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.

When a part of the small or large intestine (the bowels) becomes blocked, either totally or partially so that stools cannot get through, this is known as a bowel obstruction; and it can happen to anybody.

Blockages can occur for a number of reasons. Some of these include hernia, gallstones, tumors, abnormal growth of tissue, a twisted intestine or foreign body (by swallowing a non-food item).

Bowel Obstruction

A blocked bowel is usually a serious condition that requires medical attention. Sometimes, the intestine may have to be decompressed which is achieved by the insertion of a (nasogastric) tube into the stomach. If this doesn’t manage to resolve the blockage then surgery may be required.

There are some complications associated with bowel obstructions. If not treated, for example, a part of the bowel tissue could die resulting in infection and even in some cases, gangrene. There is also the possibility of the intestine becoming perforated, and this is a medical emergency should it happen.

The symptoms of a blocked bowel can include the total lack of stools as none can get through, or diarrhea as only liquid stools can get through. Pain, bloating and cramps also point to a blocked bowel, as do bad breath and vomiting. Diagnosis of a bowel obstruction is carried out be a physical examination in combination with diagnostic tests.

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder otherwise known as trisomy and it is where an individual has inherited an additional or extra copy of a particular chromosome. In the case of Down’s syndrome, the affected individuals have three copies rather than two of chromosome 21. The consequence of this additional copy is that it changes the balance of the body resulting in characteristic intellectual and physical features.

Down Syndrome

There are three kinds of Down’s syndrome: regular trisomy 21 which is where all the cells in the body have an extra chromosome 21 and is the most common type of the condition with nearly 94% affected with Down’s having it; translocation, which is where extra chromosome 21 material attaches to another chromosome, and four percent have this type; and mosaic, which is where only some of the cells have additional chromosome 21. This usually has milder features than the other two types and only two percent of affected individuals have mosaic.

Down syndrome sufferers look different to normal people and usually have a flat type of facial profile with eyes slanting upwards. Smaller ears, protruding tongue and a flat back of the head are other features. Individuals affected tend to be shorter than normal, have poor muscle tone and have broad, short hands. Half the affected individuals have a heart defect, which can be treated in some, but not others. Some have problems with their gut, making it difficult to eat while increasing the risk of constipation and thyroid problems.

There is no cure for Down syndrome but there are treatments available for the accompanying symptoms as well as support for the learning difficulties.