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.

Hepatitis B is a virus that affects the liver. It is more prevalent in Asia and Africa and can be either acute (more common), resolving itself relatively quickly with no long term liver damage, or chronic (in about 20% of cases) lasting six months or more, and sometimes even for life with symptoms coming and going randomly.

Hepatitis B is normally transmitted via contact with infected bodily fluids or blood and only a very small amount of blood is required to transmit the disease because it is that infectious. In the developed world the virus is normally spread via sharing of contaminated needles, unprotected sex and the sharing such things as razor blades. In less developed countries where blood products are not screened properly or medical equipment is not sterilized adequately, this can also lead to the spread of the virus.

Hepatitis B viruses have an incubation period of between six weeks and six months, but approximately one third of all cases show no symptoms of the disease at all. In another third of cases, symptoms appear flu-like in nature and can include aches, pains and weakness; fever; headaches; loss of appetite; jaundice; diarrhea; and, vomiting and nausea. In the last third of cases, the virus can cause severe illness that can last for a long time (many months in some cases).

Vaccines are available nowadays against hepatitis B, but treatment for those infected normally includes nothing more than rest and recuperation. Drug treatments may be required for chronic types of the disease, to prevent damage to the liver and other parts of the body.

West Nile Virus is a disease which is spread by mosquitoes and for the most part is not a serious disease.  Often there are no symptoms but sometimes if an infected mosquito bites somebody it can lead to inflammation of the brain, spinal cord or the tissues which surround the brain and spinal cord.

The West Nile Virus is caused when a mosquito feeds on an infected bird and then bites an animal or human.  Most of the time people with West Nile Virus have no symptoms but some people experience symptoms which include headache, muscle ache, loss of appetite, fever, nausea, vomiting, back pain, abdominal pain, sore throat and diarrhea.  The symptoms will usually surface roughly three to 14 days after the infected mosquito bite and will last for approximately three to six days.

There can be complications however, and sometimes the virus can cause an infection of the brain and nervous system.  Symptoms of this would include severe headaches, high fever, stiff neck, lack of co-ordination, muscle tremors, convulsions, coma, disorientation, coma or even partial paralysis.

West Nile Virus is not serious if symptoms are mild.  However, if the virus spreads to the brain or spinal cord it can lead to brain damage or death.

The best way to avoid the virus is to protect against mosquito bites at all times when away.  It is advisable to check whether the virus is present in the country you are visiting and take extra precautions against being bitten.

West Nile Virus