Signs You Should Consider a New Form of Birth Control

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.