So you’re considering going on birth control. Before you jump into any form of birth control, you want to do a bit of research. After all, the more you learn now the more confident you will feel about your decision. Because even though it isn’t permanent, it can affect your future health and well-being.
As a first-time birth control user, you may also feel a bit overwhelmed. Even if you’ve spoken with your friends, their chosen birth control methods might not be the best for you. You also don’t know how your body will respond — both physically and mentally. While some may feel great using their first choice, others might try multiple options before finding one that works best.
Birth control can be a divisive topic, especially in today’s world. That shouldn’t deter you from doing some research and looking into your options objectively. If you’re a first-time user, you’re in the right place. Keep reading to discover what you need to consider when choosing the right birth control for you.
1. Understand Your Why
Going on birth control shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s a major decision for you, and potentially your partner or significant other. Before you go any further down the decision path, take some time to understand your “why.” This can help you narrow down your choices and feel more in control of your selection.
Ask yourself why you want to go on birth control. Is it because you are struggling with heavy, abnormal periods? Have you started a new relationship and want to postpone having a baby? Or do you have chronic acne that could be kept in check by using birth control? You may have multiple reasons, all of which you should discuss openly with a health care provider.
Once you have determined your “why” you’ll be better prepared to move forward in obtaining birth control. Today you can chat virtually with a health care provider and receive birth control online. With this quick method, you may request a prescription seamlessly at any time of the day. It can even be delivered right to your door without the hassle of going to a pharmacy.
2. Know the Side Effects
Every type of birth control has side effects. Some are more extreme than others. However, before you go on any type of birth control you should know what to potentially expect. Some of these could be physical reactions, while others you may experience mentally or emotionally.
For example, the birth control pill can cause nausea, headaches, and sore or tender breasts. Alternatively, an IUD may sometimes be painful to insert and remove. The shot, which is injected every few months into your stomach, could result in spotting. Remember, every woman is different. So your friend’s experience will very likely be different than yours.
It’s important to talk with your health care provider about potential side effects. They will recommend the best options based on your individual body’s needs. Ask when you should follow up with them concerning any reactions to your selected method. It’s good to stick with one type of birth control for three months to allow your body to fully adjust. Of course, speak up if you feel like it’s not working for you or if you’re experiencing severe symptoms.
3. Consider Your Lifestyle
Lastly, it’s important to factor in your lifestyle when deciding which birth control is right for you. At first glance, you may think you’re ready physically and mentally to commit to one type. But it’s a big decision and one that shouldn’t be made haphazardly.
Think about your daily routines and habits as well as your personality characteristics. For example, it’s generally recommended that you take the birth control pill every day at the same time. However, you might have a varying schedule or simply know that you aren’t great at remembering to take your supplements. If that’s the case, you may want to consider a more long-term solution such as an IUD or ring.
Other lifestyle aspects to consider include if and when you are planning to have children in the future. Are you simply trying to prevent pregnancy, or are you looking for shorter, lighter periods as well? How often do you want to think about taking your birth control? Is it convenient and easily accessible to receive your birth control? These are all questions to ask yourself and bring up with your medical provider before making a decision.
Takeaways
Birth control can be a touchy subject. Some individuals are not comfortable speaking about their experiences with others. Others are vocal about their birth control journey and what has and hasn’t worked for them. At the end of the day, the choice you make is up to you.
With everything going on in today’s divided world, it’s critical to have an open mind when making your decision. You know your body better than anybody else. Yet, it can be helpful to speak about the process with your partner. Talk with them about your fears or insecurities. By bringing them into the conversation early, they can share in making the best decision for you and your relationship.