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Our Offices
101 Old Short Hills Rd
Atkins-Kent Building, Suite 101
W. Orange, NJ 07052
973-736-1100

33 Overlook Rd.
MAC Building
Suite 108
Summit, NJ 07901
908-522-4558

340 Main Street
Madison, NJ 07940

731 Broadway
Bayonne, NJ 07002
201-339-3300

67 Walnut Avenue, Suite 101
Clark, NJ 07066
732-396-1881

Physicians
Robert J. Rubino,
MD, FACOG
 
Audrey A. Romero, MD, FACOG
 
Lisa Abeshaus,
MD, FACOG
  
Jacqueline Saitta, MD, FACOG

Allan D. Kessel,
MD , FACOG
  
Priya R. Patel,
MD, FACOG, MPH

Dana Ortiz, MD

Anne-Marie Tang, MD 

Jennifer Fitzgibbons, APN

Dr. Rubino is nationally recognized for his expertise on Her OptionĀ®

 Cryoablation,

15-minute,

in-office procedure.

Click here to find out more.

 EssureĀ® is a simple, non-invasive,
10-minute office procedure for permanent birth control (tubal ligation).  Click here
 to see if Essure is
 right for you.
Find out more about our Pelvic Floor Therapy Program for incontinence and painful intercourse.
Access our Patient Portal 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Medical FactMedicalFact
 "I didn't know that!

The history of intrauterine devices dates back to  nomadic traders  - it was said when they needed to keep a female camel from getting pregnant during long treks across the desert, they put stones into the animal's uterus. 
The ancient Greek father of medicine, Hippocrates,  is credited  with first suggesting small objects in the human uterus to prevent pregnancy. 
It wasn't until the 
early 1900s when, unlike IUDs, early inter-uterine devices crossed both the vagina and the uterus, causing a high rate of pelvic inflammatory disease in a time period when gonorrhea was more common. The first IUD was developed in 1909 by the German physician Richard Richter, of Waldenburg. His device was made of silkworm gut and was not widely used.
September
2018
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We hope everyone had a wonderful Labor Day weekend and an easy transition to back to school. We wish all those that celebrate a happy Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur this month. As the weather becomes cooler and new Fall activities come into play, we wish you all the enjoyment of the change of the season. 

In this month's newsletter, we discuss long-acting reversible contraception and the available options.  In addition, we share information on the term "natural" and what it means with health care products In our Healthy Living  section, we celebrate the concept of self care and the many benefits to you and your family. We also invite you to a Lunch & Learn at Whole Foods, hosted by our own Jennifer Fitzgibbons, APN. Finally ,  you'll find a new interesting Medical Fact.

We are building our online community. Have you  joined us?

If there is topic you would like covered in our newsletter, please e-mail us at newsletter@rubinoobgyn.com .
 
As always, we will continue to provide topics that are current, informative and important to your good health.  

Sincerely,
The Rubino OB/GYN Group
Long-Acting Reversible Contraception contra
The intrauterine device (IUD) and the birth control implant are wallpaper.jpg long-acting reversible contraception methods. Both are highly effective in preventing pregnancy. They last for several years and are easy to use. Both methods are reversible-if you want to get pregnant or if you want to stop using them, you can have them removed at any time.

How effective are long-acting reversible contraception methods?
The IUD and the implant are the most effective forms of reversible birth control available. During the first year of use, fewer than 1 in 100 women using an IUD or implant will get pregnant. Over time, LARC methods are 20 times more effective than birth control pills, the patch, or the ring. Although very effective, LARCs  do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). A male or female condom also should be used to provide STI protection if you are at risk of getting an STI. 

What is the intrauterine device?
The IUD is a small, T-shaped, plastic device that is inserted into and left inside the uterus. There are two types of IUDs:
  1. The hormonal IUD releases the hormone progestin into the uterus. Common brands of hormone IUDs are Mirena, Skyla and Liletta. Depending on the brand, they are approved for up to 3-5 years.
  2. The copper IUD releases copper into the uterus and does not contain hormones. The most popular brand is ParaGard. It is approved for up to 10 years of use.
How does the intrauterine device work?
The IUD works mainly by preventing fertilization of an egg by sperm. The progestin in the hormonal IUD thickens mucus found in the cervix. Thicker mucus makes it harder for sperm to enter the uterus and reach an egg. Progestin also thins the lining of the uterus.

