Expert: Marina - 9/2/2004

Question
do you have any suggestions of different methods of birth control that may also be effective?

Thank you for your help.
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Followup To
Question -
I have been on the pill for about 15 years.  In the last year or so I have been spotting alot. Lately it has been for a week or so before I get my period and  I get sharp pains in my lower back.  I have changed to a few different pills and the same thing keeps happening and I never miss a pill either.  Is this caused by the pill or could their maybe something else wrong?  I have thought about going off of the pill but do not know what else to try.
Answer -
Unfortunately spotting is common in women who have used hormonal birth control for a long time.

Have you tried a brand with a higher hormone dose? That should help. If not, I see no other solution than going off the pill and trying an other contraceptive.

Celine  

Answer
If you still are interested in hormonal birth control the shot or the implant are very reliable methods. Unfortunately they are known for causing spotting.

As you have used birth control pills for 15 years I guess you are not very young, so I think that an IUD (hormonal or non-hormonal) may be the best option for you. It is very reliable.

If you have sex with several partners I recommend using a condom or femidom.

Finally there is the natural contraceptive methods. If you are interested in learning more about that I will tell you more in another follow-up. It is also very reliable if you follow the rules. The positive thing about this method is that it is 100% natural and has no side effects!

Good luck!

Celine