How to Choose the Best Birth Control Pill
Selecting a type of birth control is a highly personal decision. When it comes to birth control pills, the options are numerous. The decision to start a birth control pill regimen cannot be made alone. You'll need the support of your doctor. So begin the process by making an appointment with a gynecologist. She has the best information regarding what pill might work best for a woman with your medical history.
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Instructions
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Learn about the types of birth controls. There are two main types of pills: combination pills and mini pills. Combination pills contain both estrogen and progesterone. The mini pill contains progesterone only. Combination pills prevent pregnancy in three ways: preventing ovulation, increasing the amount of cervical mucus and decreasing the lining in the uterus meant to support a pregnancy. Mini pills prevent pregnancy by increasing cervical mucus and decreasing the lining of the uterus. Both are types of pills are similarly effective, though some studies indicate that the combination pill is more reliable. However, combination pills can result in more side effects than mini pills.
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Consider your weight. Studies indicate that women who are overweight are not fully protected against pregnancy when they take the pill, particularly a pill with lower hormone levels. If you have a body mass index of 27 or higher, you should ask your doctor about this issue before beginning a pill regimen. He or she may recommend a pill with higher hormone levels or another type of birth control.
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Think about your gynecological history. For example, if you have a history of break-through bleeding while on the pill, a higher hormone level might prevent such bleeding. Women with endometriosis might also consider a pill that can be taken continuously. Taking a pill continuously means that the woman does not take the "inactive" pills in the pack, but instead continues to take active pills without taking a break. Doctors will either ask you to allow yourself just a few menstrual cycles each year, or they may tell you to avoid having menstrual cycles completely. The theory behind this type of pill regimen is that hormone changes during pregnancy may spark growth of endometrial lesions. If you stop the menstrual cycle you stop the growth.
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Be open with your doctor about your medical history. For example, if you have a history of clotting, the pill may not be right for you. Women with a history of heart attack or stroke should also avoid taking the pill. Because some research suggests that women taking the pill have an increased risk of breast cancer, women who have a family history of estrogen-sensitive breast cancers may want to avoid taking a combination birth control pill.
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Talk to your doctor if you smoke. Some research indicates that women who smoke while taking the pill are at increased risk of clotting. Smokers who are over the age of 35 are more at risk than younger women. Your doctor may tell you to try another form of birth control.
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Tips & Warnings
As with any medication, side effects are possible while taking birth control pills. Talk to your doctor if any of these side effects are particularly bothersome. Remember, no method of birth control is 100 percent effective. If taken correctly, birth control pills are between 92 and 99 percent effective. Talk to your doctor about effectiveness of your particular birth control pill. He or she can provide with you tips regarding how to take your pill to assure optimal effectiveness. Remember, you may not find the best birth control for you on the first try. If you are experiencing side effects or are having trouble remembering to take your pills, go back to your doctor. He or she can help you find a family planning system that suits you.
