Forums > Social Discussion > The Pill - The Personal, the Political and the Medical
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2,996 posts
Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
100 characters max...
2,996 posts
Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
Posted:
This thread has been started as a response to some discussion on another about the Pill, and the side effects for women. On page four of the [Old link] , Doc Lightning raised the issue of the pill as a way of managing the female menstrual cycle noting that the female patients he had prescribed it to had had a noticeable improvement in dealing with their period every month.
This was followed with discussion by Clare and Aimee about the adverse impacts they had had on the pill. Spritie made the point that there are different pill formulations, and that it was important to try different ones to find the right one for you.
Doc Lightning made an interesting point that some people link other unrelated symptoms to medication they are taking. He gave the example of a patient he had had in medical college who blamed weight gain on the course of prozac she was taking, although it was most likely caused by a pituitary tumor which gave her the Cushing's Disease.
At this point I will deviate a little from just re-counting what was said in the thread. I want to explain my response, giving as full a picture as possible, so that people can make a fair judgement about any comments made.
I will be straight-forward and say that whilst I understood the point that Doc made, I found his language condescending and a little over-bearing. By recounting the tale that he chose to tell, in the language he chose "She SWEARS it was the Prozac. It wasn't, but she'll never believe it." it seemed that he implied that all the people who had posted up to that point were complaining about something that wasn't there or wasn't real.
I recognise that this was probably not Doc's intent. However I have had my own personal experiences (see, I told you I was going to be as honest as possible in order to allow people to see the full picture) where doctors are similarly dismissive about emotional symptoms.
I am not about to stop using the Pill however I have had several friends who, despite trying a couple of formulations feel "out of their skin" or "not themselves". I know that those feelings have been dismissed by members of the medical profession. With the expectation that it is just something you "pretty much have to put up with to stay baby-free".
If more women were made aware of the possible emotional side-effects, they may be able to get to a doctor sooner to change their pill formulation, rather than going off the pill and wondering why the last couple of months had felt so strange. And if more doctors thought about the implications of how it is to feel "not yourself" every day (basically it feels like a mental illness) then maybe they would take these symptoms more seriously.
This thread has been started as a response to some discussion on another about the Pill, and the side effects for women. On page four of the [Old link] , Doc Lightning raised the issue of the pill as a way of managing the female menstrual cycle noting that the female patients he had prescribed it to had had a noticeable improvement in dealing with their period every month.
This was followed with discussion by Clare and Aimee about the adverse impacts they had had on the pill. Spritie made the point that there are different pill formulations, and that it was important to try different ones to find the right one for you.
Doc Lightning made an interesting point that some people link other unrelated symptoms to medication they are taking. He gave the example of a patient he had had in medical college who blamed weight gain on the course of prozac she was taking, although it was most likely caused by a pituitary tumor which gave her the Cushing's Disease.
At this point I will deviate a little from just re-counting what was said in the thread. I want to explain my response, giving as full a picture as possible, so that people can make a fair judgement about any comments made.
I will be straight-forward and say that whilst I understood the point that Doc made, I found his language condescending and a little over-bearing. By recounting the tale that he chose to tell, in the language he chose "She SWEARS it was the Prozac. It wasn't, but she'll never believe it." it seemed that he implied that all the people who had posted up to that point were complaining about something that wasn't there or wasn't real.
I recognise that this was probably not Doc's intent. However I have had my own personal experiences (see, I told you I was going to be as honest as possible in order to allow people to see the full picture) where doctors are similarly dismissive about emotional symptoms.
I am not about to stop using the Pill however I have had several friends who, despite trying a couple of formulations feel "out of their skin" or "not themselves". I know that those feelings have been dismissed by members of the medical profession. With the expectation that it is just something you "pretty much have to put up with to stay baby-free".
If more women were made aware of the possible emotional side-effects, they may be able to get to a doctor sooner to change their pill formulation, rather than going off the pill and wondering why the last couple of months had felt so strange. And if more doctors thought about the implications of how it is to feel "not yourself" every day (basically it feels like a mental illness) then maybe they would take these symptoms more seriously.
It was a day for screaming at inanimate objects.
What this calls for is a special mix of psychology and extreme violence...
BRONZE Member
old hand
1,107 posts
Location: In a test pit, Mackay, Australia
old hand
1,107 posts
Location: In a test pit, Mackay, Australia
Posted:
It's something women should be more aware of, but previously never once has a doctor ever told me "if you start feeling strange, come back." I've been warned about everything from DVT to weight gain, but emotionally, nothing.
I was once on Dianette. I felt like killing everyone for two weeks out of the four, I assumed it was the same for all pills, came off it, and took ten years to give them another try, luckily my new one (Yasmin) suits me immensely.
I had heard from magazines (thanks, Cosmo) about emotional side-effects. I didn't go back because my then doctor was a male Arab who I didn't feel comfortable discussing these issues with. Maybe it's unfair to him as a professional but I realy didn't think he approved of girls like me having contraceptives at all. I hope I'm completely wrong, but didn't feel like arguing the point back then.
My present doctor is very sympathetic, and made a point of asking me to come back in after a couple of months to see how I was doing on it. It makes so much difference not to be dismissed.
It's something women should be more aware of, but previously never once has a doctor ever told me "if you start feeling strange, come back." I've been warned about everything from DVT to weight gain, but emotionally, nothing.
I was once on Dianette. I felt like killing everyone for two weeks out of the four, I assumed it was the same for all pills, came off it, and took ten years to give them another try, luckily my new one (Yasmin) suits me immensely.
I had heard from magazines (thanks, Cosmo) about emotional side-effects. I didn't go back because my then doctor was a male Arab who I didn't feel comfortable discussing these issues with. Maybe it's unfair to him as a professional but I realy didn't think he approved of girls like me having contraceptives at all. I hope I'm completely wrong, but didn't feel like arguing the point back then.
My present doctor is very sympathetic, and made a point of asking me to come back in after a couple of months to see how I was doing on it. It makes so much difference not to be dismissed.
There is a slight possibility that I am not actually right all of the time.
SILVER Member
Pooh-Bah
2,014 posts
Location: Galveston, TX, USA
Pooh-Bah
2,014 posts
Location: Galveston, TX, USA
Posted:
I think there are a lot of docs out there that would just rather not deal with such issues and fail to educate themselves properly about all the birth control options out there these days. I've had both fabulous docs that went down the gammut of pills for me (I think I was on a total of 5 different varities under her until we found one that didn't make me spot - emotional issues have never been an issue for me). I've also seen docs that won't even bother to educate me about breast self-exams. Needless to say, I ditch those docs super quick and seek out doctors who aren't afraid of female health issues, as well as educating me about them, and regularly checking on my body during yearly exams instead of just performing a pap smear and nothing else.
So, my suggestion is if your doc isn't willing to work with you, then find a new one. You can't just assume, though, that your doc will automatically know everything, so it is often helpful to have done some of your own homework and maybe keep a journal of your moods/cycle so that they can see where you are coming from.
