Let's Talk About Birth Control

I believe, in my days of writing for my blog, I've never tackled such a taboo topic. Here's why I'm doing it:

a) Birth control for many people is necessary. Whether you're taking it to prevent pregnancy, aid acne, or treat ovarian cysts, it is a part of many women's lives.
b)Talking about birth control is important and it needs to happen more often.

I am no expert. I am no doctor, but I like to think I've got some advice that you'd want to get from a big sister about birth control. So, internet, although no one asked me, I'm going to talk about it anyways.

I have only ever used two methods of birth control; the pill and the IUD. I suppose there are about a hundred blog posts about the pill so let's talk IUD (intrauterine device). If it sounds scary to you, it's because it kind of is. Most IUDs are T-shaped pieces of plastic-like material that releases hormones and can last years without you having to do anything. That part doesn't sound so bad; a birth control method that you can have and essentially forget about? (Sounds breezy, but that's not quite all...)
IUDs are not zero-maintenance. If you choose this method, you have to do some preparing. Here are the questions I suggest you ask yourself before choosing an IUD.

1) Does my insurance cover the device? It's a costly little thing so call your insurance company and see what they cover. Also consider the appointment costs for the placement procedure.

2) Can I handle the pain? It hurts getting an IUD placed. It's not the worst pain I've ever felt but it is certainly not a cake walk. I've tried to think of a polite way to say this but there isn't. It feels like getting stabbed in your baby maker (but only for a second).

3) Will I feel okay with this device in my body? It can freak some people out to know that there's a foreign object in their uterus, a place that's meant to hold only natural things. If you know you won't care, more power to you!

4) Do I know the risks? They're real. They happen. Please read the pamphlet your doctor gives you front to back.

5) Am I comfortable with my body? If you refuse to use o.b. tampons (ones without a plastic/cardboard insert) because you're uncomfortable with your anatomy, either this isn't for you or you'll have to choose to get comfortable. Every month you have to check your cervix to assure your IUD is in place. It is very important (giving you a stern look right now). It's the only way you can be sure it's still where it needs to be.

6) Who will take me to my appointment to get my IUD? While you won't be under anesthesia for this procedure, you will be in some pain and will want to lay low afterwards. I'm truly glad I had a ride home (I almost vomited. It's cool, totally normal).

We are all really lucky to have so many options for birth control in our lifetime. It's absolutely normal to try a few options out until you land on what works for you. It could take a day, it could take a decade. But what matters is that we take care of ourselves.













Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. Please consult with yours before making your choice. I'm just here to give some honest anecdotes that may or may not help you relate a little bit to the ever-frustrating experience that is womanhood.