There is a birth control option that will work for everyone, but that doesn’t
mean every kind of birth control is right for every person. Are you and
your current birth control a bad match? Here are some of the signs that
you should talk to your
gynecologist about different birth control methods to see if one is better suited to
your needs.
You can’t remember to take it.
If you take a birth control pill, how diligent you are about taking it
determines how well it protects you from pregnancy. If you routinely forget
to take your pill, then you either need to use a backup method or you
risk an unwanted pregnancy. Even forgetting one pill can put you at high
risk of an unplanned pregnancy, so talk to your gynecologist about birth
control methods you don’t have to take daily, such as an IUD, patch, or ring.
You have lost your sex drive.
Birth control pills prevent ovulation, and in doing so, they prevent your
ovaries from releasing the same amount of testosterone that they normally
do. For some women, that means a dramatic reduction in libido that can
be distressing and put pressure on personal relationships. If this happens
to you, your gynecologist may recommend another birth control method,
such as a non-hormonal copper IUD or birth control pills with higher levels
of progesterone, which can have a similar effect to testosterone.
You have breakthrough bleeding.
Breakthrough bleeding is a common side effect of birth control pills, but
it usually stops when your body adjusts to the hormones. However, for
some women, it persists indefinitely and can become problematic. Your
gynecologist may recommend switching to a pill with a higher dose of hormones.
If you are experiencing chronic breakthrough bleeding on a longer cycle
pill on which are you only supposed to have a few periods per year, your
doctor may recommend switching to a shorter cycle option.
If your birth control is causing uncomfortable symptoms, see a gynecologist
in Washington, D.C., at Washington Surgi-Clinic to explore your options.
We also provide confidential STD testing,
pregnancy termination, and other women’s health services. Dial (202) 659-9403 for an appointment.