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TV Checkup

We're obsessed with television. As employees of America's number one health site, we often find ourselves questioning the medicine behind our favorite medical TV shows. Do the docs on ER and House really know their stuff? And just how common is that rare disease on last night's Grey's Anatomy?

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WebMD Health News

Friday, October 20, 2006

This Week's CC: Dr. Smith Responds
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So on a lighter note, Grey did delve into the ole IUD (Intrauterine device) getting hooked on the genital piercing, which led to a couple staying connected for a little longer than they intended.

An IUD is placed inside the uterus, but it is possible for it to slip out of the uterus and into the vagina without realizing it. This can lead to pregnancy in women with an IUD because they are no longer protected.

Of course throw in the piercing and you could have a real mess. Could it happen? Sure. Why not? "Do they still use IUDs?" Yep, they do.

And IUDs are a very effective form of birth control, particularly for women in a monogamous relationship as IUDs do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

And I can't underestimate the need for both men and women to protect themselves against STDs, which are at epidemic proportions.

Nearly two million people get chlamydia or gonorrhea each year. Genital herpes, which is an incurable, life-long infection, affects about 20% of all Americans! And unless you and your partner are using a condom, you're dealing with danger.

What can I say? I'm passionate about prevention and screening - whether it's breast cancer or STDs. While some things happen no matter what steps you take, doesn't it make you feel better that you're at least doing what you can to stay healthy?

Posted by: Michael_Smith_MD at 10/20/2006 02:00:00 PM

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