If you are a sexually active young woman who does not want to get pregnant, you have several options for preventing unwanted pregnancies. Which alternative you choose is a personal decision -- one you should make together with your healthcare provider, as well as your sexual partner.
Of course, the only sure-fire way to avoid pregnancy is to practice abstinence -- no sexual intercourse at all. Many couples decide not to engage in sexual intercourse for a variety of reasons: concern about unplanned pregnancy, religious beliefs, wanting to focus on other aspects of the relationship first. Successful relationships require that both individuals respect the feelings and concerns of their partner when discussing issues such as sexuality.
Three of the most popular methods for preventing pregnancy are combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC), which include the oral contraceptive pill ("the pill"), transdermal patch (Evra) and vaginal ring (Nuva Ring).
These medications contain two synthetic hormones (estrogen and progesterone) that are similar to those normally produced by a woman. CHC are very effective means of birth control. Research shows that out of 100 women using CHC correctly, only one will become pregnant during a given year (99 percent effective).
CHC methods prevent pregnancy by regulating hormone levels to inhibit ovulation, producing thick cervical secretions that act as a physical barrier to sperm, and making the lining of the uterus less receptive to a fertilized egg.
If you are sexually active, you may not be fully protected from pregnancy by CHC during the first seven days of use. Therefore, you should use a second method of birth control, such as foam and condoms, during the first week of your CHC method. Keep a second method of birth control, such as condoms, available at all times and learn to use it well.
PLEASE NOTE: While CHC help to prevent pregnancy, they will not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Always use a condom even when on a CHC method if you are at risk for STIs.
CHC is prescribed for many women as treatment of medical problems, such as painful, irregular or heavy periods, endometriosis and ovarian cysts. Some other benefits of CHC (besides effective birth control) include less iron-deficiency anemia, reduced risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers, fewer ectopic pregnancies (pregnancies outside the uterus, in Fallopian tubes) and less fibrocystic breast disease.
Minor side effects of CHC include: spotting between periods, decreased menstrual flow, missed periods, depression, mood changes, fatigue, decreased sex drive, acne, breast tenderness, fluid retention, weight gain, more problems with yeast infections and vaginal discharge or itching. Another annoying possible side effect is chloasma, in which the skin darkens on the upper lip, under the eyes or on the forehead; sun may make it worse and it may become permanent.
More serious side effects can include high blood pressure (often reversible once CHC are discontinued) and gallbladder disease.
Smoking cigarettes while using CHC can increase the risk of possible life-threatening side effects such as blood clots, heart attacks and strokes. If you currently smoke you should consider quitting. Talk with your clinician about resources available to help you quit.
You can review additional information about contraceptive choices by visiting the University Health Services (UHS) Web site at http://www.sa.psu. edu/uhs/womenshealth/ contraceptive.cfm or calling us at 863-2633. Openings for women's health care appointments are available on a first-come, first-served basis through the end of the semester.
