BellaOnline Forums Relationships Married No Kids BC Questions--Non Hormonal Methods

Recently, I had to stop taking hormonal birth control because of the nasty side effects that I have been experiencing. I have tried 3 different pills and the Nuvaring and have had side effects with all. Some of my female relatives, including my mom, and many friends, have had the same issues

My doctor explictly told me that I cannot have an IUD because I have never had children. But, I have heard from other people that you can get an IUD even if you haven't had children. The IUD websites say that as well.

My husband and I are currently using non-latex condoms in conjunction with gel-like spermicide or the sponge for protection.

Are there any other options out there that I don't know about? Any recommendations?

We just want to make sure that we are being safe. I just have this feeling that I am being irresponsible just because I have been using the hormones for so long.

Did you try the patch, too? I think that one is a pretty high dose, though.

I have not tried the patch. I prefer not to because of the increased risk of blood clots--I believe that the risk is higher with the patch than with pills, but I may be wrong.

I have been on high dose and low dose pills. I think that ring is one of the lowest doses out there now.

I really like the ring...what kind of side effects have you had, if you don't mind my asking?

I think I might have gained weight while on it, but otherwise, I don't think so.

your visual is kind of funny given the topic of conversation

i had severe side effects from LoEstrin, which was a low-dose BC that my doc prescribed several years ago because i was sick of the morning sickness and weight gain. i decided the prior side effects were "worth it".

since i'm paranoid, i have and will continue to use the Pill, despite the extra five pounds i carry in water weight and the nausea. i have discovered that working out regularly solves both problems, as well make me feel better in general.

i hope you figure your system out....

Happytobechildfree- that visual is an egg!?!? I seriously thought it was an eclipse! HAHA! I am definately going to have to change that. Anyway with the ring, I have had severe mood swings (sort of like manic depression- extreme highs and lows), hair loss, weight gain, breakthrough bleeding. I used to have issues with my contacts as well.

my doc told me the patch isn't as effective in women who are overweight. have any of you heard this?

I have heard that any hormonal contraceptive, not just the patch, can be less effective in overweight women.

I can't use hormonal birth control either - I now have my tubes tied and LOVE it! The "can't have an IUD because you haven't had children" has to do with the small risk of damage to your uterus so that you can't have children. For some reason, it's supposed to be less tragic to not be able to have more kids than your first kid - regardless of whether or not you actually want them. If latex is a problem for the two of you, many of the non-hormonal methods seem to involve rubber (diaphram and cervical cap). I believe you can get contraceptive sponges again (might have to order them from Canada.) My doctor told me years ago that contraceptive sponges plus condoms are as effective as the pill.

A few years ago, my doctor referred me to a nurse-midwife (through Kaiser) just to discuss the best birth control option for me. It was absolutely one of the most valuable hours of my life. She really knew all about all the different options. If you have Kaiser, ask your provider about this. If not, ask around. It would be well worth paying for if you had to.

Julie