Talking to your Doctor
What to expect
Whenever you see your doctor, your visit is treated with the utmost confidentiality. Everything that you discuss is kept private between the two of you. You can usually ask to see a female doctor, if you would prefer to. Your doctor is there to help you. He/she will offer the best advice that they can, and can help you to choose which contraceptive option is right for you. Remember, it may be your first time, so you may feel embarrassed at first, but your doctor has been in this situation many times before and knows exactly what to do.
To help decide what contraceptive method is best for you, your doctor will ask you questions about your sexual activity, your lifestyle, and whether you've got any current illnesses. They may also have some helpful leaflets to provide additional, useful information.
If you would prefer not to see your regular doctor there are clinics set up specifically to assist with contraception, known as family planning clinics. You should check local information, using the phone book and internet, to find out what places are available to you in your area.
The importance of regular check-ups
It is important to visit your doctor regularly to ensure that your chosen contraceptive is working well for you and to monitor your health. If you are experiencing any side effects or discomfort, you should visit your doctor as soon as you can to discuss your symptoms.
Top 10 questions you shouldn't be afraid to ask
Your healthcare professional will consider many factors when they are discussing contraception options with you, including:-
- Age
- Relationship status
- Health
- General lifestyle
- Family medical history
However, here are 10 questions that you may want to ask if you still feel unsure about the right choice for you.
- How many methods of contraception are there and what are their pros and cons?
- I am not planning on having children for years, what contraceptive options are good for me?
- Are there particular contraceptive pills that would suit me more than others and why?
- What are the side-effects that I should be mindful of with the different forms of contraception?
- If I am not getting on with my contraceptive, how long should I try to stick with it before changing?
- If I don't opt for a hormone based contraceptive, what other alternatives are available and how effective are they?
- Do I have to wait for the first day of my period to start contraception or can I start immediately?
- If I ever want to get pregnant when should I stop my contraceptive?
- Are there any natural methods of contraception and how effective are they?
- What should I do if I think my contraception method has failed?
Click here to download a printable version of these questions
Know your birth control options
When it comes to contraception, many women know at least something about the pill and condoms. But there is actually a wide range of options available. Each method has advantages and disadvantages.
The method you choose will depend on many things including the recommendations of your healthcare professional (usually a doctor or nurse).