Aug
Selecting the best method of birth control is a very personal choice. It can also be a confusing one. It is important to understand your options. For long-term, but not permanent, birth control many women choose an intrauterine device (IUD), such as Mirena.
This is a small, flexible, plastic device in a “T” shape. It is placed in the uterus, for uninterrupted birth control lasting five years. Mirena is not available over the counter; it must be placed by a physician or other qualified health care provider.
Mirena is a multifaceted approach to birth control. This one simple device works in several ways to help prevent pregnancy. Similar to contraceptive patches, it continuously releases a low level of levonorgestrel, which mimics a naturally occurring hormone. It may also cause the lining of the uterus to become thinner and the cervical mucus thicker. The presence of an IUD also inhibits the movement of sperm toward the egg, reducing chances of fertilization.
It is important to remember that IUD devices do not offer protection from sexually transmitted diseases. Additionally, if you have certain medical conditions, such as fibroids or uterine cancer, an IUD may aggravate the condition. Dr. Jenkins can explain the wide variety of birth control options, and help you choose what is best for your situation.
Mirena may be recommended if you want long-term, hassle free birth control without committing to permanent sterilization. It is safe and highly effective for most women. There are several advantages to this birth control option including:
To learn more about your birth control options, and find out if Mirena is right for you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jenkins today.
We offer general care, gynecology, and obstetrics services that span all
stages of a woman's life. Dr. Taryll L.
Jenkins, MD, received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University and his Doctorate of
Medicine from Meharry
Medical College School of Medicine, TN. He completed his residency training at the
University of Texas and Hermann Hospital, TX and is Board-certified from the American College of
Obstetrics and Gynecology, with years of research experience.
Having graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Science in Biological
Chemistry in 2011, Dr. Stephanie
Roy received her Doctor of Medicine Degree in 2015 from the University of Texas Medical Branch. Today,
she is a leading Board-certified physician who works hard to provide you and your family with
high-quality services. In addition to spending time at the practice, Dr. Roy possesses extensive
volunteer experience in the community. She was also a tutor at the Medical Careers Diversity Program
in 2012 and, since then, has spent her free time volunteering for the St. Vincent’s Clinic.
Dr. Tiffany Ikwuagwu is passionate about caring for the diverse communities in Katy, TX. Having completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Houston, her medical degree at the Baylor College of Medicine, and her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the McGovern Medical School, she worked as principal investigator on a research project with Dr. Nana Ankumah at UT Houston. A member of the American Medical Association, Texas Medical Association, and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr. Ikwuagwu has served in several leadership roles and has made many contributions to the community.
Yara Ramirez, MD, earned her
Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University and her doctorate in medicine from the University
of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, where she also completed her residency. She won the
Resident Teaching Award from UTMB’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for two consecutive
years.
Dr. Ramirez has researched extensively on many obstetrics-related topics. She has been a Junior
Fellow Representative for the UTMB Residency Program and a Medical Student Education Committee
Member at the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She has volunteered for various local
and foreign community programs. Her fluency in Spanish and French is an asset to her organization.
Nadia Alexander is a Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center. With seven years of experience in women’s health and a focus on obstetrics and ambulatory gynecology (vaginitis, UTI, and vaginal bleeding), she provides quality, compassionate care to patients in various stages of reproductive life. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is the lead contact for our Telehealth service.