The copper in the copper IUD interferes with sperm's ability to move. When sperm stop acting normally, it is harder for them to enter the uterus and reach an egg.

What are the benefits of the intrauterine device?
Benefits include:
  • Ease of use - once it is in place, you do not have to do anything else to prevent pregnancy
  • Discrepancy - there is no indication of using birth control
  • No interference with sex or daily activities and you can use a tampon
  • The ability to insert it immediately after an abortion, a miscarriage, or childbirth. It can also be used while breastfeeding
  • Ability for almost all women to use it - there are few medical problems that prevent its use
  • Easy removal if you decide you want to get pregnant; it does not affect the ability to get pregnant in the future
  • Decreasing menstrual pain and heavy menstrual bleeding
  • The copper IUD also is the most effective form of emergency contraception.
How is the intrauterine device placed?
An ob-gyn reviews your medical history and performs a pelvic exam. The IUD will be guided through the vagina and the cervix and then into the uterus.  Placement of the IUD may cause some temporary discomfort. Taking over-the-counter pain relief medication such as ibuprofen before or after placement may help.

The IUD has strings made of thin plastic threads that should not bother you or be noticeable. In rare cases your sexual partner may feel them during sex. 

How is the intrauterine device removed?
When you are ready to stop using the IUD, your ob-gyn will remove it during a pelvic exam by grasping the strings with an instrument and gently pulling out the IUD. Removal of an IUD usually takes less time than IUD placement.

What are possible side effects of using an IUD?
When a woman uses an IUD, changes in menstrual bleeding are normal and not harmful. With the copper IUD, painful periods and bleeding may increase during the first months of use. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be used for pain and bleeding.

Hormonal IUDs may cause frequent spotting, more days of bleeding, and heavier bleeding in the first months of use. Over time, the amount of menstrual bleeding, length of your menstrual period and pain usually decreases. For some women using a hormonal IUD, menstrual bleeding stops completely. Some women also may experience other side effects, including headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, and mood changes.

What are possible risks of using the intrauterine device?
Serious complications from IUDs are rare. However, some women do have problems, typically during or soon after insertion including the IUD coming out, going  through the wall of the uterus during placement (this is very rare), p elvic inflammatory disease (PID), also very rare.There is a 1% chance to get pregnant while using an IUD - in  the rare case that a pregnancy occurs with the IUD in place, there is a higher chance that it will be an ectopic pregnancy which requires medical attention. 

What is the birth control implant?
The birth control implant is a flexible, plastic rod about the size of a matchstick that is inserted just under the skin in the upper arm. It releases progestin into the body. The implant is approved for up to 3 years of use.

How does the birth control implant work?
The progestin in the implant prevents pregnancy mainly by stopping ovulation. The progestin in the implant also thickens the mucus of the cervix, which makes it harder for sperm to enter the uterus and reach the egg. Progestin also thins the lining of the uterus. Benefits of an implant are similar to an IUD including ease of use, no evidence of birth control, immediate insertion, reducing menstrual pain and the ability to discontinue use at any time. 

How is the birth control implant inserted?
An ob-gyn will insert the implant into your arm. He or she will numb a small area on the inside of your upper arm with a local pain medicine. The implant is placed under the skin with a special inserter. The procedure takes only a few minutes.

How is the birth control implant removed?
When you are ready to stop using the implant, an ob-gyn must remove it. A small area on your upper arm is numbed with a local anesthetic. One small incision is made. The implant is removed through the small incision. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes.

What are possible side effects of using the birth control implant?
Like IUDs, the implant can cause changes in menstrual bleeding. The most common change is unpredictable bleeding. Menstrual periods may be less frequent and may stop completely. But in some women, periods are more frequent and last longer. Other side effects may include digestive difficulties, headaches, breast pain, weight gain, and acne.