I think there are a lot of docs out there that would just rather not deal with such issues and fail to educate themselves properly about all the birth control options out there these days. I've had both fabulous docs that went down the gammut of pills for me (I think I was on a total of 5 different varities under her until we found one that didn't make me spot - emotional issues have never been an issue for me). I've also seen docs that won't even bother to educate me about breast self-exams. Needless to say, I ditch those docs super quick and seek out doctors who aren't afraid of female health issues, as well as educating me about them, and regularly checking on my body during yearly exams instead of just performing a pap smear and nothing else.
So, my suggestion is if your doc isn't willing to work with you, then find a new one. You can't just assume, though, that your doc will automatically know everything, so it is often helpful to have done some of your own homework and maybe keep a journal of your moods/cycle so that they can see where you are coming from.
BRONZE Member
Carpal \'Tunnel
5,814 posts
Location: Perth, Australia
Carpal \'Tunnel
5,814 posts
Location: Perth, Australia
Posted:
As a Doctor you are in the face of humanity all the time. dealing with only the facts that people tell you and drag out of them and intuit the rest.
I wasnt offended by the directness of the Docs comment. . I dont think he was doubting what people post either. But I can see the frustration of dealing with people who believe the net more than their doctor with no reasoning to be done. Who cannot believe medical evidence, such as the cushings diagnosis.
We do need to educate on the effects of contraceptives. We need to educate our young people to respect their bodies and recognise changes and assess them. The information is out there, but how to get it to the audience. The dont listen in sex ed at school so unless they do read a cosmo/cleo article how will they know. Every doctor I know has talked about common side effects on mediaction but I dont always take it in. I know a number of women that the pill ironically reduces their libido considerably but still choose to use it.
A number of women I know are shifting toward IUDs due to the emotional issues with the pill and remembering to take it regularly. IUDs here though are not given as a real contraceptive choice although I think they are now a pretty safe and effective option.
I have a doctor who appreciates that I go in and am very forthright about my needs and questioning his decisions is ok. He is happy to explain why he does the things he does and leaves the final choices to me. Its really important to have a rapport with someone making important decisions in your own life.
As a Doctor you are in the face of humanity all the time. dealing with only the facts that people tell you and drag out of them and intuit the rest.
I wasnt offended by the directness of the Docs comment. . I dont think he was doubting what people post either. But I can see the frustration of dealing with people who believe the net more than their doctor with no reasoning to be done. Who cannot believe medical evidence, such as the cushings diagnosis.
We do need to educate on the effects of contraceptives. We need to educate our young people to respect their bodies and recognise changes and assess them. The information is out there, but how to get it to the audience. The dont listen in sex ed at school so unless they do read a cosmo/cleo article how will they know. Every doctor I know has talked about common side effects on mediaction but I dont always take it in. I know a number of women that the pill ironically reduces their libido considerably but still choose to use it.
A number of women I know are shifting toward IUDs due to the emotional issues with the pill and remembering to take it regularly. IUDs here though are not given as a real contraceptive choice although I think they are now a pretty safe and effective option.
I have a doctor who appreciates that I go in and am very forthright about my needs and questioning his decisions is ok. He is happy to explain why he does the things he does and leaves the final choices to me. Its really important to have a rapport with someone making important decisions in your own life.
Is it the Truth?
Is it Fair to all concerned?
Will it build Goodwill and Better Friendships?
Will it be Beneficial to all concerned?
Im in a lonely battle with the world with a fish to match the chip on my shoulder. Gnu in Binnu in a cnu
GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
I apologize, first off, because I didn't mean to be condescending.
Now there are good reasons not to use a medication and there are bad reasons to use a medication.
A *GOOD REASON* is "it gave me a side-effect."
A *BAD REASON* is "it made my best friend's third toes smell of green elderberries and it's artificial."
The fact that someone you know had a bad effect, especially when the effect is not known to be associated with the medicine, should not dissuade you. Everyone is individual. I have patients on various medications that I have been on myself and have loved...or hated. But I never let my personal experience with a medication interfere with my decision as to whether it's right for the patient. The same goes for anyone else.
"It's artificial" belies a closed-minded thought process. "Artificial" does not mean "dangerous" (aspirin is artificial and is much safer than the natural salicylic acid from which it is derived) and "natural" does not mean "safe" (Socrates drank a natural herbal tea as his last drink... Digitalis, cocaine, morphine, and poison ivy/oak are all natural).
What I'm saying is that it's important to open your mind to contraception because it's FAR safer than pregnancy. And it can help relieve unpleasant symptoms of menstruation.
I apologize, first off, because I didn't mean to be condescending.
Now there are good reasons not to use a medication and there are bad reasons to use a medication.
A *GOOD REASON* is "it gave me a side-effect."
A *BAD REASON* is "it made my best friend's third toes smell of green elderberries and it's artificial."
The fact that someone you know had a bad effect, especially when the effect is not known to be associated with the medicine, should not dissuade you. Everyone is individual. I have patients on various medications that I have been on myself and have loved...or hated. But I never let my personal experience with a medication interfere with my decision as to whether it's right for the patient. The same goes for anyone else.
"It's artificial" belies a closed-minded thought process. "Artificial" does not mean "dangerous" (aspirin is artificial and is much safer than the natural salicylic acid from which it is derived) and "natural" does not mean "safe" (Socrates drank a natural herbal tea as his last drink... Digitalis, cocaine, morphine, and poison ivy/oak are all natural).
What I'm saying is that it's important to open your mind to contraception because it's FAR safer than pregnancy. And it can help relieve unpleasant symptoms of menstruation.
-Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
SILVER Member
enthusiast
271 posts
Location: Bradford *rolls eyes*, United Kingdom
enthusiast
271 posts
Location: Bradford *rolls eyes*, United Kingdom
Posted:
This thread has come at just the right time for me.
i was on the pill for two years, and cam off it about six months ago, for a few reasons including
*giving my body a rest
*getting my perisods back to normal (they became very light)
*not being in a relationship ment i didn't need contraception.
so. I've been with my boyfriend for about two months now, and we've been using condoms for protection. Now we've both been checked out and given a clean bill of health, i want to find another method of contaception.
HOWEVER
*i'm not too brilliant at remembering to take the pill
*i really don't like the idea of not having a period at all
(ruling out the injection etc)
But honsetly i am not too sure what else my options are. My periods are really heavy and painfull (but even not on the pill are amazingly regular).
So what i need is something to aliviate the horrendus pain each month and stop me getting pregnant.
Suggestions?
(i know this is something i will discus with my doctor before making any decisions, i just wondered what everyone else thought?)
This thread has come at just the right time for me.
i was on the pill for two years, and cam off it about six months ago, for a few reasons including
*giving my body a rest
*getting my perisods back to normal (they became very light)
*not being in a relationship ment i didn't need contraception.
so. I've been with my boyfriend for about two months now, and we've been using condoms for protection. Now we've both been checked out and given a clean bill of health, i want to find another method of contaception.
