Contraceptives

When you ask your doctor for a prescription for your oral contraceptive, is it a quick ‘in and out’ visit? Are you in that clinic because it’s the closest to home or because old doc Brenchley has been the family physician since your mum took you there for your first measles jab? Or maybe you feel really uncomfortable about asking for contraceptives and have no idea where to go?

It’s time to be truthful, girls, the best person to assist you with your sexual health may NOT be the doctor who gave you your last prescription for antibiotics. Let’s face it, you shop around for the best insurance, pair of shoes and car so where your body and your health are concerned why would you not do the same?

It is SO important that you feel comfortable and relaxed with the person with whom you are discussing this most intimate topic. You should trust and have confidence in the person who is ‘partnering’ you in decisions that will affect your reproductive health and sex life. This new ‘relationship’ with your doctor is important- you want to invest in a ‘gold plated’ one as it will affect your personal lifestyle, your future and your ultimate happiness.

Ask yourself honestly- would I feel more at ease with a female doctor? Some clinics have doctors who specialise in reproductive health (gynaecologists) and also childbirth (obstetricians) Nurse practitioners can also write prescriptions and counsel you and many make great ‘confidantes’. YOU have the right to CHOOSE whom to trust this important aspect of your life to.

If you’re not sure where to go, ask a female friend or colleague for help or ring around some family planning clinics till you like the sound of a friendly, efficient voice on the other end of the phone! Do an internet search for your area. Check out health insurance plans and what costs you are liable for. Don’t feel that you are ‘locked in’ for life at one clinic -if you don’t feel comfortable after your first consultation, trust your intuition, go somewhere else! If you are a college student, find out who has a good reputation at the college clinic, what you are covered for and what medications, including oral contraceptives, will cost you.

When you make that first appointment to talk about birth control and oral contraceptives, check to see if you need to book a longer session. It’s a good idea to go between menstrual periods in case you need a pelvic exam. Oral contraceptives do not protect against HIV/STD’s so pick up some condoms on your way home too.
Information that your doctor will need if you ask for oral contraceptives (if you type it up once, it’s easy to update anytime and you’ll always have it handy if you change doctors)

• your medical and family’s medical history- (include all your close relations, your parents and siblings but also grandparents, aunts and uncles.)
• do you or your family members smoke, drink alcohol, or have specific medical conditions?
• do you have allergies?
• are you currently taking any medications (both over the counter and prescribed)?
• what is your menstruation history? (when did you have your first period? How long do they last? Blood flow- is it heavy, irregular? Are you periods painful ?)

If you use a diaphragm or cervical cap take it with you and don’t forget your medical insurance plan if you have one.

It’s YOUR body and your health and you have the right to have all your questions answered. The more information you can get the easier it is for you make a decision. The last thing you need is to feel embarassed, put off or intimidated by a health care provider who is eager to move on to the next patient. BE PREPARED for the consult before you leave home. Nervousness often makes us forget things so write down some ‘headings’ to remind you of the main things you want to find out.

Whether you are a ‘first timer’ about to begin your sexual journey or a seasoned veteran who could tell a few stories, it’s never too late to embrace the magic of your feminine power! Go forth, be safe and be protected.

For detailed information about different types of oral contraceptive pill, just click on each brand name below: Alesse, Desogen, Levlen, Mircette, Ovral and Ortho Tricyclen