There are minimal risks with an implant including a  slightly increased risk of ectopic pregnancy if you were to get pregnant. The implant should be removed if pregnancy occurs.
 
Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
What Does "Natural" Mean?natural
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When purchasing baby products for your child, you do so hoping what you choose is effective, and safe. When shopping for baby care products, many parents will look for products labeled as "natural," interpreting them to contain nontoxic, safe ingredients that do not have any harmful side effects or could cause damage to their child. 

It is typical to read a label that says "natural" and automatically trust that the product is safe to use on your baby or child. 

How, as a parent, are you to know whether the products you are buying to care for your baby are actually natural? And what exactly does "natural" mean?

Reading labels on all products is necessary to understand what you put into your body and on your skin. 

In recognition of Baby Safety Month, we highlight details of an article from Parents.com that discusses the term "natural" and its meaning:

According to Ga len Roth, Stabile Law Fellow at the  Enviornmental Working Group  (EWG), it's difficult for the Food and Drug Administration, which oversees personal care products, to regulate companies' claims about being natural. "Claims that products are 'all' or '100% natural' when they in fact contain synthetic ingredients are easier to identify as misleading than claims that products are 'natural,' because according to the agency it's less clear what exactly consumers expect from a 'natural' product. In fact, the FDA has not yet defined the term natural for cosmetics and other personal care products."

"In 2016, the Federal Trade Commission, which has authority over the marketing of personal care products, took action against some companies claiming that their personal care products were not 'all natural' or '100% natural,'" Roth told us. "The FTC said that companies should not call personal care products 'all natural' or '100% natural' if they cannot substantiate the claims with reliable evidence. However, the FTC has not taken any action on claims that personal care products are merely 'natural.'"

He further cautions: "Parents should understand that 'natural' has no legal definition. Personal care products may use terms like 'natural' on their labels and in their marketing when they in fact contain synthetic ingredients." Roth continues, "'Natural' does not necessarily mean 'safe.' For example, 'natural' claims don't guarantee that a personal care product is free of ingredients linked to allergies or other negative health effects. In addition to 'natural,' other claims on the front of labels that go unregulated include 'gentle' and 'hypoallergenic.'"

And unfortunately, as Roth explains, "Companies don't have to pass any tests to label their personal care products 'natural,' even when the products are intended for babies or children, [because the FDA] has very limited resources and authority to regulate their safety." That even goes for everyday  baby products like wipes, believe it not.

He recommends reading product labels, and also using Environmental Working Group's, (EWG's)  Skin Deep database  to research specific products and ingredients. EWG also has an app that allows you to scan products from your phone. There are products out there that are working hard to ensure they are safe and effective. Nature's Nurture also created a list of safe baby products as a guide for parents.

Reading the labels of all products for you and your family will help you better understand and avoid any harmful ingredients. 

Source: Parents.com
Healthy Living: More Than A LuxuryHL
When you think of going for a massage, do you immediately interpret it shoulder_massage_female.jpg as a luxury, or an indulgence? As a gender, women often dedicate most of their time taking care of others, and not enough taking time themselves. And when we do, it is often guilt-ridden. 

Rejuvenating your body is actually essential - especially when trying to optimize health and stress release. In fact, ma ny cultures require family members to massage themselves daily to ensure their bodies function optimally. M assage has been a healing technique since ancient civilizations. It's a matter of changing our mindset from considering it a luxury to considering it a necessity.

What does massage do for you?
Massage is the manipulation of layers of muscle and connective tissue using various techniques. It enhances muscle function, aids in healing, decreases muscle reflex activity and promotes relaxation and well-being. Specifically it can help:
  • Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion
  • Enhance immunity by activating the body's natural defense system
  • Exercise and stretch weak, tight or atrophied muscles
  • Improve circulation by pumping oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs
  • Help athletes prepare for or recover from strenuous activity.
  • Increase joint flexibility
  • Lessen depression, anxiety, stress and tension.
  • Improve sleep
  • Relieve pain and migraines by releasing endorphins - the body's natural painkiller
  • Promote tissue regeneration to reduce scar tissue and stretch marks
  • Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers
Massage can be beneficial to people of all ages, from infant to elderly.In fact, m yofascial release massage, an alternative medicine therapy, is now being used to treat skeletal muscle immobility and pain by relaxing contracted muscles, improving blood and lymphatic circulation, and stimulating the stretch reflex in muscles.There is even new evidence that myofascial release massage can benefit sports related injuries, including concussions.

