Need advise about Birth Control..... ( from GIRLS )

**Pinkgirl36** · 07-08-2002, 11:14 AM

Ok girlies, I need advise, as of right now I am on Ortho-Tri Cyclen, and I found out from my doctor that I am on the lowest doseage they give out or something like that....but they won't give me a higher dosage for some reason ( maybe my insurance...I dunno ) but anyways, I want to switch to something else, but I don't really have many choices considering I'm only 19 and have never had a kid ( and don't plan on it for a LONG time ) I was doing research and found a few things, I know there is a new type of birth control pill out, but I don't remember the name so I can't look up statistics on it. Also I was wondering if Norplant or Depo Vera would be ok for me to even consider taking.... even though they do seem a bit pricey for things ( but cheaper then having a kid!!!! ) I just really need advise on what would be the smart thing for me to take. Thanks.

**jujubees** · 07-08-2002, 11:38 PM

Why exactly do you want to up your dosage of Ortho Tri-Cyclen?

From my experience, doctors won't change/increase your dosage unless you have some break-through bleeding (BTB). Give your body 2-3 months to fully adjust to them, but if you're not experiencing any BTB, then the pill is doing its job. When I had BTB with Ortho, my doc just gave me another type of pill, also a low dose, but with a different composition (more of this hormone, less of that one, etc.).

Norplant is pretty much ineffective the day that it's removed, but the Depo can take up to a year to wear off. Just another thing to consider, should you plan on having kids anytime soon. Don't forget to ask about IUD's too.

All options are pretty reliable, but you know how it goes ... for every 100 success stories with a certain form of contraception, there's a terrible story to counter it.

Do you have medical insurance with your new job? If so, you should schedule a session with an ob-gyn to discuss the forms of birth control that are right for you. If the insurance is a no-go, Planned Parenthood is another option.

**~~DoPeY5007~~** · 07-10-2002, 11:22 AM

Originally posted by jujubees
Don't forget to ask about IUD's too.
.

as far as I know the woman has to have a child before an IUD can be used.... ( personaly I think the IUD is the way to go )

**Pinkgirl36** · 07-10-2002, 11:42 AM

Originally posted by DoPeY5007
as far as I know the woman has to have a child before an IUD can be used.... ( personaly I think the IUD is the way to go )

no one asked for your opinion

but I read that norplant is at times more effective then sterilization.....so i dunno....

**~~DoPeY5007~~** · 07-10-2002, 11:50 AM

Reversible Prescription Methods
The IUD (INTRAUTERINE DEVICE)

IUDs are reversible prescription methods of birth control. They are small devices made of plastic. One type contains copper, and two use a natural hormone. A clinician will suggest which is the right type for you. The ParaGard® (copper T 380A) can be left in place for 10 years. The Progestasert® must be replaced every year. Mirena® is effective for five years. Insertion and removal must be done by a clinician.

HOW IUDs WORK
IUDs usually work by preventing fertilization of an egg. They seem to do it by affecting the way the sperm or eggs move. They can also affect the lining of the uterus in ways that prevent implantation.

HOW WELL IUDs WORK
The IUD is one of the most effective reversible methods of birth control available to women. Of 100 women who use IUDs, two or fewer will become pregnant during the first year of typical use. Fewer than one will become pregnant with perfect or typical use of the ParaGard or the Mirena. Two or fewer will become pregnant with perfect or typical use of the Progestasert. Fewer pregnancies occur with continued use.

You can increase your protection by checking the IUD string regularly.

The IUD provides no protection against sexually transmitted infections. Latex or female condoms can reduce the risk of infection.

ADVANTAGES
With an IUD in place, a woman does not need to think about using her birth control method every day or every time she has vaginal intercourse. The IUD does not change the hormone levels throughout the body. Although the up-front cost of the copper IUD is high, the cost over the 10 years it can be used is very low compared to the costs of similarly effective methods.

WHO CAN USE IUDs
IUDs are the most popular form of reversible birth control in the world. More than 85 million women use them. An IUD may be just right for you if

you have only one sex partner who has sex only with you
you or your partner always use condoms for very low-risk safer sex with each other and with other partners
you have had a baby
You should not use the IUD if you are pregnant or you have

unprotected sex with more than one partner, or your partner does
unexplained abnormal vaginal bleeding
infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, or mucopurulent cervicitis
a recent history of pelvic infection
a history of ectopic pregnancy
a uterus that is too small for an IUD
a disease that decreases your ability to fight infection, such as leukemia or diabetes, or a condition that requires treatment with corticosteroid medications
an active bacterial infection called actinomycosis
septic abortion or post-abortion or postpartum endometritis in last three months
Copper IUDs should not be used if you are allergic to copper, have had Wilson’s disease, or if you are having diathermy (heat) treatments.

