tips for better mammogram?

[redrhodie]

Another week down! I'm more than halfway done with radiation. I am feeling pretty tired, but I'm still riding. I'm so glad the lbs canceled today's ride, because it would have been too much for me. I rode an easy paced 18 miles alone instead. Felt great, but now I'm wiped out. My skin still looks good, and I have a little tenderness, which might be unrelated to the rads.

I met with a new OBGYN to discuss contraception, and that was an eye opener. I thought I'd get a diaphragm or cervical cap, but instead was told those weren't good options for me, since I need something more failsafe. I'm scheduled to get an IUD in a couple of weeks. My other choice was tubal ligation. I can almost hear the creaky steel door of my fertility slamming shut (which is okay, since I never wanted kids). I'm almost looking forward to menopause. I'll be reading your hot flash stories with envy.

[sookiesue]

My OB/GYN recommended Essure for those who are certain they do not want kids. Apparently it's a very simple procedure and much easier than tubal ligation. I think there is another similar procedure available now (can't remember the name) that might be worth exploring if you're looking for a permanent solution to birth control. But I also know a number of women who have been happy with the Mirena IUD - although since that does have some hormones it may not be appropriate for everyone.

Is a vasectomy for your partner an option? : )

Good luck with your decision, and I hope you continue to do well with your treatment. I have followed this thread and am amazed at your positive outlook and strength. You are inspiring!

[Crankin]

Glad you are still getting out there, especially in this no winter winter we are having.
How many more weeks of treatments do you have?

[redrhodie]

I'll be done around Valentine's Day.

Essure was one of the methods discussed. I chose the Paragard IUD over the other options for a few reasons. It's non hormonal, a short in office procedure, and will last for 12 years, long enough to get me through. It works right away, too. Essure is surgery, it takes 3 months to form scar tissue, so you need a backup during that period, then there's another procedure where dye is injected to make sure it's working. I could see doing that if the IUD doesn't work, but at this point, the Paragard seems like my best option.

Vasectomy is not a great option for us.

[maillotpois]

I'll be done around Valentine's Day.

What a great Valentines gift!

[redrhodie]

Actually, I got it (Paragard) yesterday! My cycle has a mind of its own these days; let me tell you, 10 days early was a fine how do you do. I knew that mattered for insertion, so I called to reschedule and they fit me right in. It was pretty much a surprise party. Very fun. Actually, it didn't hurt (aside from a little fainting later). I rode today. I might be tougher than Jens Voight.

[Blueberry]

Actually, it didn't hurt (aside from a little fainting later). I rode today. I might be tougher than Jens Voight.

Fainting and riding today? Yeah - I think you are tougher. Seriously - you are a rockstar!