C B Heath | PubMed Health

PubMed1995

Chlamydia trachomatis infection update.

Chlamydia trachomatis has become the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. Aggressive screening of sexually active young adults is needed, as well as prompt and reliable treatment of infected partners, to mitigate the effects of this disease. Tests using enzyme immunoassay and DNA probe have increased the efficiency of diagnosis through rapid detection, although culture remains the most reliable test. Treatment with single-dose azithromycin is a successful alternative to the definitive treatment, seven days of doxycycline therapy.

Chlamydia Infections↗

PubMed1993

Helping patients choose appropriate contraception.

Helping patients choose the proper contraceptive requires familiarity with the specific advantages and disadvantages, as well as failure rates, of available methods. Spermicides, condoms and contraceptive sponges are inexpensive and do not require physician prescription. Diaphragms and cervical caps help protect against sexually transmitted diseases but are more difficult to use effectively. Oral contraceptives are highly effective but have estrogen- and progesterone-related side effects. Norplant is ideally suited for less motivated users but requires an office surgical procedure. Depo-Provera provides another long-term option but may result in amenorrhea. Intrauterine devices provide long-term contraception without hormonal side effects but increase the risk of pelvic infection and may cause heavy menstrual bleeding. Tubal ligation and vasectomy are options for permanent contraception when childbearing is no longer desired.

Aftercare↗