Wednesday, March 27, saw the start of recovery operations in Maryland as searchers continued to look for the six people who were thought to have died following the terrible fall of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge.
A 985-foot-long tanker collided with the bridge early on Tuesday, sending parts of it tumbling into the Patapsco River. Six construction workers from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador were listed as missing, according to CNN.
The US Coast Guard, however, has now said that it will halt its extensive search and rescue operation after coming to the conclusion that the men have passed away.
Miguel Luna, 49, a husband and father of three who was born in El Salvador and has lived in Maryland for almost 20 years, was one of the people identified. When the bridge collapsed, Luna was among the workers assigned to fix its potholes, as the BBC reported.
While ongoing recovery attempts continued, Miguel Luna’s wife, María del Carmen Castellón, voiced her sadness and the family eagerly awaited news.
They merely advise us to wait and that they are unable to provide us any information at this time. We are inconsolable because we don’t know if they have already saved them and our hearts are torn. In an interview with Telemundo 44, Maria bemoaned, “We’re just waiting to hear any news.”
Among the workers who went missing was Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 38, who was also identified as a victim. Maynor, a married father of an 18-year-old son and a 5-year-old daughter, was originally from Honduras. His brother Martin Suazo stated that he had lived in the United States for almost eighteen years.
The fall occurred early on Tuesday morning while the six workers—including Maynor—were working on fixing potholes on the bridge. They worked for a nearby firm called Brawner Builders, which maintains bridges in Maryland.
Senior executive Jeffrey Pritzker of Brawner Builders emphasized the company’s dedication to safety while expressing deep dismay at the incident’s unexpected nature.
Jeffrey said, “This was so completely unforeseen.” “We’re at a loss for words. We have cones, signs, lighting, barriers, and flaggers because we take such great interest in maintaining safety. However, we never anticipated that the bridge would fall.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who are missing and thought to be deceased.
Only those with experience would know what this is.
When it comes to contraception, many people are familiar with pills, IUDs, and condoms. But there’s one method that often goes unnoticed unless you’ve personally used it or know someone who has—the birth control stick. If you’ve ever seen one and wondered what it is, you’re not alone. Let’s dive deep into this discreet yet highly effective form of birth control.
What Is the Birth Control Stick?
The birth control stick, also known as the contraceptive implant, is a small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of a woman’s upper arm. This tiny device releases hormones to prevent pregnancy for several years, making it one of the most convenient long-term birth control options available.
Unlike birth control pills that require daily intake or patches that need to be changed weekly, the implant offers a hassle-free solution. It’s a “set it and forget it” kind of birth control—ideal for those who don’t want to worry about contraception on a daily basis.
How Does It Work?
The implant slowly releases a hormone called progestin into the bloodstream. This hormone primarily works in three ways to prevent pregnancy:
- Stopping Ovulation – If an egg isn’t released from the ovaries, sperm has nothing to fertilize.
- Thickening Cervical Mucus – This makes it difficult for sperm to swim through the cervix and reach an egg.
- Thinning the Uterine Lining – Even if an egg were to be fertilized, a thinner uterine lining makes implantation highly unlikely.
Because it operates on multiple levels, the birth control stick is one of the most effective contraceptive methods available, with a success rate of over 99%.
The Process of Getting It Inserted
Many people feel uneasy about the idea of having something placed under their skin, but the insertion process is quick and relatively painless. Here’s what to expect:
- A healthcare provider numbs a small area on your upper arm.
- A tiny incision is made, and the flexible rod is inserted just under the skin.
- The entire process takes just a few minutes and requires no stitches—just a small bandage.
Most people experience little to no discomfort after the procedure, and the implant starts working almost immediately if inserted at the right time in the menstrual cycle.
Who Should Consider the Birth Control Stick?
This form of birth control is ideal for those who:
- Want long-term protection against pregnancy without daily maintenance
- Cannot use estrogen-based contraception (like some birth control pills)
- Prefer a highly effective, reversible option
- Have busy lifestyles and don’t want to worry about forgetting to take a pill
However, it’s not for everyone. Some women may experience side effects, such as irregular bleeding, headaches, or changes in mood. It’s important to discuss with a healthcare provider whether this method is right for you.
Common Misconceptions About the Birth Control Stick
Because the implant isn’t as well-known as other birth control methods, several myths surround its use. Let’s debunk some of the most common ones:
- “It’s painful to get inserted.”
The insertion process is quick, and most people only feel a slight pinch when the numbing agent is applied. - “It can travel through your body.”
The implant stays in place under the skin. It does not move around your body or get lost. - “It makes you infertile.”
Fertility typically returns quickly after the implant is removed. Many women are able to conceive within a few months. - “It’s visible under the skin.”
While you may feel the implant if you press on the area, it is not visibly noticeable.
How Long Does It Last?
One of the biggest benefits of the birth control stick is its longevity. Depending on the brand, it can last anywhere from three to five years before needing replacement. If at any point you decide you want to conceive, it can be removed, and fertility usually returns within weeks or months.
The Removal Process
Just like insertion, removal is a straightforward procedure. A small incision is made in the same area, and the implant is gently taken out. Some women may experience a bit of bruising or tenderness, but recovery is usually quick.
Final Thoughts: Is the Birth Control Stick Right for You?
The birth control stick is a game-changer for many women who want a low-maintenance, highly effective contraceptive. If you’re tired of remembering to take a pill every day or dealing with other short-term birth control methods, this might be the perfect option.
Of course, every person’s body reacts differently to hormonal contraception, so it’s always best to consult a healthcare provider before making a decision. But if you’re looking for convenience, effectiveness, and long-term peace of mind, the birth control stick might just be the best-kept secret in contraception.
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