Things You'll Need:
- birth control
- grapefruit juice
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Step 1
Take your birth control pills as instructed. One pill should be taken every single day closest to the same time of the day as possible. Following this rule is very important not only to ensure that your birth control will remain effective but also to ensure steady hormone doses. Keep in mind it is very common to have spotting for the first few months that you are on the pill, although this will be reduced or eliminated altogether by taking the pill at the same time each day.
If you are having a problem with consistent spotting it may be due to your body not absorbing the hormones sufficiently. Consider taking the pill each day right before bed to help avoid this. At this time the pill's provided hormones don't need to compete with food to be absorbed. -
Step 2
Relieve yourself of stress. Stress levels play a huge part in your hormone levels. Being stressed may alter the way your hormones are distributed. Finding ways to handle or eliminate your stress can be very beneficial to prevent spotting. Many women find regular exercise helps lower stress levels. Make a conscious effort to have time to do things that make you happy. Whether it's a hot bath, time with a significant other, going out or reading a book, it's very important to avoid stress by making time for yourself.
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Step 3
Slow down your body's processing of estrogen. Sometimes your body may process estrogen too quickly, creating unstable hormone levels. Grapefruit juice is known to slow down estrogen metabolism. Drink a glass of juice with each pill to prompt the appropriate amounts of estrogen to be available to your body.
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Step 4
Avoid alcohol and tobacco. An occasional drink on a night out isn't harmful to your hormone levels, but consistent amounts of alcohol or tobacco alter your hormone levels and the way your body processes hormones.