HOWEVER
*i'm not too brilliant at remembering to take the pill
*i really don't like the idea of not having a period at all
(ruling out the injection etc)
But honsetly i am not too sure what else my options are. My periods are really heavy and painfull (but even not on the pill are amazingly regular).
So what i need is something to aliviate the horrendus pain each month and stop me getting pregnant.
Suggestions?
(i know this is something i will discus with my doctor before making any decisions, i just wondered what everyone else thought?)
member
69 posts
Location: Melb
69 posts
Location: Melb
Posted:
Hi everyone,
just wanted to have a little side rant here...
I fail to see why women are still responsible for the contraception in the majority of relationships!! If the male partner is constantly fertile, yet the female partner can only fall pregnant on an average of two days each month, why are we the ones taking the pills??? paying for the scripts, having IUDs inserted, adding massive quantities of estrogen into our waterways (some people dispute this but..) and altering the chemistry of our bodies??
Yes, using hormonal contraceptives probably is safer than being pregnant but women are not pregnant for years on end...
I understand/am aware that condoms are less than perfect, but if you are in a secure and loving relationship, it shouldn't be a problem. If you are not in a secure and loving relationship then its a *good* idea anyway - diseases!!!
Re painful periods, I went off the pill some time ago and have found I experience far less pain/cramping than when I was on it..my personal experience - everyone's different though.
I know several women who say that they experienced less problems when they stopped using tampons and switched to either keepers or pads; even using natural tampons rather than tampax or lil-lets etc is much better. Do you know how they make your average tampon??! Check this out: https://www.moteldarlene.com/tampons.htm
https://www.spotsite.org/village.html
Hi everyone,
just wanted to have a little side rant here...
I fail to see why women are still responsible for the contraception in the majority of relationships!! If the male partner is constantly fertile, yet the female partner can only fall pregnant on an average of two days each month, why are we the ones taking the pills??? paying for the scripts, having IUDs inserted, adding massive quantities of estrogen into our waterways (some people dispute this but..) and altering the chemistry of our bodies??
Yes, using hormonal contraceptives probably is safer than being pregnant but women are not pregnant for years on end...
I understand/am aware that condoms are less than perfect, but if you are in a secure and loving relationship, it shouldn't be a problem. If you are not in a secure and loving relationship then its a *good* idea anyway - diseases!!!
Re painful periods, I went off the pill some time ago and have found I experience far less pain/cramping than when I was on it..my personal experience - everyone's different though.
I know several women who say that they experienced less problems when they stopped using tampons and switched to either keepers or pads; even using natural tampons rather than tampax or lil-lets etc is much better. Do you know how they make your average tampon??! Check this out: https://www.moteldarlene.com/tampons.htm
https://www.spotsite.org/village.html
I said perhaps, and thats FINAL.
I love my length!
GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
Well until they come out with a male contraceptive pill (and there are a number of very good reasons as to why that's very difficult to do) it's a matter of pure biological fact.
Shutting off ovulation is easy to do. Shutting off sperm production is next to impossible. It doesn't change the fact that no birth control prevents STD's except for a latex or polyurethane condom properly used every time and, so, in that sense, while women may be responsible for contraception, men are responsible for STD prevention.
Oh, and I just lost. :flee:
EDITED_BY: Doc Lightning (1158582566)
Written by: KiwiBex
Hi everyone,
just wanted to have a little side rant here...
I fail to see why women are still responsible for the contraception in the majority of relationships!!
Well until they come out with a male contraceptive pill (and there are a number of very good reasons as to why that's very difficult to do) it's a matter of pure biological fact.
Shutting off ovulation is easy to do. Shutting off sperm production is next to impossible. It doesn't change the fact that no birth control prevents STD's except for a latex or polyurethane condom properly used every time and, so, in that sense, while women may be responsible for contraception, men are responsible for STD prevention.
Oh, and I just lost. :flee:
EDITED_BY: Doc Lightning (1158582566)
-Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
SILVER Member
newbie
15 posts
Location: London, United Kingdom
newbie
15 posts
Location: London, United Kingdom
Posted:
I also had a problem with remembering to take the pill and actually had a couple of pregnancy scares a few years ago. I have now been on the injection for about 7 years and it works really well for me as you only have to remeber it every three months. There are some side effects that come with it that some people may not like, for example I don't have periods at all now and only 'spot' occasionally and unpredictably.
I have also have one or two friends who have been on the injection and have experienced real problems. Two people I know found themselves extremely depressed after receiving their injection and ended up on anti-depressants for a couple of months while the contraception left their systems. Another friend found that she began bleeding every time she had sex after starting to have the injection and, although after extensive examination and testing no-one could work out why, it stopped when she came off the injection and changed to another form of contraception. The only problem I have had with it is when I decided to come of it and have a break after splitting up with my boyfriend, I bacame very depressed and emotionally unstable for several months and although some of this could be attributed to the fact I had just split up with somone I am certain my feelings and reactions were more extreme that they otherwise would have been.
I understand what doc is saying about not necessarily letting the bad experiences of someone else put you of trying something that may be the best option for you, but I think in some cases, such as this where the bad effects have been severe and long lasting due to the length oif time the injection stays in your system, it is worthwhile. My doctor and those of my friends never mentioned effects anything like these when we were deciding which contraception to take and i think it is important to know what you are possibly letting yourself in for.
On another note, in relation to people feeling miss or under informed by their doctors on the issue of contraception I would recomend using a family planning clinc to discuss this issue as they are obviously dedicated to contraception/sexual issues and as such, in my experience, both more relaxed and informative
I also had a problem with remembering to take the pill and actually had a couple of pregnancy scares a few years ago. I have now been on the injection for about 7 years and it works really well for me as you only have to remeber it every three months. There are some side effects that come with it that some people may not like, for example I don't have periods at all now and only 'spot' occasionally and unpredictably.
I have also have one or two friends who have been on the injection and have experienced real problems. Two people I know found themselves extremely depressed after receiving their injection and ended up on anti-depressants for a couple of months while the contraception left their systems. Another friend found that she began bleeding every time she had sex after starting to have the injection and, although after extensive examination and testing no-one could work out why, it stopped when she came off the injection and changed to another form of contraception. The only problem I have had with it is when I decided to come of it and have a break after splitting up with my boyfriend, I bacame very depressed and emotionally unstable for several months and although some of this could be attributed to the fact I had just split up with somone I am certain my feelings and reactions were more extreme that they otherwise would have been.
I understand what doc is saying about not necessarily letting the bad experiences of someone else put you of trying something that may be the best option for you, but I think in some cases, such as this where the bad effects have been severe and long lasting due to the length oif time the injection stays in your system, it is worthwhile. My doctor and those of my friends never mentioned effects anything like these when we were deciding which contraception to take and i think it is important to know what you are possibly letting yourself in for.
On another note, in relation to people feeling miss or under informed by their doctors on the issue of contraception I would recomend using a family planning clinc to discuss this issue as they are obviously dedicated to contraception/sexual issues and as such, in my experience, both more relaxed and informative
fire pretty
BRONZE Member
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
Posted:
I was on the pill for years for both extremely heavy and unregular periods and other reasons, and was quite scared of getting off it because it was all so much less painful on the pill.
