The intrauterine device (IUD), otherwise known as the coil, is a device made from copper or plastic which is placed into the uterus as a form of contraception. Its function is to stop the sperm finding and fertilizing an egg and can also prevent any fertilized eggs attaching to the uterus lining. IUD’s made from copper have an added benefit as copper is a spermicidal (able to kill sperm).

IUD’s are nowadays 99% effective at preventing pregnancy and there are several different types available; each type staying in place for varying amounts of time (some even five to ten years). The advantages of having an IUD inserted are many: once inserted a woman can effectively “forget” about contraception, unlike the pill, for example, where they would have to remember to take it every day; it doesn’t interfere with sexual intercourse; no side effects as it is not an hormonal method; and it doesn’t increase any risk of future cancers.

IUD Intrauterine Device

Most females will have no problems with an IUD, but occasional disadvantages that may occur include: heavy, painful periods; infection of the uterus normally within the first twenty days after insertion; ectopic pregnancy risk should the female become pregnant while wearing a coil; and, damage to the womb.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune condition that affects the nerves located in the brain and spinal cord, giving rise to issues with muscle control, balance and vision. It can also affect memory as well as associated mood swings and emotions.

MS sufferers can find that their symptoms are different from other sufferers, while also varying from day to day. Sufferers often find that the symptoms can get worse with exercise or heat. In general though, the most common symptoms of MS are problems with the eyes (blurring and double vision); muscle weakness or stiffness; fatigue; loss of coordination; bowel and bladder issues; tingling or numbness of the skin; general pain; anxiety and depression; difficulty swallowing and talking; and sexual problems. Although these may appear to be many symptoms, a sufferer is highly unlikely to develop all of them and certainly not at the same time.

There are four kinds of MS: benign MS, relapsing-remitting MS, secondary progressive MS and primary progressive MS. The exact reasons that an individual contracts the condition are not fully understood at this present moment in time, although several different factors are thought to be implicated. Although it is not a hereditary condition, having specific genes may make a person more susceptible to it. There could also be some environmental factors involved – bacteria or viruses may trigger the immune system to attack its own body. Also, the place of residence may be an issue. It is known, for example, that MS is more common in countries further from the equatorial regions.

Although there are treatments available for the symptoms of MS, there isn’t actually a cure at present.

Multiple Sclerosis

Genital warts are considered to be the most common form of STD (sexually transmitted disease) and are caused by the virus called human papilloma virus (HPV).  Genital warts can be transmitted during sexual activity and by skin-to-skin contact with an individual who has the virus.

When the warts appear after infection, they can either be internal or external. In women they tend to be located in the vulva, the vagina, the anus and the cervix, whereas in men they can be found on the penis, the urethra and scrotum, as well as inside or on the anus.

It usually takes from between two weeks right up to several months for warts to appear after infection, and most individuals affected will not have any symptoms at all. People that do develop the warts may notice tiny, flesh-like growths which may appear anywhere in the anal or genital area. These are normally painless, but sometimes they can start itching.

Genital Warts

If an individual suspects that they may have genital warts, a medical appointment would have to be made, where the doctor would carry out a physical examination of the entire genital region, the anus included. The virus can never be eliminated from the body once infected, so outbreaks can occur spontaneously. Treatment for the visible warts though, include special liquids or cream put onto the wart, cryotherapy (freezing the warts off) or heat treatment to burn them off, removal by surgery or a less common method is to inject them with a certain drug.