Dr. MacGregor and her team are passionate about providing access to patient centered contraceptive and reproductive health care.
Inserting intrauterine devices (IUD) and contraceptive implants (Nexplanon) and/or counseling patients about another contraceptive, including fertility awareness options. Patients are provided with a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere to create a positive experience. These services are available by referral.
To access, please:
To obtain a referral, visit your doctor, nurse practitioner, midwife, audiologist, chiropractor, podiatrist, dentist, optometrist, or physical therapist.
Have your provider review and complete the Reproductive Health Referral Package. It must be faxed to our office.
Once your referral is received, you will be contacted by secure email messaging (Medeo) and text message with booking instructions.
Please note that while our team is committed to facilitating a gender-affirming and inclusive experience, not all of the following resources are written in a gender-inclusive manner.
Fertility Awareness
Fertility tracking is a method used by individuals to understand their reproductive cycle and identify periods when they are fertile and infertile. By tracking various biomarkers such as basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and menstrual cycles, individuals can predict ovulation and determine the most fertile times for conception or, conversely, when to avoid unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy.
Fertility awareness empowers individuals with knowledge about their bodies and offers a natural, non-invasive approach to family planning that can be used both to achieve and avoid pregnancy. It requires diligence and consistency but provides a holistic understanding of reproductive health and can serve as a valuable tool for those seeking a deeper connection with their fertility. Visit here for a podcast featuring Dr. Natalie Crawford, MD, discussing this method.
This can be a helpful tool for a person hoping to prevent or obtain pregnancy. For more information, consider Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler.
What contraceptive Option is right for you?
What Contraception is Right for You? - Society of Obstetricians & Gynecologists of Canada
Intra Uterine Devices (IUD)
What is an IUD? - Planned Parenthood
IUD Fact Sheet - Options for Sexual Health BC
Everything You Need to Know about IUDs - Ariana Tobin
What to Expect During an IUD Insertion - Dawn Stacey PhD
Pain Management Options foR IUD Insertions
Review your pain management options here, including using the “green whistle,” similar to the nitrous oxide reference in the video above but more straightforward to administer. Your provider can discuss which is right for you at your pre-insertion visit.
Contraceptive Implants?
What is an Implant? - Planned Parenthood
Sexual Health Resources
Sex & U - Society of Obstetricians & Gynecologists of Canada
Please note that as of 2024, the Mirena IUD is now indicated for 8 years of use, compared to its previous 5-year indication. Some of the above resources will not include this update.
Pain Management Options for IUD Insertions
Oral Analgesics
Oral analgesics, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, naproxen, and a few others, can be utilized to manage pain associated with IUD insertion and removal. These medications are effective in reducing general discomfort and inflammation.
Taking an oral analgesic about an hour before the procedure can help minimize cramping and pain during and after the insertion or removal.
Cervical Block (Freezing with Lidocaine)
A cervical block involves injecting a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, directly into the cervix. This method effectively numbs the cervix and can significantly reduce pain during the IUD insertion or removal.
Benzocaine Spray on the Cervix
For those who prefer a non-invasive option, Benzocaine spray can be applied directly to the cervix. This topical anesthetic provides a temporary numbing effect, easing discomfort during the procedure.
While it is less invasive than an injection, it may not offer the same depth of numbness as the cervical block, but it is an excellent option for those with needle anxiety.
Inhaled Anesthetic Gas (Penthrox)
Methoxyflurane, an inhaled anesthetic, offers a quick and effective way to manage both pain and anxiety during IUD procedures. This gas is administered through a hand-held, single-use inhaler, allowing patients to self-administer and control their dosage.
Methoxyflurane works rapidly to relieve pain while also providing a calming effect, which can make the procedure more tolerable.
Oral Benzodiazepine (Ativan)
Oral Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine that can be taken prior to the procedure to alleviate anxiety. While it does not directly relieve pain, reducing anxiety can help patients manage discomfort better. Ativan is particularly useful for patients who experience significant nervousness about the procedure.