Is It Time To Change Birth Control?

If you are on birth control to prevent pregnancy, you may have been on the same birth control method for some time. Whether it works for you currently or not, you should still bring up alternative options with your gynecologist to see what is available to you.

Are you ready to change birth control, or are other options better for you? If you have any concerns about the current birth control you're taking, talk to your gynecologist; writing down your concerns to address with them at your next appointment will help you stay on track.

You keep forgetting to take your pills

If you are on birth control pills, you know you have to take them regularly and at the same time daily to make them most effective for preventing pregnancy. If you have a hard time remembering to take your pills, then there are other options like implants that go in the arm or inserted into the uterus. These options don't require you to take regular pills and can be more beneficial to your lifestyle.

You have side effects

Birth control is a hormone, so you can expect some side effects in taking the pregnancy-prevention drug. Some side effects may happen, such as weight gain, changes in your mood, period changes, or headaches. If you don't like the way you feel on your current birth control method, it's time to talk to your gynecologist.

You can't afford what you're on

There may be a cheaper or generic form of birth control available to you if you have to pay for your birth control yourself or find yourself unable to afford the current brand or method you are taking. Getting birth control that you don't have to take regularly, such as a copper IUD, can cost more initially upfront, but will save you money over time by not having to make a monthly investment.

You may want to become pregnant

Finally, if you're thinking of getting pregnant in the near future, you may want to change birth control methods or stop birth control altogether so you can put your body back into reproductive regulation. Since some birth control types take a while to get out of your system, such as the birth control shots, you'll want to taper off by changing to a pill or other form of birth control as suggested by your gynecologist. Your gynecologist will help you select the best birth control for your needs.

For more information, reach out to your gynecologist.

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