How do Contraceptive (Spermicidal) Suppositories work?

They work by immobilizing the sperm by chemical actions and need to be inserted at least 5 minutes prior to intercourse. The effect lasts for an hour and usually gives protection for a single coitus. If she desires to indulge in intercourse again, she will need another suppository. Some of them are biodegradable and need not be removed after use. Instructions regarding use should be very clear and lucid. There are instances of women who have used spermicidal suppositories orally and some who have inserted them in the anus! It is best to use them under the guidance of a gynecologist.

What is an IntraUterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD)?

It is a contraceptive device which has to be inserted into the uterus.

There are medicated and non-medicated varieties available. The advantages include: the one time motivation, no systemic metabolic side effects, no interference with local sensitivity, high success rate and long duration of action. The disadvantages include increased incidence of pelvic inflammatory disease, increased bleeding, dysmenorrhoea and increased risk of ectopic pregnancy.

What are the contraindications for using an IntraUterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD)?

IUCD should not be used if a woman has menorrhagia (excessive bleeding), an abnormal uterine cavity; undiagnosed bleeding from the uterus or the vagina; pelvic infection; history of ectopic pregnancy or tubal surgery. IUCD is generally not advised for women who have not yet borne a child.

Are alcohol and smoking safe during pregnancy?

No, both alcohol and smoking are unsafe during pregnancy as they lead to intrauterine growth retardation.

Can stretch marks on the breasts and abdomen following pregnancy be removed by any medicines?

No. Once stretch marks have occurred, they may somewhat decrease in size on their own but cannot be removed by any medicines or creams. They also occur during puberty, obesity, and Gushing’s syndrome besides pregnancy.

When can a women resume sexual intercourse after delivery?

One should not indulge in sexual intercourse:

• If the episiotomy scar (the cut made to ease the birth of the baby) has not healed properly.
• If there is bleeding per vaginum. Usually, after three weeks of delivery a woman can comfortably resume sexual activity.

Is episiotomy necessary during normal delivery?

Yes. It may be advised largely because it facilitates delivery of the fetal head, prevents vaginal and perineal tears, prevents excessive vaginal laxity, and prolapse of the uterus, bladder and rectum.

Can a virgin become pregnant?

Yes. If the sperms are deposited near the vulva, they may pass through the small hole of an intact hymen and may travel up through the full length of the vagina and uterus and meet the ovum resulting in a pregnancy.

Is sex safe during pregnancy?

Usually, a healthy woman can safely indulge in sexual activity during pregnancy. However, coitus should be avoided if there is pain and/or bleeding at any stage. If the woman has aborted in the first three months in the past, coitus during the first trimester should be avoided. In the second trimester coitus is contraindicated if the woman has a history of ‘habitual abortion’ because the cervical Os or the mouth of the uterus is ‘incompetent’ to hold the foetus. In the last trimester i.e. from the seventh month to labour, one may safely indulge in sexual activity till the day of delivery by altering the position so as to ensure that the direct weight does not fall on the foetus.

It must be understood that whenever, because of any reason, intercourse is forbidden during pregnancy, the woman must avoid reaching orgasm by any other means including masturbation. The contractions of the uterus following masturbation are far more intense as compared to normal sexual intercourse.

An obstetrician may be consulted regarding the indulgence in sexual activity during pregnancy, as each case needs to be evaluated individually about any possible contraindication or modification to be made.