Birth Control: Frequently Asked Questions

by Anai Rhoads

What causes the Pill to fail?

There are several reasons why the Pill can fail, or be less effective. Some medication prescribed by your doctor can have some adverse effects on the pill. Some known medications that can actually lessen the Pill's effectiveness are certain antibiotics (such as Zithromax for example), anti-inflammatory drugs, barbiturates, and epilepsy drugs (such as Dilantin). Make sure to tell your doctor which Pill you are currently taking, so that he or she may tell you if you will need to use another method until your treatment is completed.

Another factor is illness itself. Any illness can affect your immune system, which then affects the medications you are on, including the pill. Also, diarrhea or vomiting can lessen the absorption of the pill into your bloodstream.

And finally, skipping pills. Try to take your Pill everyday at the same time to help you remember. If you ever skip a pill, take 2 the following day. If you skip more than one day, stop that pack, and use a condom until your next cycle begins.

Does the Pill protect me against STDs?

No, the Pill does not protect you against any STDs. You can still contract chlamydia, herpes, HIV to name a few. Only proper use of a condom can protect you.

What is Depo-Provera and how does it work?

Depo-Provera is a synthetic hormone used to prevent pregnancy. It is injected into the buttock or arm. Its effectiveness only lasts 12 weeks and needs to be replaced then as well.

What is Norplant?

Norplant is a synthetic hormone containing progesterone used to prevent pregnancy. They are supplied as 6 match-sized sticks and last up to 5 years. The norplant sticks are surgically inserted into the upper arm, where they will remain for 5 years or until you decide you want to have children. Although this method was popular in the late 80's, its users dropped due to reports of scarring from removal.

Is Norplant safe?

There are risks to using Norplant. Discuss any symptoms with your doctor, so that he or she can determine if Norplant is right for you. The following is a list of things you should know before using Norplant: Never use if you have a history of: Blood clots, liver disease, uterine bleeding, high blood pressure, irregular periods, light periods, breast cancer, gall bladder problems, frequent headaches, seizures and are on certain seizure medication that can lessen the effects of Norplant, brain cancer, cholesterol problems, heart disease or heart valve problems.

What are the side effects of Norplant?

Not all of the following side effects can occur. You may get one, none or all. Make sure to contact your doctor if any side effects are worrying you.

• Depression
• Decreased sexual interest
• Longer periods OR lighter than normal periods
• For some women, a prolonged time between periods
• Some hair loss
• Weight loss or gain
• Severe to moderate acne

Side effects that warrant an immediate call to your doctor are blurred vision, irregular periods that are heavier than normal, severe headaches such as migraines, and abdominal pain. Any unusual swelling or redness near the site where the Norplant is placed should also be reported.

What causes condoms to tear?

Although condoms do not appear to tear easily, you would be surprised on how easily they do when in contact with certain chemicals.

The following are products you should NEVER use with a condom. It only takes 50-60 seconds of exposure to these products for the condom to go from 99% effectiveness to 20%.

• Mineral oil (can be found in your lotions, hand creams, make-up)
• Baby Oil
• Petroleum Jelly (Use KY Jelly instead)
• Vegetable Oil

Other reasons for a weak condom are:

• Expiration date
• Unrolling the condom before using
• Attempting to use the same condom more than once
• Attempting to continue intercourse with same condom after ejaculation
• Leaving the condom package exposed to sunlight, heat, unwrapped, or in wallet where it can be stretched and bent over time.

Pros and cons of IUD?
The pros of IUD is that is effective for up to six years.

Cons of IUD include: