Author: Tallia

Prevention and importance of vaccination

Due to the pandemic and restrictions, the influenza virus has been almost non-existent over the last 2 years. However, with borders opening and travel recommencing, it is predicted that influenza rates will begin to increase. It is therefore very important to receive your annual flu shot this year.

Whilst flu vaccination does not prevent COVID-19, flu vaccination is critical to protecting the general health of Australians from influenza, which can take between 100 to 1,000 lives per year depending on the severity.

Expert medical advice is that everyone aged six months and over should be vaccinated against influenza this year, and every year, to protect themselves and others in the community.

The National Immunisation Program provides free vaccines to those most at risk, including:

  • pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy;
  • all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and older;
  • people aged 65 years and older;
  • people aged six months and older with certain medical risk factors

Vaccinating against the flu will reduce the risk of a very dangerous double-up of flu and coronavirus—both diseases affecting the respiratory system. Vaccinated people of all ages are less likely to get the flu and if they do, are less likely to have a severe case. Fewer cases and fewer severe cases of flu will result in less demand on our health care system.

Eastbound Medical Clinic is now offering flu vaccines. To make an appointment, please click here.

(Australian Department of Health, 2022)

What is an IUD?

The intrauterine device (IUD) is a small device made of plastic and/or metal that is inserted into the uterus (womb) to prevent pregnancy.

The two main types of IUDs available at Eastbound are:

  • Hormonal IUD

The hormonal IUDs are small ‘T-shaped’ plastic devices that are inserted into the uterus (womb). The hormonal IUDs contain progestogen, which is a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone made naturally by the ovaries. There are two different hormonal IUDs available in Australia. They are sold as Mirena and Kyleena.

  • Non-hormonal copper IUD

The non-hormonal copper IUD is a small plastic device with copper wire coiled (wrapped) around the frame. It is inserted into the uterus (womb) where it constantly releases a small amount of copper.

How effective is the IUD?

Both IUD types are among the most effective methods of contraception and are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. The IUD can stay in place for 5-10 years, depending on the type.

How does the IUD work?

IUDs affect the way sperm move and survive in the uterus (womb), stopping sperm from meeting and fertilising an egg. IUDs can also change the lining of the uterus, making it difficult for a fertilised egg to stick to the lining to start a pregnancy. The hormone IUDs also work by thickening the fluid around the cervix. This helps to prevent sperm from entering. Sometimes the hormonal IUDs can also stop the ovaries from releasing an egg.

How do I use the IUD?

The IUD is inserted inside the uterus (womb) by a trained doctor or nurse. The IUD insertion takes around 15 minutes, but you will be in the clinic for an hour or more.

The IUD has a fine nylon string attached to it which comes through the cervix. The string cannot be seen, and it does not hang out of the vagina. If you feel high up inside your vagina, you can check that the string is there and know the IUD is still in place. It is good to do this every month. If the string feels like it is shorter or longer than normal or you can’t feel the string at all, the IUD may have shifted, and you should see a doctor or nurse.

Where can I get the hormonal IUD?

Your doctor will provide a script that you can take to the pharmacy, which will sell you the IUD. You will need to return to the clinic to have the IYD inserted.

Private IUD Fee Structure

For private patients: upfront cost of $247.35 with an out of pocket expense (gap payment) of $221.45 after Medicare.

For cardholders (pension and health care cards): upfront cost of $223.00 with an out of pocket expense (gap payment) of $152.10 after Medicare.

IUD Benefits

  • An extremely effective method of contraception
  • Once inserted you will only need to check the strong each month
  • It can last up to 5-10 years (depending on the type)
  • You can use it while breastfeeding
  • No medications stop it from working
  • It can be taken out at any time by a doctor
  • Once removed your fertility quickly returns to what is normal for you
  • It is another contraceptive option if you have difficulty taking the hormone oestrogen. The Pill (combined pill or oral contraceptive pill) and vaginal ring (NuvaRing) contain oestrogen and progestogen. The hormonal IUD only contains progestogen

Possible side effects

  • When first inserted some users experience period-like cramping that usually settles after a few days
  • Your vaginal bleeding pattern (period) will change. Spotting or frequent bleeding is common in the first 3-6 months
  • The hormonal IUD can cause side effects for a small number of users, including headaches, changes to your skin, sore/tender breasts, and mood changes

Disadvantages of the IUD

  • Both types of IUDs require insertion by a trained doctor
  • Sometimes the IUD can fall out. This is more common in the first 3 months of it being inserted
  • In about 1 in 500 users, the doctor can make a small hole in the wall of the uterus while inserting the IUD. The IUD can move through the hole and sit in the wrong place. You would need keyhole surgery to have it removed
  • Around 1 in 300 users get an infection when the IUD is first inserted. This is usually successfully treated with antibiotics
  • It is very unlikely to get pregnant when using the IUD. If you do get pregnant with an IUD, there is a higher chance of ectopic pregnancy. This means that the pregnancy may settle in the fallopian tubes
  • Neither type of IUD protects against sexually transmissible infections (STIs)

How to make an appointment?

An initial appointment with Dr Saveena Nithiananthan is required to discuss the procedure, provide informed consent and organise a script for the device. The procedure can then be booked after the initial consult. The procedure will require approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

To make an initial consult, please contact our friendly reception team on 9579 3522 or head online and make an online booking with Dr Saveena Nithiananthan.

(Sexual Health Victoria, 2022)