[Champagne_Supernova]

Hi everyone!
I'm new to the forums, and I just wanted to post a question (or a few!). I just recently stopped taking my birth control pills (Junel Fe, on them for 4 years), because it was giving me VERY high blood pressure (200/100), along with some other pretty crappy other side effects (dryness, anxiety, temperature intolerance). and now, my boyfriend and I are using condoms (not a fan), so my questions to you ladies are:
1. Since right now, while I wait for my body to "regulate" it's hormones, we're using condoms, which do you suggest, for the most "barely there" feeling, while not being so thin, they break easily?

2. what birth control do you know of that doesn't have a risk of high blood pressure,or can be taken by those with high blood pressure?

3. Do you suggest IUDs, or implanon? I'm hesitant because I know a few people who have had REALLY TERRIBLE experiences with IUDs, and it just makes me nervous.

Thanks in advance! Hope to hear from you all soon!
-Supernova

[jinxd]

The hormonal methods with less risk of causing increased blood pressure are the Implanon and Depo Provera. I had horrible experiences on both. Depo caused my weight to balloon from 115 lbs to 165 lbs in less than 3 months. I had no sex drive and my hair started falling out. It took 18 months after my last shot for the hormones to wear off.

I now have an IUD (the Paragard) that is copper and has no hormones in it. Its more effective than any other method and getting one in isn't really a big deal (and trust me I am a huge baby when it comes to any kind of pain or discomfort). Just keep in mind that you might have some unusual bleeding for the first six weeks afterwards, but that will stop. I love that this will last 10 years, and I don't even have to think about it. I check the strings after my period is over every month. They have stayed in place and I've had it now for two years.

[naturallyfab87]

Hi,

From my experience any birth control you may take might cause the same side effects or new ones. I have gone thru at least 5 different birth controls (all pill form) and had side effects like low sex drive, irritation during and after sex and even when i didn’t have sex, moody, felt tired all the time, and gained weight. To be honest birth control is just not for everyone and I am one of those people. I have heard many stories about the depo shot and IUDs and witnessed the side effects of both which have kept me away from both of them. Whenever you are introducing something new to your body or altering your hormones you have to expect some not so satisfying changes.

My husband and I also resulted to using condoms and trust me I was looking for anything else i can use other than condoms because of the thought of how messy it might be or how I would hate the feeling or feel nothing at all. We did try to use the Encare Vaginal Contraceptive inserts and that was extremely messy and thank goodness neither of us felt the burning that everyone else seemed to have when you read reviews on it. So Yes we chose using the condoms and honestly its been awesome.

We at first used the Skyn brand which was HORRIBLE Lol it was so unenjoyable. Then he bought durex which was okay but not so good. Then we tried the Trojan and went for the pleasure pack which is amazing. So maybe you and your boyfriend should try those and if you have already and didn’t like the results then maybe seeing if the Vaginal over the counter inserts or sponges might be the best for both of you.

[Terra84]

I am on the nexplanon & I don't have any side effects & my boyfriend & I don't use condoms as I don't like them & my birth control is working very well because my boyfriend has came in me every time we have sex & I haven't gotten pregnant.

[Eeshan]

Certainly! I can provide information on different birth control methods, including intrauterine devices (IUDs), as well as implants.

1. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs):
   • IUDs are small, T-shaped devices made of plastic or copper that are inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
   • There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and non-hormonal (copper IUD).
   • Hormonal IUDs release progestin, a synthetic hormone, which thickens cervical mucus, inhibits sperm movement, and thins the lining of the uterus.
   • Copper IUDs work by releasing copper ions that create an environment toxic to sperm, preventing fertilization.
   • IUDs are highly effective, with a failure rate of less than 1%.
   • They can be used for long-term contraception, with hormonal IUDs lasting 3-5 years and copper IUDs lasting up to 10 years.
   • IUDs require a healthcare professional for insertion and removal.
2. Implants:
   • Implants are small, flexible rods about the size of a matchstick that are inserted under the skin, usually in the arm.
   • The most commonly used implant is the progestin-only implant, such as Nexplanon.
   • The implant releases a steady dose of progestin, preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus.
   • It provides long-term contraception, lasting up to three years.
   • Implants are highly effective, with a failure rate of less than 1%.
   • A healthcare professional is required for insertion and removal of the implant.

Other birth control methods include:

1. Oral contraceptives (the pill):
   • The pill contains synthetic hormones (estrogen and/or progestin) that prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus.
   • Pills need to be taken daily to maintain effectiveness.
   • There are different types of pills, including combination pills (containing both estrogen and progestin) and progestin-only pills.
   • The typical failure rate for oral contraceptives is around 0.3-9%.
2. Contraceptive patch:
   • The patch is a small adhesive patch that releases hormones (estrogen and progestin) through the skin into the bloodstream.
   • It needs to be replaced once a week for three weeks, followed by a patch-free week.
   • The typical failure rate for the patch is around 0.3-9%.

Remember that the effectiveness of any birth control method can vary depending on proper usage and individual factors. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the most suitable option for you.