What contraception should I choose if I have side effects from the pills?

Question

I have tried more than 7 different birth control pills. I have a lot of reactions (mostly weight gain, depressed mood, loss of libido, bloating and headaches). I was considering the Nuva Ring but was told that it has many of the same side effects as the oral route. In your opinion, would the patch be ideal in my situation (less systemic absorption)

Naji-tom Samaha · Accepted Answer

Hello Mrs., thank you for your question! Nuvaring and Evra contain a combination of estrogen and progesterone, similar to oral contraceptives. The risk of side effects is present, but it is difficult to determine whether one or the other of these options will be better tolerated because they have not been studied head-to-head with other contraceptives Their form (vaginal ring and patch) allows for potentially less 'forgetting' though compared to a pill that must be taken daily. This is definitely an advantage, even if you don't forget to replace the patch or the ring as indicated! Having said that, you mentioned that you have tried no less than 7 contraceptives. Had you tried a progesterone-only contraceptive, such as the oral tablet Jencycla, the intramuscular injection Depo-Provera, the subcutaneous implant Nexplanon, or even an IUD? Don't hesitate if you have any other questions! Tom Samaha, Pharmacist