1. Knowing Which One Is Right For You
Oral contraceptives are one of the most reliable and well-known forms of birth control. Most oral contraceptives have a reliability rate of 97 percent, and you only need to take one pill a day, making them convenient and easy to use. In recent years, many new forms of oral contraceptives have given women a lot of new options in birth control. With all of these new choices. it's important to use an oral contraceptive that fits your lifestyle and is right for you.
2. Monthly Changes
The oral contraceptive you choose can affect your monthly menstrual cycle. You'll take most oral contraceptives for three weeks, then take placebo pills for one week while you menstruate. Newer oral contraceptives can reduce your cycle to just three or four periods a year. The estrogens in oral contraceptives can also cause your flow to become lighter, heavier or irregular, especially if you miss doses during the month. It's important to consider your current menstrual patterns and pick an oral contraceptive that will not affect it negatively.
3. Those Pesky Hormones
The estrogens in oral contraceptives can change the hormone levels in your body, causing your moods to fluctuate. You might notice increased feelings of irritability or sadness, or you might just feel overly emotional during certain times of the month. Some newer forms of oral contraceptive have lower estrogen levels, so they have a minimal effect on your hormones. Your doctor can help you find an oral contraceptive that will keep you safe without throwing your hormones out of control.
4. Your Friend, The Pharmacist
If you're confused about which oral contraceptive to choose, your local pharmacist can be a great resource for information. Your pharmacist can answer any questions you have and explain the differences between different forms of contraceptives. Your pharmacist can also make sure that the oral contraceptive you choose will not interfere with any other medications you're taking.
5. Get Covered
Insurance coverage is another factor to consider when picking an oral contraceptive. Even if your prescription insurance covers contraceptives, not all oral contraceptives will have the same co-pay. Newer contraceptives, packs that are taken for multiple months consecutively, or contraceptives that don't come in a generic form will all be more expensive. Your doctor can help you find an oral contraceptive that has a generic equivalent, and your insurance company can provide you with a list of oral contraceptives that are covered under your prescription insurance plan.
