Expert: Marina - 10/10/2004

Question
There are numerous birth control options available & its not easy choosing what is right for me or the safest,regarding my health now & in years to come. Also,is any method guaranteed to be 100% effective to prevent pregnancy? My boyfriend & I have been using condoms(only)the past year.We just went thru a scare that was very emotionally & physically exhausting for me. I'm so relieved & thankful I'm not pregnant. We both love children,although we are at the ages of enjoying grandchildren & not becoming parents again.I will be 50 this week.I was having pregnancy symptoms & the many over-the-counter tests were negative. After an exam I was told I'm in perimenopause. Ive hesitant to use the "pill".Ive heard it can cause weight gain & although the % may be low also risk of strokes & heart attacks. Its also expensive month after month. In your opinion wouldnt the most reliable & safest precaution be a vasectomy? Thank you. Your time & expertise is greatly appreciated. I look forward to hearing from you. Also.....do you have knowledge regarding perimenopause? If so,I would like to ask a few questions. Have a nice evening.

Answer
No method of birth control is absolutely 100% efficient in preventing pregnancy.

Usually the pill is not the most recommended birth control for women over 45, because of the increased breast cancer risk and increase in blood pressure which the pill causes.

I think vasectomy sounds like a good idea for you two. It is very reliable and has virtually no side effects.

Unfortunately I have not very much knowledge regarding menopause, but perhaps Catherine Martin can help you? Visit http://www.allexperts.com/getExpert.asp?Category=3228

Good luck and happy 50th birthday!

Celine