3 Things Every Woman Should Know Before Going On Birth Control
Posted on: 26 September 2017
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Thinking about going on birth control? If so, then you'll want to speak with an OBGYN. Most women will wait until their annual pelvic exam to ask their doctor for a birth control prescription, but you can call and schedule an appointment to get on hormonal birth control at any time. Before you begin a birth control prescription, however, there are a few things every woman should know.
It's Not Just for Preventing Pregnancy
For starters, understand that there are many benefits to being on birth control, aside from preventing pregnancy. Because birth control contains controlled dosages of hormones, birth control can also be a great way to regulate your cycle if you tend to have an abnormal or unpredictable cycle. For some, birth control can also help make periods lighter (or stop them altogether).
Depending on the type of birth control you choose, you may also find that it helps control acne caused by hormones and may even assist with controlling your weight.
There Are Different Options to Suit Your Needs
When many women think of birth control, they tend to think of hormonal birth control pills that you take daily. And while this is certainly one of the most common types of birth control available, there are many other options available to you, and you should explore them with your OBGYN to determine which is best for your needs and lifestyle. For example, if you don't like the idea of having to remember to take a pill at the same time each day, you might consider a birth control injection (shot), patch, or even an implant.
Adjusting After Birth Control Can Take Time
While you may have no plans to start a family anytime soon (maybe that's part of the reason you want to go on birth control), keep in mind that if you do want children down the road, you may need to go off your birth control a few months or more before you start trying to conceive. Each woman is different, but some women will take longer for their bodies to adjust to producing the necessary hormones again after going off birth control. As a result, it may take some time after going off birth control before you'll be able to become pregnant—but not necessarily!
Keep this information in mind as you prepare to go on birth control, and of course, speak with your OBGYN about any questions or concerns you have!