Expert: Diane Cheryl - 11/14/2007

Question
I have decided to stop taking birth control pills (after 11 years).  I think that I am going to speak with my Doctor about going with a non-hormonal IUD.  In the mean time, is it OK to stop my pills mid-pack?  I really want to get off the hormones ASAP (these pills were prescribed to me only to serve as birth control).

Answer
Hi April,

Thanks for your question. I urge you to consult with your physician about this health decision as I am not a medical doctor. However, I have done some research on this subject and I found some information about the copper IUD (non-hormonal). There are some risks and side effects to this such as PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease), perforation of the uterus and expulsion in which the IUD falls out partially or completely. I congratulate your decision on going off the pills. Have you checked into NFP (Natural Family Planning)? I can't tell you whether to stop the pills mid-pack so like I said, talk to your doctor. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,
Diane Cheryl
DCHERYL51@yahoo.com