Expert: Diane Cheryl - 1/6/2010

Question
I will be 20 years old in a few days and am planning on setting up an appointment at my local clinic to get birth control. I do have worries about what type I should use though. I am almost 5'4 and a bit less than 100 pounds. I am not anorexic but I do have trouble gaining weight, I have never been above 100 pounds and when I do gain weight it seems to come right off. I am afraid that this may impact what kind of birth control I can use and am afraid of any kind of health risks that this might add to using the birth control.

Thanks in advance.

Answer
Dear Angela,

Thanks for your question. I have to ask you, is it really necessary for you to start birth control. There are many hormonal methods that can have side effects and risks. Have you done research about these problems? Oh, I see now that you do say that you are afraid of some kinds of health risks. That is why I ask, is it really necessary at this point of your life. I would like you to email me at CHERYL51@aol.com so we can talk privately by email. Hope to hear from you soon.

Diane Cheryl