Guess what happened...
it's even BETTER without the pill, so it looks like all I had needed was some getting it into a pattern, and it just stayed there. It's not perfectly regular now, but nearly painfree, and the only "bad" thing I got back are some spots, but hey. If I'd known that I would've gone off it 3 years ago
I was on the pill for years for both extremely heavy and unregular periods and other reasons, and was quite scared of getting off it because it was all so much less painful on the pill.
Guess what happened...
it's even BETTER without the pill, so it looks like all I had needed was some getting it into a pattern, and it just stayed there. It's not perfectly regular now, but nearly painfree, and the only "bad" thing I got back are some spots, but hey. If I'd known that I would've gone off it 3 years ago
"vices are like genitals - most are ugly to behold, and yet we find that our own are dear to us."
(G.W. Dahlquist)
Owner of Dragosani's left half
SILVER Member
Destroyer of kitchen appliances
180 posts
Location: Liverpool, UK
Destroyer of kitchen appliances
180 posts
Location: Liverpool, UK
Posted:
There are advantages and disadvantages to every form of contraception. I've been on the pill (Dianette - prescribed for acne but is also a contraceptive pill that works slightly differently to other brands by blocking androgen receptors; male hormones responsible for stimulating skin growth and oil production) and had the contraceptive injection.
Neither of those made me feel brilliant and I'll go as far as to say that the injection was a complete disaster. Breakthrough bleeding constantly for 6 months, anyone? Not fun.
When that started happening, I was told it often happens with the first injection and that once I'd had another one, it should settle down. It didn't, so I was prescribed the pill on top of the contraceptive injection to try and control the bleeding. With my personal and family history, I shouldn't have been allowed to take the pill but I begged for it and eventually got given it.
Because of my experiences, I've completely gone off the idea of using any form of hormonal contraception, which pretty much leaves me with just condoms.
I'm not anti-pill or injection though. I can still recognise that my experience was exactly that; MY experience. It doesn't mean that there aren't thousands of other woman who regularly take the pill or have the injection and are perfectly fine on it. I don't doubt that there are many who aren't, but in the case of the pill, there are many different brands with differing amounts of hormones.
Women should feel able to ask their doctor to switch brands - the only reason they may have been prescribed a specific brand in the first place is because their doctor is used to prescribing just that one. Family planning clinics are brilliant places for discussing contraception and there is no problem with using one and then going to your doctor for other matters.
There are advantages and disadvantages to every form of contraception. I've been on the pill (Dianette - prescribed for acne but is also a contraceptive pill that works slightly differently to other brands by blocking androgen receptors; male hormones responsible for stimulating skin growth and oil production) and had the contraceptive injection.
Neither of those made me feel brilliant and I'll go as far as to say that the injection was a complete disaster. Breakthrough bleeding constantly for 6 months, anyone? Not fun.
When that started happening, I was told it often happens with the first injection and that once I'd had another one, it should settle down. It didn't, so I was prescribed the pill on top of the contraceptive injection to try and control the bleeding. With my personal and family history, I shouldn't have been allowed to take the pill but I begged for it and eventually got given it.
Because of my experiences, I've completely gone off the idea of using any form of hormonal contraception, which pretty much leaves me with just condoms.
I'm not anti-pill or injection though. I can still recognise that my experience was exactly that; MY experience. It doesn't mean that there aren't thousands of other woman who regularly take the pill or have the injection and are perfectly fine on it. I don't doubt that there are many who aren't, but in the case of the pill, there are many different brands with differing amounts of hormones.
Women should feel able to ask their doctor to switch brands - the only reason they may have been prescribed a specific brand in the first place is because their doctor is used to prescribing just that one. Family planning clinics are brilliant places for discussing contraception and there is no problem with using one and then going to your doctor for other matters.
My brain is about as useful as a chocolate teapot, but unfortunately not as tasty.
Squueee!
BRONZE Member
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
Posted:
thing with brands is... on doctor put me on Yasmin because apparently that was the best for diabetics, and when I came over to the UK I was put on another one immediately because apparently Yasmin was the worst possible for diabetics. Go figure...
Since I've been told later that Yasmin is more expensive than the one I got instead and a lot of girls (diabetic or not) had been switched to that one I do have my doubts.
I understand that doctors can't always back up their decisions with proper evidence to everyone, for lack of time and sometimes education of the person they talk to, but I'm convinced that the current lack of information patients get, and how they are often intimidated by the "I am the specialist!!" attitude doesn't help. Especially with a topic like contraception, that may not be easy for many women to discuss with a stranger.
thing with brands is... on doctor put me on Yasmin because apparently that was the best for diabetics, and when I came over to the UK I was put on another one immediately because apparently Yasmin was the worst possible for diabetics. Go figure...
Since I've been told later that Yasmin is more expensive than the one I got instead and a lot of girls (diabetic or not) had been switched to that one I do have my doubts.
I understand that doctors can't always back up their decisions with proper evidence to everyone, for lack of time and sometimes education of the person they talk to, but I'm convinced that the current lack of information patients get, and how they are often intimidated by the "I am the specialist!!" attitude doesn't help. Especially with a topic like contraception, that may not be easy for many women to discuss with a stranger.
"vices are like genitals - most are ugly to behold, and yet we find that our own are dear to us."
(G.W. Dahlquist)
Owner of Dragosani's left half
SILVER Member
Pooh-Bah
2,014 posts
Location: Galveston, TX, USA
Pooh-Bah
2,014 posts
Location: Galveston, TX, USA
Posted:
Since several people have chimed in about disliking the pill for one reason or another, I thought I'd put my two cents in and say I love the one I'm on. It's a constant dose, so no tri-phasic regimen for me. What this means is that I get the same hormones day in and day out, for 21 days, and then have my cycle if I so choose. Since it's a constant dose, that means I don't have emotional or hormonal fluctuations. It also means that I can occassionally go without a period if I so chose. This is wonderful, because it allows me to be period free on vacations, or if I have a special date planned. I've never had any ill side effects from doing this, and do so with my doctors approval. I've been on the pill now, in one variety or another, for 9 years, and have only had a minor issue (spotting) with the tri-phasic which is why I am now on a constant dose.
I'll also advise people to go see a family planning clinic if they are worried about their doctor only prescribing one type/brand of pill. Planned Parenthood has loads of info and the docs there will happily work with you through the various options if you have a problem with one. True, you may have to wait longer to see a doc, but the willingness to discuss options and their knowledge is usually worth it at least once.
Since several people have chimed in about disliking the pill for one reason or another, I thought I'd put my two cents in and say I love the one I'm on. It's a constant dose, so no tri-phasic regimen for me. What this means is that I get the same hormones day in and day out, for 21 days, and then have my cycle if I so choose. Since it's a constant dose, that means I don't have emotional or hormonal fluctuations. It also means that I can occassionally go without a period if I so chose. This is wonderful, because it allows me to be period free on vacations, or if I have a special date planned. I've never had any ill side effects from doing this, and do so with my doctors approval. I've been on the pill now, in one variety or another, for 9 years, and have only had a minor issue (spotting) with the tri-phasic which is why I am now on a constant dose.
