[jc16]

I got off the birth control pill today after 8 years of crazy side effects. I've finally gotten comfortable enough getting rid of the pill security blanket and I'm really hoping this will turn out to be the best decision.

I usually take my pill at 6 in the morning...around 10 I got this horrible headache and have had it ever since. Hope this isn't going to be an every day thing!!!! I kinda have a feeling I am in for a long and bumpy ride!

I have ordered the Taking Charge of Your Fertility book but it won't be in for another week. Im trying to learn whatever I can in the meantime. I kinda feel like I'm going at this completely blind right now, don't know what to expect, don't know if I can have sex with my husband, don't know if this headache will go away....
Can anybody tell me about your experience getting off the pill? Also, I've started looking at those charts on that books website. Does anybody use those? Do u do them manually or online? They look completely confusing, I'm really hoping the book will explain it all. I really want to learn about my cycle. I cant help being excited about it, especially since I feel this knowledge will not only help me stay safe when I want, but will probably also give me a lot of knowledge and power when we do decide to start a family. At the same time I'm completely freaked cuz I'm entering a whole new would! I'm really looking for some guidance, encouragement and advice! Thanks a bunch!

[caterpillar79]

I tried the BC pills and only lasted me two or three months because of frequent chest pains. I resorted to charting my BBT (Calendar method) and it worked out fine for me.

First thing to consider is whether or not you have a regular period. I have a regular period but the days are very long and variable (32 - 38 days), but my period per se only lasts for 3 days, so what my OB-GYN advised was that we do the full-on love-making (no pulling out) within 3-4 days after my period since it would be "safe". Done that for 5 years without any mishap, until I was held down/forced to be penetrated during my fertile time. Hence the tubal ligation, which I now regret. During the non-safe days, we did the pull - out and yes, it is very risky - so far though, I didn't conceive doing it. Doing the natural method requires a lot of discipline and self-control from both partners, especially the one "in great heat".

Tubal ligation is an option, but only if you do not intend to have kids at all. There is a possibility for reversal, but it would cost you so much more and the chances of ectopic pregnancies would be high. As I have read from your other thread, you cannot have IUD because of Cystitis, hence, the inclination to try natural methods. And like Mes_T suggested there, do get a fertility monitor and keep charting your cycle on a calendar. I literally had a calendar posted in our bedroom and marked the "SAFE" days so the husband could see for himself.

Hope this bit helps.

[Ccmama]

My second child was conceived with the "pull and pray" method of bc so I really can't recommend that! For natural, effective bc you might want to consider a barrier like a diaphragm or cervical cap.