What's the process for getting on birth control?!
Question: I just had sex for the first time with my boyfriend a few days ago and we used a condom(plus I took plan b/morning after pill just incase the condom might have broken and we didn't notice or something). I had just been to the gynaecologist' a few days before for my pap smear and maybe I should have asked but what is the procedure for getting on birth control? I know they have to find one that matches you or what not but how long does that take? Also, I really don't want to get pregnant obviously but how effective is it? I've heard 99% percent before. Accurate? Also, how long after the very first pill is it safe enough to start having sex? Just curious I guess...thanks in advance.
oh I'm 20 btw
Answers: I just had sex for the first time with my boyfriend a few days ago and we used a condom(plus I took plan b/morning after pill just incase the condom might have broken and we didn't notice or something). I had just been to the gynaecologist' a few days before for my pap smear and maybe I should have asked but what is the procedure for getting on birth control? I know they have to find one that matches you or what not but how long does that take? Also, I really don't want to get pregnant obviously but how effective is it? I've heard 99% percent before. Accurate? Also, how long after the very first pill is it safe enough to start having sex? Just curious I guess...thanks in advance.
oh I'm 20 btw
The quickest and easiest way to get on the pill is likely to visit your local women's clinic or Planned Parenthood. Usually they do not require a pap smear (which you already had, and probably was normal) and they do a general health question session with a clinician to evaluate risk factors and need for birth control methods.
You should be able to get a prescription for birth control pills from your personal physician. It may take a little trial and error to find the pill that works well for you (ie, minimal side effects w/your body chemistry) but for the most part it is a pretty easy process. Keep in mind that over the first 1-3 months you may experience some unpleasant side effects, so don't jump onto another pill too quickly. Give your body a chance to adjust. If you find yourself experiencing a lot of unwanted side effects, like weight gain, low sex drive, nausea/vomiting, etc you can try a low estrogen pill like orthotricyclene lo (but keep in mind as of yet there is no generic version, so you will pay 50 bucks plus from a private pharmacy, less from a clinic.)
Look in the phone book or online for a women's clinic if you are uncomfortable getting b/c from your family doc.