There are several different forms of birth control including pills, shots, patches and devices such as an IUD (intrauterine device). A woman may decide to use birth control to prevent starting or expanding her family. Some birth control may improve acne, while others may worsen it.
Depo-Provera
Depo-Provera may be referred to as "the shot" or just "depo." It is an injection taken once every three months to prevent pregnancy. Depo-Provera has benefits such as the convenience of only having to take it once every three months, and many women have reported a cease in menstrual cycles. Doctors may recommend the shot for women who have seizures, endometriosis, anemia or sickle cell disease. A woman should not take Depo-Provera if she has breast cancer, unexplained vaginal bleeding, a history of blood clotting or has a sensitivity to the shot. The risks of taking the injection include depression, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, nervousness, abdominal pain, weight gain, increased acne and loss of bone density. Depo-Provera does not protect against STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).
Birth control pills
Birth control pills are taken orally and may contain estrogen and/or progesterone. The pill has benefits such as the convenience of taking it daily. The pills are usually small and easy-to-swallow, and birth control pills also help regulate a woman's period. As of 2010, there are three birth control pills currently on the market that help prevent or reduce acne. Risks associated with taking the pill include nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, decreased sex drive, headaches and an increased risk of heart disease, blood clots, hypertension and hyperkalemia. Birth control pills do not protect against STDs.
IUD (intrauterine device)
An IUD is a devise worn inside the uterus, preventing pregnancy up to five years after insertion. It can be taken out at anytime before it needs to be changed with a quick return to fertility. Other benefits include decreased menstrual flow, lighter periods, it is safe to use during breastfeeding and it decreases risk of endometrial cancer. Risks include weight gain, nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, mood changes, ovarian cysts and increased acne. Should pregnancy occur while using an IUD, the chances of the pregnancy being ectopic pregnancy are much higher. Women under 20 years of age are usually not recommended as good candidates for an IUD. A woman is more susceptible to expelling an IUD if she has never been pregnant, previously expelled an IUD, has heavy/prolonged periods, or if the device is inserted immediately following child birth or abortion. The IUD does not protect against STDs.
Birth control patch
The birth control patch is very convenient because women who wear it only have to change the patch once a week. A new patch is applied weeks one, two and three. During the fourth week, the patch should be removed and left off allowing a period to occur. It can safely be worn in the shower, while swimming and even during strenuous activities. It is not ideal for women who weigh more than 198 lbs., have recently given birth, or had a recent miscarriage or an abortion. Side effects associated with the patch include nausea, headache, migraines, menstrual pain, weight gain, mood swings, skin irritation, breakthrough bleeding, breast tenderness, fatigue, diarrhea and increased acne. The patch does not protect against STDs.