Do not have an IUD inserted if there is a chance that you are pregnant. Be sure to tell your clinician if you think there is any chance that you are. A special evaluation must be done if you have a history of heart disease or certain other chronic medical conditions.

HOW IUDs ARE USED
Insertion is often done during menstruation. It may be somewhat painful, like severe menstrual cramps. Sometimes it is only slightly uncomfortable. The cramping usually is brief and eases with a little rest and medication for pain relief. Antibiotics may be given to reduce the chance of infection when the IUD is inserted.

A string on the IUD hangs down through the cervix into the vagina. You should feel for the string now and then, especially after menstruation, to make sure the IUD is in place. If it is not, you should use another form of birth control and call your clinician for advice. You should have a checkup within three months after insertion. You should always have annual checkups.

Ask your clinician to remove your IUD if you want to become pregnant.

POSSIBLE PROBLEMS WHILE USING THE IUD
Most women adjust to their IUDs with few or no problems. But for some women

cramping may be greater (mostly for a brief time after insertion)
bleeding may occur between periods
periods may be heavier and last longer (less so with IUDs containing hormones)
There is a small chance that the IUD may fall out. You may not know it, and pregnancy could result. Pregnancy with an IUD in place is rare, but if symptoms of pregnancy occur, you should have a pelvic exam immediately. If you are pregnant, the IUD should be removed as soon as possible. Removal lessens the chance of serious infections during pregnancy that can be life threatening in rare cases. Removal also reduces chances of miscarriage or premature delivery. However, in some cases removal may not be possible, or the removal may trigger a miscarriage.

Some IUD users have had ectopic (tubal) pregnancies. But ectopic pregnancy occurs less frequently for IUD users than it does for women who use no method. However, in the rare case when an IUD fails, there is a greater chance that the pregnancy will be in a tube. Ectopic pregnancies are life threatening. They usually are eliminated medically or removed with surgery.

Infection of the fallopian tubes happens more often in IUD users than non-users. But the risk of infection is greater only for women who have more than one sex partner, or whose partner has other partners. Women who use IUDs must also use condoms if

they have more than one partner
they take a new partner
they change partners
their partner has more than one partner
Infection, with or without symptoms, may increase the risk of tubal pregnancy, cause sterility, or, very rarely, require removal of the uterus or ovaries. An untreated infection may require surgery or lead to infertility or ectopic pregnancy.

Rarely, the IUD may puncture the wall of the uterus. This usually is associated with insertion. In such cases, surgery may be required to remove the IUD.

WARNING SIGNS
Tell your clinician immediately if you are not able to feel the string, your partner feels the IUD during sex, or if you have

a missed, late, or light period
severe cramping or increasing pain in lower abdomen — especially if it’s only on one side
unexplained fever and/or chills
pain or bleeding during sex
changes in the smell and amount of vaginal discharge
HOW TO GET IUDs AND WHAT THEY COST
Visit a family planning clinic, your HMO, or a private doctor. Consult your clinician for more information.

Before insertion, discuss with your clinician how to watch for possible side effects or other problems. Be sure to read the package insert that comes with the IUD before you decide to have one inserted.

Your clinician also will provide you with a consent form containing detailed information about the risks and benefits of the IUD that you are considering. You need to read, understand, and sign this form before your clinician inserts the IUD.

The exam, insertion, and follow-up visit range from $175-$400. These services are priced according to income at some family planning clinics and are covered by Medicaid.

**jujubees** · 07-10-2002, 11:58 AM

Originally posted by DoPeY5007
as far as I know the woman has to have a child before an IUD can be used....

Well

to my mag for not including that info. It just said that they're safer and more popular these days.

**Pinkgirl36** · 07-10-2002, 11:59 AM

Originally posted by DoPeY5007

you have had a baby

ok well I won't have a kid just so I can use that...
so next please....

**Hiro** · 07-10-2002, 12:10 PM

I thought you aren't posting from work?

