The Winnipeg Women’s Health & Contraception Clinic
At the The Winnipeg Women’s Health & Contraception Clinic, we focus on ensuring our patients are equipped with all of the information, support, and care they need in making informed choices regarding their health. We provide guidance regarding the right birth control options for your lifestyle, offer prenatal and postnatal advice, and support women as they transition through menopause.
About Dr. Famuyide
Dr. Famuyide is the Founder & Medical Director of The Winnipeg Women’s Health & Contraception Clinic. She is a former practicing pharmacist turned family physician with a passion for women’s health. After the completion of her family medicine training, her passion led to the completion of a 12-month comprehensive fellowship program at the University of Toronto, a world leading institution in women’s health. She has expertise in reproductive health, sexual health, advanced contraception, procedures (e.g. IUDs, implants, endometrial biopsies) and menopause. She is also a Certified Menopause Practitioner with the North American Menopause Society. Dr. Famuyide is a known expert in the area of women’s health, having been invited to speak on a variety of topics to medical students, family medicine trainees, family physicians, pharmacists, and at multiple conferences.
Follow me at:
Instagram: @dr.famuyidemd
IUD & Contraceptive Implant
Did you know that 50 percent of pregnancies in Canada are unplanned and half of these are the results of contraceptive failure? It is important to know that not all unplanned pregnancies are unwanted. We strongly believe in the importance of educating and informing patients on the available options for contraception, ensuring they have improved access to the most effective forms of contraception on the market; long acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) (IUDs and implants).
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are one of the most recognized LARCs that have various uses including contraception, management of heavy menstrual bleeding, painful menses and endometriosis. They are most commonly used for contraception (including emergency contraception) due to their convenience and are an excellent choice for any women of child-bearing age.
The Winnipeg Women’s Health & Contraception Clinic is compliant with RAICE (Rapid Access IUD Centres of Excellence). RAICE is a network of clinics and health care providers across Canada who are experts in IUD insertion and care.
RAICE clinics must meet the following criteria:
- Have an expert IUD insertion team
- Accept patients making their own appointments without referral by their health care provider
- Appointments for IUD discussion and insertion made quickly
- Offer training in their communities to the public and/or to other health care providers
- Are committed to continuously improving the care they provide
- Must provide access to the copper IUD as emergency contraception
Choosing your IUD
| Copper IUDs | |
|---|---|
| Types | Various forms available (your physician can help you decide on the best fit for you). Major brands: Mona Lisa™, Liberte™ |
| Cost | ~ $70 – $100 |
| How does it work? | Releases copper into the uterus resulting in an inflammatory reaction, which prevents sperm from fertilizing the egg |
| How well does it prevent pregnancy | 99.3% effective |
| How long does it last for? | Varies: 2.5 to 12 years |
| Bleeding profile | Expect 20% to 50% more bleeding |
| Advantages | Does not contain hormones May reduce the risk of endometrial cancer Safe in breastfeeding |
| Disadvantages | Expect 20% to 50% more cramping and bleeding |
| Emergency Contraception | Yes, it is 99% effective for emergency contraception when inserted within 5 days of unprotected intercourse |
| Hormonal IUDs | |
|---|---|
| Types | Mirena®, Kyleena® |
| Cost | ~ $400 (these costs may be covered by third party insurance) |
| How does it work? | Releases levonorgestrel, a progesterone-like hormone into the uterus, which helps to thicken cervical mucous making it difficult for the sperm and egg to meet. It also thins out the uterine lining, making it a good choice for women with heavy menses |
| How well does it prevent pregnancy | 99.7% effective |
| How long does it last for? | 5 years (7 years if > 25 years of age at time of insertion) |
| Bleeding profile | Improves bleeding, so a good choice for women wanting lighter periods or those with a history of heavy menstrual bleeding |
| Advantages | Does not contain estrogen Decreases menstrual bleeding profile May reduce the risk of endometrial cancer May be a treatment option for women with endometriosis or adenomyosis Safe in breastfeeding |
| Disadvantages | May experience bleeding the first 3 months, which eventually settles Some women may experience mild acne |
| Emergency Contraception | No |
Note: Copper IUDs are available for sale at the clinic. If you are unsure of which device is best for you, it is best to book a consultation to review your options in order to determine which device is best suited for you.
Prior to your procedure:
- Review the information above and come prepared with your questions to the first appointment
- No unprotected intercourse for a minimum of two weeks prior to your IUD insertion appointment
- If you currently have an IUD in place, abstain from intercourse for one week prior to your appointment
- Come to your appointment prepared to provide a urine sample (we always want to rule out pregnancy prior to your insertion)
- Take 600-800mg of ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) one hour prior to the appointment if you are able to tolerate for pain control
- You are welcome to bring a support person to join you during your appointment if needed
- Please watch the following video, which describes what occurs during your procedure.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIcjaR69Yks
The procedure takes place in the office and takes approximately 20 minutes. The actual insertion itself only takes a few minutes.
