Given the upcoming holiday of love and recent political controversy surrounding contraceptive methods, birth control and safe sex practices are a topic on everyone’s mind. Luckily for students, the Health and Counseling Center (HCC) offers medical care and advice.
While the birth control and safe sex methods for women outnumber what is available to men, there are many different options to choose from. According to David Odell, the medical director of HCC, many students are taking advantage of the different services offered.
“The HCC has always seen a healthy number of students seeking contraceptive methods,” said Odell. “A number of students are not yet aware that the Affordable Care Act includes providing some contraceptive measures at no additional cost to them through their insurance.”
While this is true, Odell also says this is not the case for every insurance plan. Some students may not be covered to receive free birth control, so it is important to discuss this with individual insurance carriers. It is also important to note that due to changes in federal law, the HCC will no longer carry birth control in its pharmacy, but will gladly write a prescription for nearby pharmacies.
The most common contraceptive method the HCC offers is the birth control pill, which reduces the risk of pregnancy by stopping ovulation and regulating the menstrual period. These pills can become ineffective when they are not taken on a daily basis or as directed by a doctor.
Many women are concerned with the myths surrounding the pill, particularly weight gain.
“A recent review of 44 studies noted no significant weight gain associated with taking birth control pills,” said Odell. “A few women may experience mild water weight gain when initially starting birth control pills that resolves in two to three months. Previous birth control pills contained higher doses of estrogen that caused increased appetite and fluid retention, thus weight gain. The current low dose birth control pills do not cause weight gain.”
But they are not without risk. According to Drugwatch.com, different birth control pills, such as Yaz, Yasmin and Ocella, are known to cause a higher rate of blood clots in women.
“Each method comes with risks and benefits that are discussed with the student,” said Odell. “At the HCC, we offer student visits to discuss the various options with a medical provider and help students decide which option is best for them. We even have a gynecological consultant that offers IUD insertion in her office.”
Intrauterine devices (IUD), such as Mirena, are long-term birth control methods that are placed in the uterus and release hormones that prevent pregnancy. They can be used for up to five years, but can be removed at anytime. IUD also has some risks involved.
“There is a small increased risk of pelvic infection with intrauterine devices,” said Odell.
Other popular forms of birth control for women include the contraceptive ring, such as Nuvaring. This ring is placed into the vagina where it stays there for three weeks. At the end of three weeks it is taken out and a new one is put in a week later. This is a very effective form of birth control and cannot be felt by women who use it.
“No contraceptive method is 100 percent effective, and the risks of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases are always present,” said Odell. “Contraceptive choice is a very personal decision best made with your medical provider, who can help you decide which option is best.”
When it comes to men, there are very few birth control and safe sex methods other than condoms. According to Odell, a male contraceptive pill is currently being researched and studied but is not yet available on the market.
“The only other option would be a surgical procedure called a vasectomy, which is a permanent form of sterilization for men,” said Odell.
A vasectomy is sometimes possible to reverse, but only through extensive surgical procedures, according to WebMD.com.
It is also very important to be screened for sexually transmitted infections on a regular basis. In honor of Valentine’s Day, Denver Health will be offering free STI testing on Feb. 13 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Driscoll Student Center located on the first floor next to the pioneer I.D. card office. During this time, The Denver AIDS Project will also be providing students with free HIV testing, which is usually done by taking a small blood sample.
The HCC offers STI testing and treatment at any time.
“We screen women for STIs during their annual pelvic examination,” said Odell. “If you or your partner are concerned for any sexually transmitted infections don’t wait, get tested.”
The HCC, located in the Ritchie Center, is available to all DU students, undergraduate and graduate. Many of their services are covered by the health and counseling fee that is included with tuition.
To make an appointment with HCC, go to their website at du.edu/duhealth/ or call their front desk at 303-871-2205.