**Jenny** · 07-10-2002, 12:15 PM

I don't think it said you HAD to have a child to use it. I think it may be more recommended if you have had one. Check with the dr. pink...

**Pinkgirl36** · 07-10-2002, 12:18 PM

Originally posted by jujubees
Why exactly do you want to up your dosage of Ortho Tri-Cyclen?

From my experience, doctors won't change/increase your dosage unless you have some break-through bleeding (BTB). Give your body 2-3 months to fully adjust to them, but if you're not experiencing any BTB, then the pill is doing its job. When I had BTB with Ortho, my doc just gave me another type of pill, also a low dose, but with a different composition (more of this hormone, less of that one, etc.).

Norplant is pretty much ineffective the day that it's removed, but the Depo can take up to a year to wear off. Just another thing to consider, should you plan on having kids anytime soon. Don't forget to ask about IUD's too.

All options are pretty reliable, but you know how it goes ... for every 100 success stories with a certain form of contraception, there's a terrible story to counter it.

Do you have medical insurance with your new job? If so, you should schedule a session with an ob-gyn to discuss the forms of birth control that are right for you. If the insurance is a no-go, Planned Parenthood is another option.

Well, I have hand the BTB which sucked and I also was sick around that time...
And I wanna up the dosage/ or change types because I don't want to have a kid anytime soon like maybe 5 or 6 years from now, but no where in the near future ( plus I have Dopey's kids

) and I just really don't want any accidents of anything, cuz that would kinda just suck majorly ya know? So I'm kinda leaning towards Norplant cuz protection for 5 years would be nice...hehe and the fact with the pill sometimes I do forget to take it until later in the day and that's not good....

**Pinkgirl36** · 07-10-2002, 12:21 PM

Originally posted by Jenny
I don't think it said you HAD to have a child to use it. I think it may be more recommended if you have had one. Check with the dr. pink...

I've actually read that is really the only ppl they want to use that on because of the fact it can tear the lining wall or something along those lines that they really don't wanna use it on someone that hasn't had a kid

**Kim** · 07-15-2002, 06:39 AM

I was on depo for awhile, and I liked it, it just made it REALLY hard to get pregnant when I was ready. It took me a year and a half to regulate myself. I like my IUD. The only problem with it is that I cramp really bad, and I never did before I got it. Good luck with whatever you decide. I would suggest that you talk to your dr. and go over the options.

**Monkeyshack** · 07-18-2002, 12:08 PM

Hi,
I work for the Wyoming Health Council and we administrate Family Planning in Wyoming:

http://www.wyhc.org

How come you just don’t ask your doctor? If not give us a call/e-mail and we can provide you with some information. There is a new Birth Control Method called Ortho-Evra it is a weekly patch.

Ohh and this is a biggie... if you are worried about cost????
Family Planning Clinics work on a sliding fee scale, meaning that depending on how much you make, depends on how much you pay for your visit/exam and pills. This could mean that your fee would be FREE or by donation.. please check it out.
I hope this helps,
Corey

Wyoming Health Council
http://www.wyhc.org

**IntegraTypeR** · 07-24-2002, 02:35 PM

i think it was depo that made your sex drive go way down. my friend was on it and her libido was much lower than normal as a result of depo

i was on the pill (allesse) and it worked all right for me. my doctor told me that it has the lowest dosage of all the pills out there.

**latingirl** · 08-09-2002, 11:11 PM

My cousin decided on the depo shot strictly because it was going to make her gain weight, she was real skinny and she liked having thick thighs. The shot made my sister gain 20lbs and she can't seem to shed it.

The pill seems like a better option.

When I was with my old boyfriend (the one I thought was the ONE), I used to TRY to get pregnant(stupid, I know...was in a different place in my life), I used to always convince him not to wear a condom. Never happened. I think we only used a condom twice (the first night)over 10 years off and on. I never got pregnant. I went to the doctors several times over the years very concerned cause I REALLY want to have kids and they say I'm fine and my womb is just waiting for a baby. Grace...that's all I can say. He ended up in prison and he is the most controlling, dominate person I know. Thank God I didn't end up stuck with him in my life for the rest of my life.

**IntegraTypeR** · 08-11-2002, 01:16 PM

Originally posted by latingirl
My cousin decided on the depo shot strictly because it was going to make her gain weight, she was real skinny and she liked having thick thighs. The shot made my sister gain 20lbs and she can't seem to shed it.

The pill seems like a better option.