I'll also advise people to go see a family planning clinic if they are worried about their doctor only prescribing one type/brand of pill. Planned Parenthood has loads of info and the docs there will happily work with you through the various options if you have a problem with one. True, you may have to wait longer to see a doc, but the willingness to discuss options and their knowledge is usually worth it at least once.
SILVER Member
Carpal \'Tunnel
4,172 posts
Location: Hastings, United Kingdom
Carpal \'Tunnel
4,172 posts
Location: Hastings, United Kingdom
Posted:
I'll second that..
Incidently I got my first injection at a family planning clinic.
I went in on an under 25's drop-in day, and the place was nearly bursting at the seams (over half of the people there were in school uniforms
).
I had to wait an hour before anyone could see me.
But when I did get in the doctor was very helpful. After getting all my information down I spoke with her about what I wanted. She told me she wouldnt give it to me today, sent me away with a handful of leaflets, and a bag full of condoms and lube just for good measure, and told me to think about it.
Next week I went back and I was given the injection.
Family planning clinics are a great place to get a second opinion if you're worried, and a large majority of the doctors are female. As silly as it is, myself, and think most other women feel more comfortable talking to another woman about such things.
Another thing to point out is that when I go to the clinic, although it may be packed with people waiting to be seen, I don't feel rushed, like I am at the Doctors.
No talking fast no hurridly taking my blood pressure. Just calm...
As said in the other thread, I am comming off the injection. I don't know what happend this time around but it messed my head up completely and truley and made me into a total arsehole.
Giving a body and mind a rest
Written by: spritie
I'll also advise people to go see a family planning clinic if they are worried about their doctor only prescribing one type/brand of pill. Planned Parenthood has loads of info and the docs there will happily work with you through the various options if you have a problem with one. True, you may have to wait longer to see a doc, but the willingness to discuss options and their knowledge is usually worth it at least once.
I'll second that..
Incidently I got my first injection at a family planning clinic.
I went in on an under 25's drop-in day, and the place was nearly bursting at the seams (over half of the people there were in school uniforms
).I had to wait an hour before anyone could see me.
But when I did get in the doctor was very helpful. After getting all my information down I spoke with her about what I wanted. She told me she wouldnt give it to me today, sent me away with a handful of leaflets, and a bag full of condoms and lube just for good measure, and told me to think about it.
Next week I went back and I was given the injection.
Family planning clinics are a great place to get a second opinion if you're worried, and a large majority of the doctors are female. As silly as it is, myself, and think most other women feel more comfortable talking to another woman about such things.
Another thing to point out is that when I go to the clinic, although it may be packed with people waiting to be seen, I don't feel rushed, like I am at the Doctors.
No talking fast no hurridly taking my blood pressure. Just calm...
As said in the other thread, I am comming off the injection. I don't know what happend this time around but it messed my head up completely and truley and made me into a total arsehole.
Giving a body and mind a rest
Good Ol' Yarn For Hair
422 posts
Location: Atlanta, GA, USA
422 posts
Location: Atlanta, GA, USA
Posted:
TANGENT:
Damnit! I was doing so well! lol.... I tried to explain the game to my brother.... he didn't get it at all, so I take great relish in telling him every couple of days that he's lost.
ON TOPIC:
Doc, I really don't understand what everyone was saying that you were being condescending (god, I wish I could spell today). You were stating an observance in regards to a greater noted percentage of women who stated an overwhelmingly beneficial outcome to being on the pill.
Written by: Doc Lightning
Oh, and I just lost. :flee:
TANGENT:
Damnit! I was doing so well! lol.... I tried to explain the game to my brother.... he didn't get it at all, so I take great relish in telling him every couple of days that he's lost.
ON TOPIC:
Doc, I really don't understand what everyone was saying that you were being condescending (god, I wish I could spell today). You were stating an observance in regards to a greater noted percentage of women who stated an overwhelmingly beneficial outcome to being on the pill.
"So long and thanks for all the fish."
activist for HoPper liberation.
1,643 posts
Location: ffidrac
1,643 posts
Location: ffidrac
Posted:
I just noticed reading this thread how thing contraception wise seems to come pre-fixed with 'the' the pill, the injection... makes it sound strangely omnious and taboo... but i don't really know why i mention that, it's just a thought.
on topic: sounds like i'm a lucky [censored], because i've never had any problems with hormonal contraception at all... it doesn't make me more emotional, sick, gain weight, lose weight, spotty or anything, to the point where i do sometimes vaguely wonder if it actually does anything, and it does make periods so much lighter and less crampy and less messy generally, suits me sir!
but then everyone's bodies are different, you can't expect any drug to have the same effect on all people, and there is bound to be side effects of that kind when you are messing with hormones and stuff, but i don't suppose there's any way of being able to tell beforehand how it could affect someone, yet millions of women take it everyday because generally it does the job it's meant to.
I think you have to take responsibility for your own body, as you are the only person who can know it thoroughly, doctors have to see hundreds of different patients, and so they might make generalisations about women on the pill, because in most cases it works. but if you think something's not working for you, isn't it worth doing your own research into other possible methods, and talking them through with your doctor?
I just noticed reading this thread how thing contraception wise seems to come pre-fixed with 'the' the pill, the injection... makes it sound strangely omnious and taboo... but i don't really know why i mention that, it's just a thought.
on topic: sounds like i'm a lucky [censored], because i've never had any problems with hormonal contraception at all... it doesn't make me more emotional, sick, gain weight, lose weight, spotty or anything, to the point where i do sometimes vaguely wonder if it actually does anything, and it does make periods so much lighter and less crampy and less messy generally, suits me sir!
but then everyone's bodies are different, you can't expect any drug to have the same effect on all people, and there is bound to be side effects of that kind when you are messing with hormones and stuff, but i don't suppose there's any way of being able to tell beforehand how it could affect someone, yet millions of women take it everyday because generally it does the job it's meant to.
I think you have to take responsibility for your own body, as you are the only person who can know it thoroughly, doctors have to see hundreds of different patients, and so they might make generalisations about women on the pill, because in most cases it works. but if you think something's not working for you, isn't it worth doing your own research into other possible methods, and talking them through with your doctor?
Aurinko freedom agreement reached 10th Sept 2006
if it makes no sense that's because it's NOn-sense.
GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
A number of people have said that they have trouble remembering the pill.
To them:
1) Put it next to your toothbrush. You brush your teeth every morning, right...?
2) NuvaRing is well-tolerated with the lowest dose of hormones because much of its effect is local, rather than systemic. Every patient I've managed to talk into this method so far has LOVED it and come back raving about it! Your mileage may vary, contents may settle with shipping, results not typical, etc...
