Ask Dr. Z!

Board-certified as an OB/GYN with a fellowship in contraceptive research and education, I aim to help people make informed decisions about their health.

I’ve co-authored sixteen editions of Managing Contraception* with over one million copies in circulation. I’m here to answer your questions about birth control.

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Questions and Answers

What’s the scoop with Phexxi?

Question: I am a Nurse Practitioner at Student Health. One of our physicians sent an article about Phexxi, a contraceptive option to use in conjunction with condoms if a patient did not want to use any standard birth control options. What are your thoughts about this?...

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Hair Loss with Nexplanon

Question: “I have a patient that is complaining of hair loss after having Nexplanon placed. Is that common and if so, is there any treatment for it?” Answer: Dear Doctor H., Hair growth / loss is affected by hormones, especially progestins, so it may be a...

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Postmenopausal Bleeding

Question: "I am 45 years old recently menopausal based on no periods for 18 months and confirmation by labs. I recently was having pelvic pressure and went to my ob/gyn. He ordered a transvaginal ultrasound that showed thickened endometrium (15) which he said needed...

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Vaginal Odor?

Question: I honestly think my vagina smells horrible all the time and I don't know if its in my head....... how do i go about fixing this? – Anonymous, 22 Answer: Dear Anonymous: The most common reason for odor is a condition called bacterial vaginosis (BV)...

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Lost Birth Control Pill?

Question: I lost one of my birth control pills so I took the next days in the pack. Is that okay? What should I do if this happens. I don't want to get pregnant. – Anonymous Mouse Answer: Dear Anonymous Mouse, Yes—you can just continue with the other...

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Yeast Cream and Vaginal Ring

Question: When my doctor gave me the vaginal ring for birth control, she said something about not using yeast cream. I think I have a yeast infection. Is it okay to buy a yeast cream? – Anne Answer: Dear Anne: You remembered correctly! There are two types of...

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