When it comes to birth control, there are many different methods us girls can use. There’s the Nuvaring, good-old fashion condoms, and the most popular: the pill. So whether you are thinking about starting a birth control regimen, or looking to switch your birth control style, here are some pros and cons of the more popular options!
The Pill
Pros:
- Shorter, lighter, and more regular, periods
- May reduce the severity or frequency of menstrual migraines
- Can improve bleeding and pain associated with endometriosis and fibroids
- May improve acne
- Can lower risk of ovarian and uterine cancer
- Can lower risk of pelvic inflammatory disease
- May improve bone density in the years just before menopause
Cons:
- Light bleeding or “spotting” between periods.
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Weight gain
- Blood clots
Other options:
NuvaRing
It combines all the previously stated benefits of the pill, without having to remember to take it everyday, but is has to be inserted correctly in order to be effective. Sometimes this can mean going to your doctor every month
The Patch
It is low maintenance; all you have to do is simply place a new patch on an area of clean, dry skin once a week for three weeks in a row, followed by a patch-free week. If you forget and apply lotion or creams to the skin around the patch, it can loosen the adhesive backing and fall off.
IUDs
IUDs are small “T-shaped “device inserted into the uterus. It is the most effective form of birth control, and they can be in place for as long as twelve years! But they have been shown to increase menstrual flow and cramps. Also it has to be inserted by a medical professional and can cost up to $1,000!
So whatever birth control you choose, if you choose one at all, make sure to consult your primary physcian first! And don’t forget about the options that Health Services provides!
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