3) Ortho-Evra is usually well-tolerated and is better for squeamish women who don't like needles and don't like the idea of sticking things into their bodies. It has been associated with increased blood clotting events in women who smoke and I will not prescribe it to a smoker. However, pregnancy is about 100 times more likely than this form of birth control to cause a clot. Also women have trouble with skin irritation and discoloration under the patch. And in spite of the claims of the company, I don't recommend it for athletes or women with very active lifestyles (camping trip guides, competitive swimmers, mud wrestlers, etc.)
4) Depo-Provera is now available as a lower-dose subcutaneous (below the skin) injection rather than the intramuscular injection. It's one of those birth control methods that women either love...or completely hate. I always cringe whenever I prescribe it because I don't know if she's going to come back and hug me or slap me.
So in regards to Depo-Provera...
The good:
One injection every 12 weeks. No pills to remember.
Progestin-only, so no clotting issues.
Keeps patients going to the doctor regularly so that they don't fall through the healthcare maintenance cracks.
About half of women don't menstruate on it and the other half menstruate once every 3 months.
The bad:
One injection every 12 weeks. So you have to go the doctor every 3 months.
Half of women don't menstruate on it and the other half menstruate every 3 months.
Spotting is common.
There's an association with osteoporosis.
The ugly:
Average weight gain is 5 pounds. Unfortunately, most women don't gain any weight...but women who already have weight issues REALLY gain weight.
Some women get mood swings and emotional issues. And I mean ugly ones. And then they come into my office...and they're not happy with me. And I'm just a poor gay boy. 
If it doesn't work for you it takes about 6-9 months for your body to return to normal.
A number of people have said that they have trouble remembering the pill.
To them:
1) Put it next to your toothbrush. You brush your teeth every morning, right...?
2) NuvaRing is well-tolerated with the lowest dose of hormones because much of its effect is local, rather than systemic. Every patient I've managed to talk into this method so far has LOVED it and come back raving about it! Your mileage may vary, contents may settle with shipping, results not typical, etc...
3) Ortho-Evra is usually well-tolerated and is better for squeamish women who don't like needles and don't like the idea of sticking things into their bodies. It has been associated with increased blood clotting events in women who smoke and I will not prescribe it to a smoker. However, pregnancy is about 100 times more likely than this form of birth control to cause a clot. Also women have trouble with skin irritation and discoloration under the patch. And in spite of the claims of the company, I don't recommend it for athletes or women with very active lifestyles (camping trip guides, competitive swimmers, mud wrestlers, etc.)
4) Depo-Provera is now available as a lower-dose subcutaneous (below the skin) injection rather than the intramuscular injection. It's one of those birth control methods that women either love...or completely hate. I always cringe whenever I prescribe it because I don't know if she's going to come back and hug me or slap me.
So in regards to Depo-Provera...
The good:
One injection every 12 weeks. No pills to remember. Progestin-only, so no clotting issues. Keeps patients going to the doctor regularly so that they don't fall through the healthcare maintenance cracks. About half of women don't menstruate on it and the other half menstruate once every 3 months.The bad:
One injection every 12 weeks. So you have to go the doctor every 3 months. Half of women don't menstruate on it and the other half menstruate every 3 months. Spotting is common. There's an association with osteoporosis.The ugly:
Average weight gain is 5 pounds. Unfortunately, most women don't gain any weight...but women who already have weight issues REALLY gain weight. Some women get mood swings and emotional issues. And I mean ugly ones. And then they come into my office...and they're not happy with me. And I'm just a poor gay boy. If it doesn't work for you it takes about 6-9 months for your body to return to normal. -Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
Good Ol' Yarn For Hair
422 posts
Location: Atlanta, GA, USA
422 posts
Location: Atlanta, GA, USA
Posted:
*giggle* A former roommate of mine actually got pregnant three times while on Depo Provera. I guess she counts as the advertised 0.3% of women with reported pregnancy during usage of Depo Provera and maintaining her schedule appropriately for her injections.
*giggle* A former roommate of mine actually got pregnant three times while on Depo Provera. I guess she counts as the advertised 0.3% of women with reported pregnancy during usage of Depo Provera and maintaining her schedule appropriately for her injections.
"So long and thanks for all the fish."
BRONZE Member
old hand
1,107 posts
Location: In a test pit, Mackay, Australia
old hand
1,107 posts
Location: In a test pit, Mackay, Australia
Posted:
@ Birgit; Yasmin is indeed one of the more expensive pills, in the UK apparently you have to ask for that particular brand as the NHS doesn't like paying for it. However, a lot of women have been put on it as it's one of the newest, thought to have very few side effects and contains a mild diuretic which means no weight gain (it's not recommended for those with kidney problems though). I think it's fantastic and gladly pay the $20 per pack price as I'm willing to take it and it's heaps cheaper than a baby.
A while back there was talk about making UK women pay the prescription fee for the pill, is that still the case? It's worthwhile getting hold of the BNP book which lists all the drugs under their tradenames and active ingredients, plus it has the drug cost there. If the cost is less than the prescription charge ask for it on a private prescription and you pay that cost only.
Oh, and if you tend to forget pills, carry a spare pack in your handbag at all times, or keep one at work.
@ Birgit; Yasmin is indeed one of the more expensive pills, in the UK apparently you have to ask for that particular brand as the NHS doesn't like paying for it. However, a lot of women have been put on it as it's one of the newest, thought to have very few side effects and contains a mild diuretic which means no weight gain (it's not recommended for those with kidney problems though). I think it's fantastic and gladly pay the $20 per pack price as I'm willing to take it and it's heaps cheaper than a baby.
A while back there was talk about making UK women pay the prescription fee for the pill, is that still the case? It's worthwhile getting hold of the BNP book which lists all the drugs under their tradenames and active ingredients, plus it has the drug cost there. If the cost is less than the prescription charge ask for it on a private prescription and you pay that cost only.
Oh, and if you tend to forget pills, carry a spare pack in your handbag at all times, or keep one at work.
There is a slight possibility that I am not actually right all of the time.
GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
Yeah, progestin-only methods are good for nursing mothers and women with blood clotting issues...but they are the least effective.
Although that's the first pregnancy I've ever heard of while someone was on a progestin-only preparation.
Written by: Kathain_Bowen
*giggle* A former roommate of mine actually got pregnant three times while on Depo Provera. I guess she counts as the advertised 0.3% of women with reported pregnancy during usage of Depo Provera and maintaining her schedule appropriately for her injections.
Yeah, progestin-only methods are good for nursing mothers and women with blood clotting issues...but they are the least effective.
Although that's the first pregnancy I've ever heard of while someone was on a progestin-only preparation.
-Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
SILVER Member
All the neurotic makings of America's lesser known sweetheart
9,831 posts
Location: body in Las Vegas, heart all around the world, USA
All the neurotic makings of America's lesser known sweetheart
9,831 posts
Location: body in Las Vegas, heart all around the world, USA
Posted:
Wow, so many thoughts, lemme see if I can remember them all....
