genital signs or symptoms such as discharge or burning during urination or an unusual sore or rash should be a signal to stop having sex. See your doctor as soon as possible.

How to use the Female Condom.

2007-12-19T08:51:00.000-08:00

The Female Condom (FC) is a thin sheath made of polyurethane used during sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It is open at one end and closed at the other. Both ends have a flexible ring to keep the condom in place. The condom is worn internally by the woman and physically blocks ejaculated semen from entering her body.

How to use the Female Condom

Open the package carefully (if you accidentally tear the condom while opening, throw it out and use another). To insert the condom choose a comfortable position; like lying down, squatting, or raising one leg.
Squeeze the closed end of the condom between your thumb and middle finger.
Using your index finger, push the condom all the way into your vagina. Insert it as far as it will go until you can't feel it any longer. The open end (larger ring) of the condom should be outside your vagina.
Make sure the condom is not twisted inside your vagina.

Removal of the Female Condom requires that you hold it carefully as there may be a chance of sperm spilling in the vagina. Once you have a firm grasp you can then twist the outer ring and pull it out. Wrap the condom with tissue or toilet paper and throw it into the garbage.

Precautions

Do not use the same condom twice.
Do not tear the condom with nails or teeth.
Do not use female and male condoms at the same time. The friction between the two condoms can cause breakage.
Do not use oil-based lubricants with female condoms made of latex. Water- and silicone-based lubricants are the better choice.
Use a new condom everytime you have sexual intercourse.
Do not flush the condom down the toilet.
The condom's outer ring must be held in place to prevent the condom from slipping into the vagina.
The penis must be guided into the condom to prevent the penis sliding between the condom and the vaginal wall.

Advantages of the Female Condom

More control and a sense of spontaneity.
No prescription or fitting is needed.
You can put the condom in several hours before intercourse.
It is safe and fairly effective at preventing both pregnancy and infection.
The condom is lubricated on the inside.

Disadvantages of the Female Condom

It is large, somewhat unattractive and can make rustiling noises during intercourse; this may decrease enjoyment of sex.
The condom will not work if the man's penis slides outside of the female condom.
It can be hard and confusing to use at first (but practice makes perfect).
It is harder to find and more expensive than male condoms.