Birth control?

Question

I'm a college student who has been in a relationship with my boyfriend for half a year, and I've been using the pill as birth control. I've switched between different kinds, but apparently have a sensitivity to the hormones involved and have ended up gaining 30 pounds because of it. I risk becoming diabetic if my weight is even slightly in the overweight category because of my family history, so it seems the pill isn't an option for me. I am not open at all to getting pregnant at this point, but I don't want to end my sex life, either. What do you think I should do?

I'm worried condoms aren't enough to prevent pregnancy. Even if they're reliable and don't break, isn't the success rate somewhere in the 70's?

Answer 1

You could give Nuva Ring a try. The hormone levels are lower and because of the positioning (right where its needed near the uterus), less of the hormone enters the blood stream.

Progesterone-only pills might be an alternative also, but not everyone can tolerate them, and their dosing schedule is far more strict than a regular BCP.

Also, maybe look into a barrier method called Lea's Shield. Its supposed to be more effective than the diaphragm; used with spermicides and/or a condom, I would bet it's pretty safe. Also, if you're regular off the pill, you might combine barrier method usage with Fertility Awareness (where you don't have sex during your most likely ovulation days), and you would be even safer.

BTW, IUDs are NOT recommended for women who have not had at least one full-term pregnancy because the uterine muscle can often be too stiff (rigid) to tolerate a foreign object.

I would recommend talking to someone at Planned Parenthood or your college health center about your alternatives.

Answer 2

Condoms are an option and as long as you use them properly, they are very effective. The "typical" rate for condoms is around 84% but that is counting people who don't use condoms everytime, use them incorrectly, or claim they use them when they don't.

But if you use them correctly every time you have sex, they are very effective.

Have you tried the mini-pill or a low-dose pill? They have lower amounts of hormones and are more easily tolerated.

Some other options would be to go ahead and get fitted with an IUD. There are IUD's for five years or for 12 but you can get them taken out whenever you are ready to become pregnant. They offer very effective protection against pregnancy.

Another option would be to use a sponge or spermicide with a male condom. Alone these methods are not that effective but combined with another method they increase your ability to reduce your risk for pregnancy.

Talking with your doctor about your options would be the best route to go since they would know your medical history.
Best of luck!
Peace,
Jenn

Answer 3

I've heard that there are patches now for birth control and one month shots, too. IUDs ( I didn't like them though) might be an alternative too...I don't need either one, as I've had a hysterectomy, and I am widowed now and not sexually active anyway, so I am out of the loop. On the funny side, my husband used to tell me that the best birth control was to hold an aspirin between your knees!!!! HAHAHA LOL Sorry, couldn't resist.

Answer 4

To be honest, I like the patch; However, the patch (ortho evra) poses a few medical issues.

If you are a smoker then be aware of the risk (i am a smoker and have had no problems though)

If you have heart problems then it is not so good for you to do the patch.

Google it and make your own decision. You can be on BC or you can not be on BC. If you don't use a condom while not on BC then be prepared for a baby. Take Care.

Answer 5

Condoms if used correctly are up to 98% effective. If you use condoms as your birth control you have to put them on before you start every time.
To supplement condoms you can use a sponge or spermicide.
I've used condoms as my sole birth control method for almost 2 years and have not gotten pregnant.

Answer 6

There are many types of birth control that don't involve screwing around with your hormones. Some of them also offer protections against STI's.

Remember that the only person whose fidelity you can be certain of is you.

Answer 7

there are other forms of birth control besides bc pills-try the patch or condoms or a diaphragm or the shot, etc

Answer 8

Ever heard of condoms? Foam? Sponge?

Answer 9

There's more options besides the pill
Nuvo Ring
Depo Shot
IUD
Condoms...

Talk to your gynecologist for which option is best for you.

Answer 10

I use the IUD.