After your procedure:
- You may continue to experience cramping for up to 7 days. You are welcome to manage this cramping with 600mg to 800mg of ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) every 6-8 hours as needed
- Avoid the use of tampons, menstrual cups or intercourse within the first 24 hours after your procedure to reduce the risk of infection
- If you develop symptoms of fever, abnormal vaginal discharge or lower abdominal pain, please call the clinic at 204-958-6777
- You are encouraged to use back-up contraception (e.g. condoms, abstinence) for 6 weeks after your insertion as the risk for expulsion of the device is greatest during this period of time
- Book your 6-week IUD check-up appointment to review your IUD and to make sure it is in good position
Contraceptive Implant- Nexplanon®
Nexplanon® is another long acting reversible contraceptive that has been demonstrated to be highly effective at preventing pregnancy. It contains a progestin called etonogestrel located within a flexible rod inserted into the arm.
| Cost | ~ $300 (these costs may be covered by third party insurance) |
| How does it work? | Releases a progestin called etonorgestrel which slowly releases hormones to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucous making it difficult for fertilization to occur |
| How well does it prevent pregnancy | 99.9% effective |
| How long does it last for? | 3 years |
| Bleeding profile | May decrease bleeding in some women overtime |
| Advantages | Does not contain estrogen
Safe in breastfeeding Decreases menstrual cramps and PMS |
| Disadvantages | Irregular menstrual bleeding, which may last for up to 3-6 months
Some women may experience mood swings, acne, headaches or breast tenderness |
| Emergency Contraception | No |
Prior to your procedure:
- Review the information above and come prepared with your questions before your appointment
- No unprotected intercourse for a minimum of two weeks prior to your insertion appointment
- Come prepared to your appointment to provide a urine sample (we always want to rule out pregnancy prior to your insertion)
- Take 600-800mg of ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) one hour prior to the appointment if you are able to tolerate for pain control
- You are welcome to bring a support person to join you during your appointment if needed
- Please watch the following video, which describes what occurs during your procedure.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RJVTBFxKAM&ab_channel=MSIReproductiveChoices
The procedure takes place in the office and takes approximately 20 minutes. The actual insertion itself only takes a few minutes.
After your procedure:
- You may experience irregular bleeding for up to 3-6 months
- You may use ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) 600-800mg every 6-8 hours as needed to manage any pain or tenderness at the insertion site
- You are encouraged to use back-up contraception (e.g. condoms, abstinence) for 7 days after the insertion of your implant
- Book your 6-week check-up appointment to review your implant
IUD/Contraceptive Implant FAQs
Do I need a referral to be seen?
A referral is strongly encouraged from your family physician or a walk-in clinic so that a note of your visit can be sent to the referring provider.
What is your cancellation policy?
We fully understand that life may get in the way and you may need to reschedule your appointment. We kindly ask that you provide our office with a minimum of 24 hours (business) notice if you need to cancel your appointment so that our staff can kindly reschedule you as soon as possible. Patients providing less than 24 hours notice or those who fail to show up to their appointment will be charged $50-$100 depending on the nature of the visit.
What happens at my 6-week IUD check-up appointment?
This appointment allows us to check-in with you to see how you are coping with your device. A pelvic examination will be performed to confirm placement of the IUD. A pelvic examination will not be required if you have an implant in place.
Patients are strongly encouraged to book an appointment to explore the various options available to them prior to booking their IUD insertion appointment. We are happy to see patients for an insertion and consultation and these appointments are generally best for patients coming in for a replacement of their device rather than first time IUD/implant users.
Reproductive Health and Family Planning
Contraceptive Care
We provide women with advice and support that allows them to make the right decision as it relates to family planning and their reproductive health. We offer services for the following regarding reproductive health:
- Contraceptive Care
- Family Planning/Preconception Care
- Pregnancy tests
- Counselling and support regarding pregnancy decision-making
- Early pregnancy loss/miscarriage
- Referrals to appropriate providers
The clinic provides education and counselling for other forms of contraception including:
- Birth control pills
- Evra Patch
- Depo-Provera injection
- NuvaRing®
Emergency contraception
Emergency contraception is contraception that is used to reduce the risk of an unintended pregnancy. This may be the result of contraceptive failure such as missing a dose of your medication, failed condom use, sexual assault or unintended pregnancy after vaginal intercourse. Various options available include:
Copper or Mirena® IUD
These are the most effective form of emergency contraception and are 99% effective in preventing unintended pregnancy. It can be inserted up to 7 days after unwanted sexual intercourse. Another great benefit of the IUD is that it can also provide long acting reversible contraception.
* Copper IUDs are available on site at the The Winnipeg Women’s Health & Contraception Clinic purchase. You will need a prescription for the Mirena®.
Ella® (ulipristal acetate)
Roughly 65% effective when taken within five days of unprotected intercourse. It is more effective than the progesterone only containing pill (i.e. Plan B), and doesn’t seem to be affected by the women’s body size.
