Contraception

[nicnicnic]

Ive been on the pill for about 5 years becuase I have heavy periods. The problem is that Im getting more and more forgetful, so havn't been taking my pill regularly, and so stopped taking it completely about 2 months ago. In that time Ive lost weight, and stopped getting headaches, but I havnt really had a period yet. I've switched brands afew times, but not really found one that Im compatable with, and now that I've lost weight and my appetite had reduced alot, so I dont want to start taking it again.

I've been looking at other methods of contraception, and was wondering what you thought to the implant? Does anyone have experience of it? Obviously I know that it doesnt protect against STI's. I just dont really know what to do. Im 19

[dotjhawkes]

One good idea would be to post a question asking for advice in the Body and Soul section of this sight.

[Robert G]

Another would be to seek expert medical advice. Start with your GP.

[diana.m]

What type of contraceptive pill were you using, combined pill or progesterone only? Have you had unprotected sex because you could be pregnant, not having had a period for 2months, and as you mentioned you normally have heavy periods. It is possible to loose weight in early pregnancy through lack of appetite.

The implant contains progesterone. Most GP surgeries have leaflets on available contraception, you could pick up some leaflets and then discuss which method will suit you best with your GP.

[crj1978]

I've had the implant Implanon in for just over a year now and haven't had any problems with it. It can make you put on weight as a side effect but doesn't affect everybody and I haven't had this problem (touch wood!). It doesn't protect against STD's though, as you pointed out. Speak to your GP about it. They should give you a bit of a councelling session before they arrange a date to have it inserted anyway, so you get lots of info about it beforehand. It stays in for 3 years unless you want it removed beforehand, and in some cases your periods may stop altogether, become irregular, or carry on as normal, everyone is different. I found mine took a while to settle down but now have no problems. Hope this is helpful!