When I was with my old boyfriend (the one I thought was the ONE), I used to TRY to get pregnant(stupid, I know...was in a different place in my life), I used to always convince him not to wear a condom. Never happened. I think we only used a condom twice (the first night)over 10 years off and on. I never got pregnant. I went to the doctors several times over the years very concerned cause I REALLY want to have kids and they say I'm fine and my womb is just waiting for a baby. Grace...that's all I can say. He ended up in prison and he is the most controlling, dominate person I know. Thank God I didn't end up stuck with him in my life for the rest of my life.

omg... im so glad to hear that you are out of that relationship ^_^

**ShortStack** · 08-15-2002, 02:11 PM

Pinky, we are the same age and honestly, I've been on the pill for 2 years, going into my third year now. I have been told by many doctors that even if I slip and take the pill a couple hours late, as long I take it normally for the most part, I'm alright. These other methods have not been tested or been around as long as the pill and if you want kids in 5-6 years, I'd recommend just staying on the pill.

Also, some friends of mine take the shot, but it isn't as affective I've heard. Also, if you take it at the exact same time or close to it the next time, it can really screw things up. I just know that I've had 4 sexual partners in the past two years and I've been pregnant free. Hell, if you're really scared about missing a pill here and there, take the morning after pill for that time just to be extra sure.

**iluvbukaki** · 08-26-2002, 07:19 PM

Originally posted by Pinkgirl36
Ok girlies, I need advise, as of right now I am on Ortho-Tri Cyclen, and I found out from my doctor that I am on the lowest doseage they give out or something like that....but they won't give me a higher dosage for some reason ( maybe my insurance...I dunno ) but anyways, I want to switch to something else, but I don't really have many choices considering I'm only 19 and have never had a kid ( and don't plan on it for a LONG time ) I was doing research and found a few things, I know there is a new type of birth control pill out, but I don't remember the name so I can't look up statistics on it. Also I was wondering if Norplant or Depo Vera would be ok for me to even consider taking.... even though they do seem a bit pricey for things ( but cheaper then having a kid!!!! ) I just really need advise on what would be the smart thing for me to take. Thanks.

why dont u just give head. no kiddies!!!

**IntegraTypeR** · 08-26-2002, 11:32 PM

Originally posted by iluvbukaki

why dont u just give head. no kiddies!!!

eh..sorry, its not as fun for the girl as u mite think. i thik the other is more preferable (to be on the receivin end)

**Freelance Superhero** · 08-27-2002, 12:08 AM

assuming the guy knows how to do it right...

**ShortStack** · 08-28-2002, 08:33 PM

Originally posted by iluvbukaki

why dont u just give head. no kiddies!!!

Besides, some guys actually prefer sex. It's a different kind of feeling for each of them so sometimes you want to "mix" the pleasures.

**iluvbukaki** · 08-28-2002, 11:12 PM

Originally posted by ShortStack

Besides, some guys actually prefer sex. It's a different kind of feeling for each of them so sometimes you want to "mix" the pleasures.

Gee i dont know, head sex head sex... head is easier, and less
emotional. cant let emotions get in the way of good times.

No kiddies, no emotions, two thumbs up from this californian.

thanks for your opinions though

**ShortStack** · 08-31-2002, 09:52 AM

Giving head might be easier, less emotion, but I don't think any guy will deny the fact of how different sex feels versus head. I mean, some guys do prefer it, but every guy I've been with likes a little of both.

**Hiro** · 08-31-2002, 12:43 PM

Originally posted by ShortStack
Giving head might be easier, less emotion, but I don't think any guy will deny the fact of how different sex feels versus head. I mean, some guys do prefer it, but every guy I've been with likes a little of both.

**DankNstickY** · 08-31-2002, 03:50 PM

a little bit of both is good... i prefer more sex than head... but thats just me. they're both fun though

**latingirl** · 08-31-2002, 10:19 PM

Whew...it's gettin' HOT in herrrrr!!!

/me fans myself

**psycho-** · 09-03-2002, 01:14 AM

I honestly didn't need to read it.

I'll just go and sit in my "sheltered" life corner of the room and bawl up into a fetal position.

*poking out my eyes*

**Hiro** · 09-03-2002, 09:45 AM

Originally posted by psycho-
I honestly didn't need to read it. I'll just go and sit in my "sheltered" life corner of the room and bawl up into a fetal position.

*poking out my eyes*

What, you don't like watching?