Debunking Birth Control Myths and Preparing for Your Pap with Dr. Erika Radford (Ep. 4)

Birth control can be a little confusing. Don’t worry, we got you! In this episode, Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell are joined by Dr. Erika Radford, assistant medical director for Student Health at Texas Tech University, to explore various birth control options and dispel myths surrounding them. They discuss the effectiveness and reversibility of long-term options like the Nexplanon implant and IUDs, including for women without children. Dr. Radford clarifies misconceptions about insertion and removal procedures and addresses the effectiveness of non-hormonal methods. The conversation also covers cervical health, differentiating between pap smears and pelvic exams, and the importance of communication and consent during such procedures. The doctors share information about:  Birth control options and effectiveness Common myths associated with birth control Concerns about weight gain, cancer risk, and infertility related to hormonal birth control methods Non-hormonal birth control options The importance of open communication between patients and healthcare providers Cervical cancer screening and pap smears And more Resources: CDC: Contraception CDC: Cervical Cancer Previous Episodes of Interest: Navigating Infertility & Checking Your Ta Tas (Ep. 2) Connect with Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell:  The Med Edit Podcast Instagram: @TheMedEditPodcast Facebook: The Med Edit Podcast LinkedIn: The Med Edit Podcast LinkedIn: Dr. Jessica Gray LinkedIn: Dr. Cari Sorrell About Dr. Erika Radford: Dr. Erika Radford is a board-certified Family Medicine Physician and associate medical director for Texas Tech University Student Health. She is a graduate of the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine as well as completing her residency at TTUHSC Family and Community Medicine. Dr. Radford specializes in college health which includes all aspects of student wellness including mental and sexual health. She also takes calls as a hospitalist where she takes care of the sickest patients in need, including in the ICU setting. Dr. Radford is a wife and mother with a passion for women’s health and education.