Birth Control Options: Comparing Pills & the Depo Shot - Pros & Cons

Question
I just had a baby 3 weeks ago and knew that I was going back on birth control since my insurance didn't cover me to get my tubes tied. I have been on ortho tri-cyclen for the past 6 years and it worked great for me. I am wondering about the shot now because I am afraid that I will forget to take these pills and won't have to worry about it with the shot. I have heard different stories on the shot that it messes up your periods and other people have told me that you don't have a period at all. I just started these "trinessa" pills 2 days ago. Is it too late for me to change my mind now?

Answer
Hi Tabatha,

As far as changing from the pill to the shot, you'll need to consult your Dr. on the best time, and how to do that so you have continous coverage.

Now, there are pros and cons to both the pill and the shot. Just like the pill, you'll have to remember to get your shot right on time, missing it can throw off your cycle. And yes, more women experience late or missed periods while on the shot, and others will have no periods at all. Many women like this about the shot, but if your like me, the period is assurance you are not pregnant. Also, if you decide in the future to have another baby, and you are on the shot, it will take you up to a year after stopping the shot to become pregnant, as it will take that long for your body to get back to a normal cycle. Other than that, the side effects and health risks are the same as for the pill. One thing to consider though, if you have the shot, and you have bad side effects, you will have to live with those the entire period that shot works, as it can not be stopped, like pills can. They can be switched easily, if your side effects are too bad. Have you considered the patch? It is a patch worn on your skin that provides protection through hormones absorbed through the skin. You change in once a week for three weeks, and then go one week without it. Now, there is alot of controversy surronding it right now, as some studies have indicated women who use the patch are more likley than women who use the pill, to suffer blood clots.

Talk out all the options with your Dr., and make a desicion that best fits your new life. I hope I have given you a little more info to help you with that.

Congrats on the baby! :) Thanks,

Drea Jean