Which contraception methods are best suited for me?
July 21, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Marie Czakaj
Dear gynecologist,
My name is Tina Mattes and I am reaching out to you with a question regarding contraception methods. I am 28 years old, have been in a stable relationship with my partner for two years, and we are happy together. We have decided together to opt for a long-term contraception method as we do not plan to have children and want to focus on our careers.
I have been taking the pill, but recently I have noticed an increase in side effects such as mood swings and weight gain. Therefore, I am looking for a different contraception method that suits me better. I have heard about various alternatives such as the contraceptive ring, the contraceptive patch, or the hormonal IUD, but I am unsure which method is best for me.
I am worried that I may face unpleasant side effects again or that the contraception may not be reliable enough if I choose the wrong method. Therefore, I would be very grateful if you could provide me with some recommendations and explain the pros and cons of the different contraception methods. Are there any specific aspects I should consider in my decision based on my age, health, and personal preferences?
I would appreciate your help in making my decision so that I can feel confident and choose the contraception method that is best for me. Thank you in advance for your support.
Best regards,
Tina Mattes
Dear Tina Mattes,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as a gynecologist. I am glad to hear that you and your partner have decided together on a long-term contraception method that fits your current life situation. It is important that you feel comfortable and safe with the chosen contraception method, so it is good that you are looking for alternatives to the pill if you are already experiencing side effects.
There are indeed many different contraception methods on the market, and it is important to choose the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences. Let me therefore explain the advantages and disadvantages of some common contraception methods:
1. Contraceptive ring: The contraceptive ring is inserted into the vagina once a month and continuously releases hormones to prevent pregnancy. Advantages include high reliability and ease of use. Disadvantages may include possible side effects such as headaches or breast tenderness.
2. Contraceptive patch: The contraceptive patch is applied to the skin once a week and also releases hormones. The advantage is easy application, while the disadvantage may be possible skin irritations at the patch site.
3. Hormonal intrauterine device (IUD): The hormonal IUD is inserted by a doctor into the uterus and releases hormones over a longer period of time. Advantages include long-lasting contraceptive effectiveness and low hormone dosage compared to the pill. Disadvantages may include breakthrough bleeding or pain during insertion.
It is important to consider personal aspects when choosing a contraception method. For example, you may prefer a method that does not require daily intake or is hormone-free. Your health and any pre-existing conditions also play a role in the selection.
I recommend making an appointment with your gynecologist to discuss your options and find the best contraception method for you together. Your doctor can also provide further information on the different methods and tailor the discussion to your individual needs.
I hope this information helps you in making your decision and finding the contraception method that is right for you. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best wishes for your future and your professional plans!
Best regards,
Marie Czakaj