Plan B®
A pill that contains progesterone and is roughly 50% effective and most effective when taken within 24 hours of unprotected intercourse. It’s efficacy declines the later it is taken, but it can be taken up to five days after unprotected intercourse. If you weigh more than 165 lbs. or have a BMI > than 25, it is advised that you speak to your physician as the medication may not be as effective.
Infertility
Family planning is an important aspect of reproductive care when couples have the opportunity to prepare for starting their families. We know that 16% (1 in 6) couples in Canada will struggle with infertility and it is important for couples to understand that we are here to help support them through this journey. We are happy to see and provide education, conduct appropriate investigations and referrals when appropriate, to heterosexual and same-sex couples who have a desire to start planning for pregnancy.
Infertility is defined as failure to conceive after a 12 month period of actively trying to conceive without the use of contraception for women under the age of 35 and six months for women over the age of 35. Women over the age of 40 trying to conceive should speak to their doctor if they are not pregnant after 3 months of unprotected intercourse.
Causes of infertility may be related to female factors (e.g. age, tubal factors or uterine factors), male factors (e.g. poor sperm quality, low sperm count), combination of both, or unexplained. A common misconception is that infertility is solely the result of a female related factor. It is important both you and your partner undergo appropriate assessments and investigations (eg. bloodwork, imaging) during this time to rule out any potential causes. It is important to know that sometimes there is no specific cause of infertility found.
Prior to conceiving, women are strongly encouraged to do the following:
- Start folic acid 0.4mcg daily (taking a standard prenatal vitamin will also suffice)
- Avoid smoking, alcohol and recreational substances
- Try to embark on a balanced diet and exercise routine
- Ensure your pap is up to date
- Arrange for a dental check up
Once pregnant, you will be assessed and sent for a variety of bloodwork and imaging. Prenatal genetic testing will also be offered as a part of your prenatal care.
Helpful links:
Menopause
Menopause is a natural transition every woman will go through and is marked after 12 consecutive months without a period. The average age of menopause is 51.5 years old and marks the end of menstruation and fertility. Many women report symptoms of hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, vaginal symptoms (dryness, itching), sexual discomfort, and urinary incontinence. Changes in cognition and irregular bleeding may also be experienced. 80% of women will make this transition smoothly with symptoms that do not have much impact on their quality of life. Approximately 20% of women will experience more severe symptoms that begin to affect their relationships or work, and menopause may have an impact on their quality of life. Some of these symptoms may begin two to eight years prior to the final menstrual period, which is defined by a decline in hormonal factors, especially estrogen.
Dr. Famuyide is a Certified Menopause Practitioner (NCMP) through the North American Menopause Society. Her goal is to provide comprehensive management of health issues related to menopause.
Services offered as they relate to women going through peri/menopause include:
- Assessment, management of perimenopausal symptoms
- Assessment, management of postmenopausal symptoms
- Vaginal Health
- Contraception in perimenopause phase
Dr. Famuyide does not custom compounded prescribe bioidentical hormones.
Sexual Health/Cervical Cancer Screening
We also offer services for sexual health including testing for:
- Testing and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- HPV vaccine counselling
- We also offer counselling and education for the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine, including adults who are not eligible for the vaccine through Manitoba Health
- The HPV vaccine is routinely offered to males and females in Grade 6
Pap Tests
- This program is available to any female seeking to have a pap test.
- A pap test is a test used to check for the presence of any abnormal cells that may be present on your cervix. We are able to prevent the majority of cervical cancer cases by having women screened regularly.
- The pap test is currently available to all women with a history of any sexual activity who are between the ages of 21 to 69 in Manitoba. It is performed every three years in average-risk women, or sooner if you have a history abnormal result that requires follow-up.
- Any female who has engaged in sexual activity, which is defined as any form of vaginal intercourse, vaginal/oral or vaginal/digital intercourse is eligible for a pap test.
- This test is encouraged for every woman irrespective of whom they have intercourse with, this includes transgender and non-binary patients with a cervix.
- If you are unsure of if you are eligible for a pap test, it is best to speak to your health care provider.
Helpful links:
Breast Cancer Screening
During this exam, the doctor checks for any abnormal tissue or changes in the breast. This helps to detect and address conditions such as breast cancer early. All women are encouraged to start having screening mammograms starting at age 50 until age 74 every two years. A mammogram is a breast X-ray used to detect early breast cancers and is still the best way to screen for breast cancer.
For those with a family history of breast or other related cancers, which may warrant early screening, it is best to book an appointment to discuss if you are eligible for early screening.
All women including transgender men and women may require a mammogram.
Helpful links:
To Book an Appointment
To book an appointment at The Winnipeg Women’s Health & Contraception Clinic, give us a call at 204-958-6777.
Referrals can be faxed to: 204-958-6730
Address:
633 Lodge Avenue (East Station)
Winnipeg, MB R3J 0S9