Family Planning Specialist

Birth control implants are currently among the top-rated family planning options with a 99% and higher effectiveness rate for pregnancy prevention. Implants involve placing a tiny rod into your body that continuously releases hormones, which act to prevent pregnancy for years.

Intrauterine devices (IUD) are also over 99% effective for several years, and involve inserting a specialized device into your cervix. The implant either delivers hormonal medication or is composed of materials that interact with sperm to prevent pregnancy.

Other commonly used, safe, and effective birth control types include pills and shots, which are 91%-94% effective. Alternatively, you can request birth control patches, which are 91% effective, or use male condoms, which are over 85% effective.

In most cases, no. The best solution for preventing the spread of disease and infection, aside from abstinence, is the male condom. When used correctly, it’s still one of the top STD-prevention and birth control methods available.

Doctor-issued hormonal treatments, implants, and IUDs don’t prevent STDs. These birth control methods don’t provide a physical barrier for your body. Plus, you can have a higher risk of developing painful urinary tract infections (UTI) if you don’t use a barrier, such as a condom.

UTIs can affect both men and women, although women are most prone to developing them, often as a side effect of sexual intercourse. If you feel pain during sexual activity or in your lower pelvic area, or burning while urinating, schedule an appointment with Dr. Shenouda and request a urinalysis.

Once the urinalysis confirms that you have a UTI, Dr. Shenouda can prescribe medication based on the specific type of bacteria that is causing it. Generally, antibiotics are the best way to treat a UTI. To alleviate your symptoms as quickly as possible, you should drink plenty of fluids to flush out lingering bacteria.

For recurring UTIs, Dr. Shenouda may prescribe low-dose antibiotics for a longer period of time. If you’re also postmenopausal, he might recommend estrogen therapy, since low estrogen levels can make you more prone to UTIs.

To get started with family planning or birth control, book an appointment at the office of Emile Shenouda, MD, through the online scheduling feature, or over the phone.