FAQs

FAQs

Reproductive Health

What is the difference between a hormonal IUD and the copper IUD?
There are two hormonal IUD’s: Mirena® and Kyleena®. They both contain a synthetic hormone called levonorgestrel. Once the Mirena® or Kyleena® is inserted into the uterus a small amount of the levonorgestrel hormone is released daily. This small amount of levonorgestrel prevents pregnancy by:

  • Thickening the cervical mucus which makes the passage of the sperm through the cervical
    canal (entrance to the uterus) more difficult.
  • Reducing the monthly thickening of the lining of the uterus; thereby, lightening or eliminating your period.
  • Mirena® contains 52 mcg of Levonorgestrel and Kyleena® contains 19.5 mcg of Levonorgestrel. Both IUD’s can be used for 5 years to prevent pregnancy.

The Copper IUD is a small, soft piece of plastic wrapped in copper. The copper changes the chemical environment in the uterus making it more difficult for the egg and sperm to survive. The copper IUD supplied by Woman’s Health Options can remain in the uterus for up to 5 years.

Can I buy the IUD from Woman’s Health Options?
  • You can purchase the Mirena® and Kyleena® IUD here. The cost for both is $390.00. The copper IUD we have is the Mona Lisa and you can purchase it for $60.00.
  • We are unable to direct bill like a pharmacy. If you have health insurance or benefits you will get a receipt you can use to submit for reimbursement.
  • If you have a valid and active Alberta Health Care number, there is no cost for the IUD insertion.
Are the results of tests done at the clinic on NetCare?
The results for any of the tests done at the clinic are on NetCare and may be accessed only by a licensed physician or other authorized personnel.
How often do I need a pap smear?
At the age of 25 you should have a pap smear done every 3 years unless otherwise indicated by your healthcare provider.

What is a Pap Smear (Cervical Screening)

A pap test is the main screening test for cervical cancer in Alberta. A pap test (or what some used to call pap smear) checks the cells of your cervix, to make sure there are no abnormal cells. Abnormal cells can change over time and become cancerous without pain or symptoms

Please click here for more information on Pap Smear/Test (Cervical Screening)

What is BV?
Bacterial Vaginosis is a change in the normal bacteria of the vagina. Every person with a uterus has harmless bacteria in their vagina; in bacterial vaginosis some of the bacteria multiply too much. The exact cause of BV is unknown.
What is gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection and it is caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Gonorrhea is spread through unprotected oral, anal and vaginal sex with an infected person. If you would like more information about Gonorrhea you can visit the sexuality and u website at: www.sexualityandu.ca
What is chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. It is among the most common STI’s in the world. Chlamydia is spread by having unprotected oral, anal and vaginal sex. If you would like more information about Chlamydia you can visit the sexuality and u website at: www.sexualityandu.ca
What is syphilis?
Syphilis is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. It is generally a very rare STI, but it can cause serious and permanent damage to the body if it is not cured. Syphilis is spread through unprotected oral, anal and vaginal sex. An infected pregnant person can also pass the infection to their unborn child. If you would like more information about Syphilis you can visit the sexuality and u website at: www.sexualityandu.ca