So why not make a promise to yourself to practice self-care at least once a month and schedule a massage? The benefits will extend far beyond the hour treatment - the release of stress, pain and tension will help improve your disposition, hence your relationships with others and your family. The gift that continues to give.

Source: HeelsToLaces.com
Whole Foods Lunch & LearnWF
The Rubino OB/GYN Group will be participating in a Lunch & Learn talk at
Whole Foo ds in Madison on 
Wednesday, September 20 at 11:30AM.  

The focus of the discussion will be: Strengthening Your Pelvic Floor. Beyond the Kegel! The discussion will include strategies for women to help strengthen the pelvic floor, advances in diagnosis and treatment of disorders related to pelvic floor dysfunction, and an overview of The Rubino Group's expertise in urogynecology. 

The Rubino OB/GYN Group will be represented by Jennifer FitzGibbons, APN,C. Ms. FitzGibbons has worked in the field of women's health and preventative medicine since 1982, bringing a patient-centered approach to The Rubino OB/GYN Group. She  graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master Degree in Nursing from Yale University.

Jennifer works in partnership with each patient to create an individualized health plan focused on personal wellness goals and objectives. As a nurse practitioner, Jennifer is a part of a team of physicians that facilitate obstetric and gynecological exams and evaluations. 

Please join us!
It Only Takes A Second!FB
We are building our Rubino OB/GYN Group Facebook community - we need you! 

Simply click on the icon below and "Like" our page. It's a simple way to ensure you are informed of important office announcements, office closings, relevant news topics, breaking news, patient updates and so much more.
Our goal is to have 100% participation from our patients

Easy Access To Lab Reports labreports
You can find access to your lab reports right from our website :   The Rubino OB/GYN Group  

Our patient portal provides patients direct access to their records at The Rubino OB/GYN Group only and allows you to access your health history, update your profile page, request a prescription, submit a clinical question and access upcoming appointments. If you have not already received a username and password, please request one from our office.
Pay Your Bill Onlinepayonlinebills

You can pay your Rubino OB/GYN Group bill online right from the checkbook-pen.jpghomepage of our website. Simply click on the button at the top of the page that says "New! Pay Your Bill Online!".

Options include paying by credit card or  echeck. It is an easy one-time registration to create a password.

 

For easy reference, the direct link is: Pay My Bill

Office Announcements  announcements
Now Taking Mammogram Appointments
The Rubino OB/GYN Group is now taking appointments for on-site mammograms. Call the office today: 973-736-1100

New Early & Evening Appointments
Our new nurse practitioner, Jennifer Fitzgibbons, is now offering early morning and evening hours in Clark and Madison. 
Monday: Madison 11:00 am to 7:00 pm
Tuesday:  Clark 7:30 am to 3:30 pm
Wednesday: Clark 7:30 am to 3:30 pm
Thursday: Clark 11 am to 7 pm
Friday:  Madison 7:30 to 3:30 pm

Please call our main number 973-736-1100 to schedule. 

Emmi Video Tutorials
Emmi is a free, online video tutorial that makes complex medical information simple and easy to understand. Emmi provides clear and concise step-by-step information on common health topics and procedures right on our website. Click here to find out more.

"Important Announcements" on Our Website
You can find important new developments and time-sensitive announcements (such as office closings) right on the upper right hand portion of our  home page .
   
Enterprising Patients
If you would like to add your business or service to the website, 
please e-mail us at network@rubinoobgyn.com.
 
Products Available on Our Website
For more information visit the products page on our website.