When looking at options for pregnancy prevention, your gynecologist will likely share details about several options, along with information about which options might be appropriate for you. More likely than not, oral contraceptives – a birth control method that has been available since the early 1960s – will be discussed
Also known as birth control pills or “The Pill,” oral contraceptives are an effective option for pregnancy prevention when taken as directed. Much like anything else, however, it can take some time to get used to incorporating them into your daily routine. Habits aren’t formed overnight, and while a clinician will advise on when and how to take it, it’s up to the person prescribed to stay on track.
While certainly not foolproof, we typically find that patients quickly adjust to adding birth control into their daily routines by taking a few simple steps.
- Keep it within arm’s reach: Losing a pill pack deep in the bottom of a tote bag is a surefire way to miss a day. Opting to keep it somewhere more accessible like a nightstand, wallet, or a cosmetic case may be a better location to keep it top of mind.
- Ring the alarm: One option that many women use is setting a cellphone alarm for a daily reminder for when to take your pill.
- Don’t forget to factor in time changes: Whether you’re traveling to a different time zone or setting the clocks back for daylight saving time, certain transitions can affect the time you’re used to taking your pill. Be sure to always factor in any time differences to make sure you are still taking your pill at the same time every day. If you have any questions about when to take your pill, ask your healthcare provider.
- Be informed: When speaking to your gynecologist, no question is a silly question. Write down anything you’re not sure about in a notebook, such as how and when to take your birth control pill, and bring it with you to the doctor’s office to get the clarity you need. For any follow up questions, don’t be afraid to give us a call