Ok, first, I think it's incredibly important for both women and their doctors to be willing and able to talk openly and honestly about their fears, questions, thoughts, whatever. I've found it's a common taboo with women in particular (although men experience it too) that they have this fear to ask all the questions. Why? Fear of looking stupid, fear of taking up the doctor's time, fear of talking openly, etc etc etc. I have been INCREDIBLY fortunate with my past OB/GYN who put me on the pill cause I had immense fears about it. I had irregular periods and horrible cramping during ovulation from about a year before I actually got my period until I started taking the pill (about 8 years). I had this notion that I was screwing with nature, that if my body didn't want to menstruate regularly then so be it. I didn't want to mess with that. I talked with my doctor at length about all these fears and questions and thoughts, and she was so patient with me, spent a long time answering every question I had, addressing every fear. It helped me so much to make an informed decision and help alleviate all the concerns I had. Plus, I think by giving her a thorough history of my menstrual problems, I feel she was even more able to match the right medication for me. I've been on the same pill now since I started taking it 5 years ago, and I love it. I have less mood swings and I can calculate exactly when my "bad" days will be (I was all over the map before). I no longer have cramping AT ALL (that was worth it in itself because it used to get so bad the first time it happened we thought my appendix had burst...several tests and invasive procedures later the doctor tells me I'm ovulating....talk about embarrassment for a 13 year old girl!). My periods come regularly and last for only a few days, and they're never very heavy at all.
I think your form of contraception needs to be tailored to who you are, and in order to do that, you have to be honest and open with your doctor. I found the same thing to be true when I went on Zoloft. Ironically being a psychologist, I was terrified of taking medication. But I suffered from some pretty severe depression. When I finally decided to see a psychiatrist, I talked to her at length about my family history, what medications other family members have taken, the precise symptoms, and all the fears I had about taking it. And as with the pill, I KNOW for a fact that giving my psychiatrist all that information helped me know better which medication to try me on. And as with the pill, it worked like a charm and I've been on it since.
I know some people have brought up the notion of taking the pill and then going off, and their periods actually becoming even better after coming off the pill. Not that I necessarily have any medical knowledge or proof to back this up, but I've always thought about medication helping our bodies "kick start" into what it's "supposed" to be doing (I do use that term lightly, because you never know). Just like many people might take an anti-depressant for a short while until they are feeling stable and then wean themselves off it successfully, I wouldn't be suprised the same couldn't be similar for the pill. Obviously I'm talking about this in relation to regulating your period and stabilizing some of the PMS symptoms as well, and NOT as a form of birth control. But I've always wondered if that's possible or factual.
Wow, so many thoughts, lemme see if I can remember them all....
Ok, first, I think it's incredibly important for both women and their doctors to be willing and able to talk openly and honestly about their fears, questions, thoughts, whatever. I've found it's a common taboo with women in particular (although men experience it too) that they have this fear to ask all the questions. Why? Fear of looking stupid, fear of taking up the doctor's time, fear of talking openly, etc etc etc. I have been INCREDIBLY fortunate with my past OB/GYN who put me on the pill cause I had immense fears about it. I had irregular periods and horrible cramping during ovulation from about a year before I actually got my period until I started taking the pill (about 8 years). I had this notion that I was screwing with nature, that if my body didn't want to menstruate regularly then so be it. I didn't want to mess with that. I talked with my doctor at length about all these fears and questions and thoughts, and she was so patient with me, spent a long time answering every question I had, addressing every fear. It helped me so much to make an informed decision and help alleviate all the concerns I had. Plus, I think by giving her a thorough history of my menstrual problems, I feel she was even more able to match the right medication for me. I've been on the same pill now since I started taking it 5 years ago, and I love it. I have less mood swings and I can calculate exactly when my "bad" days will be (I was all over the map before). I no longer have cramping AT ALL (that was worth it in itself because it used to get so bad the first time it happened we thought my appendix had burst...several tests and invasive procedures later the doctor tells me I'm ovulating....talk about embarrassment for a 13 year old girl!). My periods come regularly and last for only a few days, and they're never very heavy at all.
I think your form of contraception needs to be tailored to who you are, and in order to do that, you have to be honest and open with your doctor. I found the same thing to be true when I went on Zoloft. Ironically being a psychologist, I was terrified of taking medication. But I suffered from some pretty severe depression. When I finally decided to see a psychiatrist, I talked to her at length about my family history, what medications other family members have taken, the precise symptoms, and all the fears I had about taking it. And as with the pill, I KNOW for a fact that giving my psychiatrist all that information helped me know better which medication to try me on. And as with the pill, it worked like a charm and I've been on it since.
I know some people have brought up the notion of taking the pill and then going off, and their periods actually becoming even better after coming off the pill. Not that I necessarily have any medical knowledge or proof to back this up, but I've always thought about medication helping our bodies "kick start" into what it's "supposed" to be doing (I do use that term lightly, because you never know). Just like many people might take an anti-depressant for a short while until they are feeling stable and then wean themselves off it successfully, I wouldn't be suprised the same couldn't be similar for the pill. Obviously I'm talking about this in relation to regulating your period and stabilizing some of the PMS symptoms as well, and NOT as a form of birth control. But I've always wondered if that's possible or factual.
I was always scared with my mother's obsession with the good scissors. It made me wonder if there were evil scissors lurking in the house somewhere.
Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons for you are crunchy and good with ketchup.
**giggles**
SILVER Member
100 characters max...
2,996 posts
Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
100 characters max...
2,996 posts
Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
Posted:
Hi Kathain_Bowen.
Its probably not far to say that "everyone" was saying that Doc was being condescending. I think the only person on record saying that was me. I was quite specifically referring to the tone used in the telling of a story in a later post, rather than the original post about the positive experiences of several women.
As per my post starting this thread, my intent was to start an open conversation about what I see as a lack of knowledge about emotional side effects of the pill, both for women and for medical professionals. I also wanted to explain very exactly what had sparked this and be clear that I was speaking from my experience and about how I had interpreted what was said. I can only speak for me and what I thought and felt.
Doc has certainly cleared the air. And I think there is an interesting conversation going on.
So back to it...
Written by: Kathain_Bowen
Doc, I really don't understand what everyone was saying that you were being condescending (god, I wish I could spell today). You were stating an observance in regards to a greater noted percentage of women who stated an overwhelmingly beneficial outcome to being on the pill.
Hi Kathain_Bowen.
Its probably not far to say that "everyone" was saying that Doc was being condescending. I think the only person on record saying that was me. I was quite specifically referring to the tone used in the telling of a story in a later post, rather than the original post about the positive experiences of several women.
As per my post starting this thread, my intent was to start an open conversation about what I see as a lack of knowledge about emotional side effects of the pill, both for women and for medical professionals. I also wanted to explain very exactly what had sparked this and be clear that I was speaking from my experience and about how I had interpreted what was said. I can only speak for me and what I thought and felt.
Doc has certainly cleared the air. And I think there is an interesting conversation going on.
So back to it...
It was a day for screaming at inanimate objects.
What this calls for is a special mix of psychology and extreme violence...
SILVER Member
enthusiast
271 posts
Location: Bradford *rolls eyes*, United Kingdom
enthusiast
271 posts
Location: Bradford *rolls eyes*, United Kingdom
Posted:
Wow, all that is sooooo helpful...
