What affects birth control?

Are you tired of feeling like your uterus is a rollercoaster? Well, buckle up because we’re about to dive into the wild world of birth control and all the things that affect it. But before we do, let’s just be clear: you are in control of your choices when it comes to contraception. You have every right to make informed decisions about what works best for you, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!

The Basics: What Is Birth Control Anyway?

For those who haven’t had the pleasure (or displeasure) of using birth control before, here’s a quick rundown:

  • Birth control refers to any method used to prevent pregnancy
  • There are many different types of birth control available on the market
  • Some methods require a prescription from a healthcare provider

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s get down to business.

Hormones: Friend or Foe?

When most people think of birth control, they probably think about hormonal methods like pills or patches. These types work by regulating estrogen and progesterone levels in order to prevent ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries). Sounds pretty straightforward, right? HAHAHA WRONG.

Turns out that hormones are as fickle as my ex-boyfriend Steve. Here are some factors that can throw them off their game:

Medications

Just like how mixing alcohol with some medications can lead to disastrous consequences (yeah I’m looking at you antibiotics), there are certain drugs that can interfere with hormonal contraceptives too. For example:

  • Antibiotics
  • Antifungal medications
  • Certain antidepressants

If you’re currently taking any medication (yes even those gummy vitamins count), double-check with your healthcare provider whether they could potentially interact with your form of birth control.

Underlying Health Conditions

Some health conditions can make hormonal birth control less effective, including:

  • Obesity
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

This isn’t to say that you can’t use hormonal contraception if you have these conditions! Just be aware that your healthcare provider may want to monitor you more closely or suggest alternative methods.

Lifestyle Factors

As much as we’d love for our bodies to stay constant, they’re influenced by a ton of external environmental factors. When it comes to hormones, here are some things they don’t like:

  • Smoking
  • Irregular sleeping patterns
  • Poor nutrition

I know what you’re thinking: “But I want my Starbucks Frappuccino and 3am Netflix binges!” Well friend, there’s no judgment here – just bear in mind that all those little choices can add up over time!

Non-Hormonal Options: Not All Heroes Wear Capes

Hormonal birth control gets a lot of attention because it’s the most commonly used method out there. But believe it or not, there are other options available too!

Barrier Methods

Have you ever heard the phrase “no glove no love”? Turns out that condoms (also known as rubber raincoats) actually do serve a dual purpose – protecting against both pregnancy and STIs! There are also female condoms available too – although let’s face it they look about as practical as squeezing into skinny jeans after Thanksgiving dinner…

Other types of barriers include diaphragms and cervical caps which work by physically blocking sperm from entering the uterus. Think putting down cones at the entrance of an amusement park ride (cue laugh track).

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

If having something placed inside your uterus doesn’t sound like your idea of fun then bear with me for a moment…IUDs deserve more credit than they often get! These small T-shaped devices are inserted into the uterus and can stay in place for up to 10 years depending on the type.

Some misconceptions about IUDs:

  • They’re only for women who’ve had children before
  • They increase your risk of infection
  • They hurt like a bellyflop onto concrete

These statements are arguably as false as saying that Bigfoot is my best friend. If you’re considering an IUD, make sure to chat with your healthcare provider!

Natural Family Planning (aka Fertility Awareness)

This method involves tracking your menstrual cycle and observing other bodily cues such as cervical mucus or basal body temperature to help identify when you’re most likely fertile. It’s definitely not foolproof (“oops” babies do happen) but it can be empowering to learn more about how your own body works!

Your Partner Is Affecting Your Birth Control? Oh Hell No

Here’s some hard truth: no one should ever mess with what goes inside your body without your consent – including your partner! If someone is actively trying to undermine or discourage you from using birth control methods, it’s time to re-evaluate whether this person has any business being in close proximity of any reproductive organs.

There’s No Perfect Method So Let’s Talk About Backup Plans

Despite our best efforts, sometimes things don’t go exactly according to plan (cue ironic chuckles). Here are some backup options if you find yourself sans-birth control when you really needed it:

  • Emergency Contraception (aka ‘The Morning After Pill’)
    + Works by preventing ovulation or fertilization
    + Not recommended for use as regular contraception – save these pills for true emergencies.
  • Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD)
    + Can be used up until 5 days after unprotected sex
    + More than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy

Remember: while it’s great to have backup plans, nothing beats good ol’ fashioned consistency and communication with your partner. Ain’t nobody got time for unplanned pregnancies or awkward “I think you gave me an STD” conversations.

Final Thoughts

Like I said earlier – there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to contraception. Whether you want something long-term like an IUD or prefer a more spontaneous method like condoms (with a side of spermicidal lube), the most important thing is that YOU feel informed and educated about your options. And hey, if all else fails, at least we can take solace in knowing that Jon Snow knows ‘nothing’.

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