Questions and Answers
Could a zinc supplement damage a ParaGard IUD? #1205/14
Q:      Dear Dr. Hatcher, Can a half year or so of zinc supplementation damage a ParaGard IUD or make it less effective? I’ve come across a few articles saying copper and zinc “antagonize†each other, but those articles are older (70’s and 80’s)...
What are my 16 year-old patient’s options if she wants fewer periods? #1204/14
Q:      I have a 16 year-old patient who began using oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) extended cycling for acne and heavy menses. She developed chronic exercise related shortness of breath and had extensive negative pulmonary and cardiac work up. I had her...
Is it safe to take Postinor 2 if there is a possibility I might be pregnant? #1203/14
Q: Can I take Postinor -2 if I am not pregnant or I don't know if I am? A: Good morning, Yes, whether or not you are pregnant you may take a dose of Postinor or several doses of Postinor.But, Postinor and other emergency contraceptive pills are NOT as effective as...
After a year of irregular bleeding and spotting with the Implanon implant, I had sex without a condom and my bleeding stopped. Could I be pregnant? #105/15
Q:Â Â Â Â Â Â I've always been extremely paranoid about becoming pregnant, which is why I got the Implanon implant in the first place, but my irregular bleeding is worrying me. I got my implant in September 2013, and have had irregular bleeding ever since that...
Should I switch pills since I am experiencing breast pain with my current pills? #106/15
Q:Â Â Â Â Â Â I am currently on Minastrin Fe 24 and I am having breast pain. I know that this is a side-effect, however it is bothersome. I do not want to go to any pill that is lower in hormones out of fear of breakthrough bleeding (BTB) and other side-effects....
After 4 years of using the Mirena IUD at age 52, I am having some brown discharge. Should I have it removed? #104/15
Q:      I am 52 years old. I have been using my Mirena for a full 4 years. I have not had any problems so far, but I will also say I did not have normal periods of bleeding. I had a few blood discharges on wiping only. I did not have a proper period since I...