I never really knew much about the patch, and it seems like such a good idea.... Also a good motivation for me to quit smoking i guess...
there's tonnes of knowledge and stuff there, so i guess it's off to the doctors for me!
Wow, all that is sooooo helpful...
I never really knew much about the patch, and it seems like such a good idea.... Also a good motivation for me to quit smoking i guess...
there's tonnes of knowledge and stuff there, so i guess it's off to the doctors for me!
BRONZE Member
Insert Champagne Here
13,215 posts
Location: without class distinction, Australia
Insert Champagne Here
13,215 posts
Location: without class distinction, Australia
Posted:
Thanks guys! One of my civillian friends needed some advice regarding the pill so I linked her to this, and she is now knows the options open to her and is going to chat to her GP
Thanks guys! One of my civillian friends needed some advice regarding the pill so I linked her to this, and she is now knows the options open to her and is going to chat to her GP
i would have changed ***** to phallus, and claire to petey Petey
Rougie: but that's what I'm doing here
Arnwyn: what letting me adjust myself in your room?..don't you dare quote that on HoP...
Good Ol' Yarn For Hair
422 posts
Location: Atlanta, GA, USA
422 posts
Location: Atlanta, GA, USA
Posted:
She is, and will always be, a rare person. An absolute sweetheart, but a total medical mystery in the long haul and thoroughly accident proned. The ER staff stopped believing us when we had to bring her in every month or two because she'd "fallen down the stairs," until she had a full blown seizure at work. Their tune changed quite quickly that day to the number of she'd been having a mini-seizures that had been causing her to be accident proned.
I do believe, in the end, the popular thoery scapegoat was "your antibiotics and seizure medications are conflicting with your Depo Provera treatments."
Don't ask me. I'm not a doctor. I'm an artist; I make pretty pictures. ^-^
Written by: Doc Lightning
Although that's the first pregnancy I've ever heard of while someone was on a progestin-only preparation.
She is, and will always be, a rare person. An absolute sweetheart, but a total medical mystery in the long haul and thoroughly accident proned. The ER staff stopped believing us when we had to bring her in every month or two because she'd "fallen down the stairs," until she had a full blown seizure at work. Their tune changed quite quickly that day to the number of she'd been having a mini-seizures that had been causing her to be accident proned.
I do believe, in the end, the popular thoery scapegoat was "your antibiotics and seizure medications are conflicting with your Depo Provera treatments."
Don't ask me. I'm not a doctor. I'm an artist; I make pretty pictures. ^-^
"So long and thanks for all the fish."
GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
Actually, that's a very likely explanation. Contraception failures DO happen with seizure meds because they increase the metabolism of the hormones.
Written by: Kathain_Bowen
I do believe, in the end, the popular thoery scapegoat was "your antibiotics and seizure medications are conflicting with your Depo Provera treatments."
Actually, that's a very likely explanation. Contraception failures DO happen with seizure meds because they increase the metabolism of the hormones.
-Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
SILVER Member
member
162 posts
Location: Groningen, Netherlands
member
162 posts
Location: Groningen, Netherlands
Posted:
I want to thank you all for starting this thread
I've been taking the Pill for about 4 weeks now, and since then I started feeling depressed and not myself anymore... Even some friends were worried, about me not being the happy girl I was before...
Before I read this, I was not aware of the possibillity of getting depressed and stuff when you take the Pill. Even my doctor hadn't told me about it. When I read this I started thinking and came to the conclusion that when I had started taking the Pill I also started feeling depressed...
I made again an appointment with my doctor and on the phone she told me it was indeed a reasonable possibility, but she had to hear some more...
Hope something will change and I will feel happy again
I really, really want to thank you all
I want to thank you all for starting this thread
I've been taking the Pill for about 4 weeks now, and since then I started feeling depressed and not myself anymore... Even some friends were worried, about me not being the happy girl I was before...
Before I read this, I was not aware of the possibillity of getting depressed and stuff when you take the Pill. Even my doctor hadn't told me about it. When I read this I started thinking and came to the conclusion that when I had started taking the Pill I also started feeling depressed...
I made again an appointment with my doctor and on the phone she told me it was indeed a reasonable possibility, but she had to hear some more...
Hope something will change and I will feel happy again
I really, really want to thank you all
Sunshine or rain, it's not anymore the same...
GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
Laihia,
For you I would suggest either the NuvaRing or Yasmin. Probably the best two choices for patients who don't tolerate other contraception well.
Laihia,
For you I would suggest either the NuvaRing or Yasmin. Probably the best two choices for patients who don't tolerate other contraception well.
-Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
BRONZE Member
veteran
1,247 posts
Location: lost, Canada
veteran
1,247 posts
Location: lost, Canada
Posted:
Have not tried it myself, but friends who have had many birth control challenges rave, absolutely rave, about the Nuvaring.
Wonder why it is so little known? The friends using it started after one frustrated person did a bunch of internet research,thought it looked like the most differnt from anything she had already tried, then brought it to the doctor herself, and said I want to try this one... He hardly knew about it, but got himself informed pretty fast, and is now also a big fan.
Have not tried it myself, but friends who have had many birth control challenges rave, absolutely rave, about the Nuvaring.
Wonder why it is so little known? The friends using it started after one frustrated person did a bunch of internet research,thought it looked like the most differnt from anything she had already tried, then brought it to the doctor herself, and said I want to try this one... He hardly knew about it, but got himself informed pretty fast, and is now also a big fan.
"God *was* my co-pilot, but then we crashed, and I had to eat him..."
GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
The reason is because the dose of hormone is so low because its effect is almost topical. It's local. Because it sits in the vagina, a lot of the hormonal effect is directly on the uterus.
Doesn't make much sense to me, at first, but that's how the OB/GYN's explain it.
The reason is because the dose of hormone is so low because its effect is almost topical. It's local. Because it sits in the vagina, a lot of the hormonal effect is directly on the uterus.
Doesn't make much sense to me, at first, but that's how the OB/GYN's explain it.
-Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
BRONZE Member
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
Posted:
Just out of interest - I've heard that it's quite common for womens' sense of smell to be much better during their periods, it certainly is for me. That effect was not half as strong on the pill, but now I'm not taking it anymore it's come back with a vengeance. Which means that things like public transport can become horrortrips if I sit in the same half of the bus as a smelly person, and opening the fridge makes me lose my appetite (no there's no mouldy stuff in it, but all the mixed smells of the different things are so overwhelming, it's like walking into a wall of smells!).
Anyone else get something like that?
Just out of interest - I've heard that it's quite common for womens' sense of smell to be much better during their periods, it certainly is for me. That effect was not half as strong on the pill, but now I'm not taking it anymore it's come back with a vengeance. Which means that things like public transport can become horrortrips if I sit in the same half of the bus as a smelly person, and opening the fridge makes me lose my appetite (no there's no mouldy stuff in it, but all the mixed smells of the different things are so overwhelming, it's like walking into a wall of smells!).
Anyone else get something like that?
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