Question:
Which birth control method is right for me?

I've been on the pill now for a year, and I have heard through many, that you shouldn't take the pill because it's absorbed in your jejeunum (spelling?) So, then what's left, I've heard that Depo shot causes weight gain, but will that matter after surgery? and I don't feel comfortable inserting or having anything "up there" I don't even use tampons! I am already VERY fertile, I have a 26 month old and a 1 year old you do the math lol. Please someone answer clearly, I have gotten quite confused over some of these answers about BC. Thanks.    — autlex65 (posted on February 7, 2002)

February 6, 2002
Hormonal birth control methods (the pill and the depo shot) are ineffective during periods of extreme weight loss. Fat cells are the precurser to the hormones in your body and burning those cells essentially "releases" these hormones. This makes the "balance" that hormonal birth control methods strive to achieve too hard to reach. Do not count on anything working!!!!!!! My recommendation, condoms condoms condoms and if you are as fertile as you sound, you might need some gel or something as well. Good luck!
   — Kierstin C.

February 7, 2002
Before surgery I had the norplant. A lot of people feel strongly about it (against it) because it's put in under the skin but it lasts for 5 years! Also, I loved it because my periods are usually AWFUL and I didn't have a period for a year! However, I got mine removed because I thought it was the reason I gained 45 lbs. I didn't bother thinking I had been on Jenny Craig and stopped and moved to another state! I guess I was in denial about the fact that I got bigger by myself. The nurse who inserted it told me that it has less side effects than the Depo because instead of getting a large dose and wearing off during 3 mos, it's a steady dose constantly. Just another thing for you to consider! Spermicidal jellys are good too and they help w/ lubrication however, they are better when used w/ a condom, sponge, or diaphram. Best of luck!
   — Amy E.

February 7, 2002
I am taking the Depo shot only because I'm waiting to have surgery and should my date come within the 3 month period I will be covered and won't have to worry about getting out to get my monthly shot of Lunelle. That is the method I will switch to once my surgery is done. Depo does make you gain weight, but I currently have problems with arth. in my knees and the depo shot seems to make it hurt a little worse the first 3 weeks after getting the shot. Lunelle is in my opinion the better of the two and I would recommend you get that after your surgery and you have recovered somewhat.
   — felicia W.

February 7, 2002
I have to laugh a bit at anyone who is afraid of getting pregnant and yet doesn't like sticking anything 'up there'! Huh? Anyway, when I was still married and secually active, I used an IUD. I loved it. The copper ones are very reliable and once they're in, are not noticeable. You only have to have them removed and a new one re-inserted every 7 years or so. It has been a while since I needed to use one, so maybe it's even longer than 7 years by now.
   — [Anonymous]