Part 1: Discussion Initial Post - Due Saturday Of Week 8

Part 1: Discussion Initial post - due Saturday of week 8 at 11:59 p.m. PT

Introduction : The human reproductive system includes the male reproductive system, which functions to produce and deposit sperm, and the female reproductive system, which functions to produce egg cells, and to protect and nourish the fetus until birth. Prevention of fertilization is, in general, the basis for contraception. People may choose to use contraception for a variety of reasons, the purpose of birth control is to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Although there may be religious, social, ethical, and personal considerations when it comes to birth control, in this set of posts please limit your description to a scientific explanation of how each method works.

For this post, you will: Choose a type of birth control and describe if it is a short-acting or long-term contraception. Some examples are: Natural methods of contraception, such as abstinence, withdrawal, fertility awareness methods, outercourse, continuous breastfeeding (aka lactational amenorrhea). Over-the-counter choices (e.g., spermicide, male and female condoms, sponge, the-morning-after-pill). Prescription birth control (e.g., the pill, the Depo Provera Shot, the NuvaRing and Annovera, The Ortho Evra Patch, Diaphragms, ParaGard Intrauterine Device, Mirena Intrauterine Device (IUD), Kyleena and Liletta Intrauterine Devices (IUDs), Phexxi Gel, Nexplanon, Cervical Caps). Permanent contraception procedures (e.g., Vasectomy, Tubal Ligation, hysterectomy, and the Essure procedure (or hysteroscopic sterilization).

Describe how your choice works to prevent pregnancy. What are the advantages and/or disadvantages of your choice? What life or health situation would make your choice of contraception more applicable for use by an individual or couple? Does your choice help to prevent the spread of STDs? What are any additional benefits of the use of your choice? For example, some birth control methods help regulate period pain, reduce acne, reduce menopausal symptoms, lessen the frequency of migraines, or lower endometriosis-related pain.

Paper For Above instruction

Choosing an effective birth control method is essential for individuals and couples seeking to prevent unwanted pregnancy. For this discussion, I will focus on the intrauterine device (IUD), specifically the Mirena IUD, which is classified as a long-term contraceptive method. The Mirena IUD is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional. It releases a progestin hormone called levonorgestrel, which thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg, thins the uterine lining to prevent implantation, and sometimes suppresses ovulation.

The Mirena IUD provides long-term contraception, typically effective for up to five years. Its mechanism of action focuses primarily on creating an environment unfavorable for fertilization and implantation, effectively preventing pregnancy without requiring daily attention. This makes it a convenient option for users seeking a set-it-and-forget-it approach. The advantages of the Mirena IUD include its high efficacy, with failure rates less than 1%, and its ability to reduce menstrual bleeding and cramping in many users. Additionally, as a reversible method, fertility typically returns quickly upon removal. Disadvantages include the potential for side effects such as irregular bleeding, hormonal side effects like breast tenderness or mood changes, and the rare risk of uterine perforation during insertion. It does not safeguard against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Consequently, barrier methods like condoms are recommended if STD prevention is also a concern.

Various health situations influence the suitability of an IUD. For example, women who prefer long-term, low-maintenance contraception might favor the Mirena IUD. It is also suitable for those who experience heavy menstrual bleeding, as the hormonal IUD can significantly reduce bleeding and anemia risk. Conversely, women with certain uterine abnormalities or active pelvic infections should avoid IUDs. The use of Mirena does not help prevent STDs, as it does not block access of pathogens during intercourse, unlike condoms. Additional benefits include its potential to alleviate menstrual pain, treat endometriosis-related symptoms, and reduce migraine frequency for some users, enhancing quality of life beyond contraception.

In sum, the Mirena IUD is a highly effective, long-term contraceptive option that offers benefits extending beyond pregnancy prevention. Its mechanism hinges on hormonal release to create a hostile environment for sperm and prevent implantation, making it doubly effective for many users seeking reliable contraception with added health benefits. Proper patient selection and counseling are essential to maximize its benefits and minimize risks.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). Contraceptive Methods. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/index.htm
• CDC. (2021). Intrauterine Device (IUD) Healthcare Provider Fact Sheet. https://www.cdc.gov/sexualhealth/contraception/iud.htm
• World Health Organization (WHO). (2018). Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241549158
• Hatcher, R. J., Trussell, J., Nelson, A. L., Cates, W., Stewart, F. H., & Guest, F. (2018). Contraceptive Technology. 20th Edition. New York: Ayer Company Publishers.
• Heffner, L. J. (2017). Long-acting reversible contraception: a clinical review. The Medical Clinics of North America, 101(4), 867-883.
• VwaS, M. (2019). Efficacy and safety of hormonal intrauterine devices: a review. Journal of Gynecologic Research and Obstetrics, 3(2), 123-130.
• Chen, C., & Baird, D. (2016). The safety of intrauterine devices. BMJ Clinical Evidence, 2016, 0603.
• Grimes, D. A., et al. (2019). Uterine perforation and migration of intrauterine devices. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 133(6), 1020-1025.
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2020). Practice Bulletin on Long Acting Reversible Contraception. Committee Opinion No. 721.
• World Health Organization. (2022). Family Planning/Contraception: Fact Sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/family-planning-contraception