cmessina: don't get knocked up

I have my first midwifery exam tomorrow - it's covering the menstrual cycle and contraception. I was always quite knowledgeable on the subject of birth control, but now I know so much it's making my brain hurt.

However, that could just be an adverse effect of my combined oral contraceptive pills, which have a 0.3% failure rate with perfect use and an 8% failure rate with typical use. They also have non-contraceptive benefits such as decreased risk of both ovarian and endometrial cancer, but unfortunately gives me an increased risk of thromboembolic complications such as DVT and pulmonary embolism. Due to that fact I am under 35 and don't smoke the likelihood of a DVT or PE is low, so the method is considered safe with no restrictions on use (WHO Medical Eligibility Criteria 1).

Any questions?

School supplies

my very own speculum

my practice IUD (I practiced on a model, not a person)

Feeling like a michigan football player

I have been back at school for a week and have had all 6 of my 7 classes. That's right, I have 7 classes! And clinical! This time last year I had 2 - just doesn't seem right. My classes are:

1. Biostatistics
2. Advanced pathophysiology
3. Research methods
4. Health assessment ( 3hrs of lecture AND 3hrs of lab)
5. Primary care
6. Gynecology (clinical too!)
7. Newborn assessment (not starting until november)

I'm getting my a@# kicked!