I recently had my final Post-Natal physical. And of course, the Nurse Practitioner (NP) had to ask us what we plan to do about contraception. It’s a really big deal here. I don’t know how many times I was asked about it during PRE-natal visits. In fact, as I look back, I think that the NP spent more time talking to me about contraception at that last exam than any of the NP’s or doctors spent actually examining me at any given exam.
Push. Push. Push. You don’t want another baby. You’ve already got a boy and a girl. Perfect family.
Before I gave birth, they really pushed for me to have a tubal, because I was having a c-section. So convenient. So simple. Yeah, it makes sense.
Something didn’t sit right.
Each method is so convenient and easy. But what about the side effects.
Drug ads always state the side effects and risks, and many drugs require regular tests to make sure it’s not having adverse effects (or that the side effects are under control).
Not so with contraception. Each method the NP suggested was ‘so easy and convenient’, and with few side effects. No one ever talks about what these drugs and other invasive methods can do to your system. And when a woman does notice a problem, most times the doctor will not admit or believe that it’s linked to the contraception.
Women are lied to about their reproductive health from the first ‘health class’ in high school. We have to do a lot of research on our own to find answers when we realize that things are not right. Then we usually have to fight with a doctor to have something done to help us with a problem – whether it’s caused by nature or our contraceptive choice.
Philosophically, I don’t have an issue with contraception. But as someone who can link infertility to the use of the Pill, I do have a big problem with being told there are ‘no significant side effects’ by my Practitioner.
Hi Anne, we successfully used a diaphram for years. I loved my diaphram so much it was a little sad to say goodbye to it when DAvid decided to have the vasectomy.
Im with you, keep away from any drugs or surgical proceedures. It has only been in recent years that we have found out about the fact that prostrate cancer rates are higher in men with vasectomies. Grrr.
Go the diaphram! Wooo Hoooo.
I find it interesting that they didn't even mention the diaphram… I would have NO problem with that one. I think that it's not popular with docs here, cause years ago I wanted to get one and the doctor wouldn't do it. He wanted me on the pill… what evil conspiracy can we make of this?