3 Things That You Shouldn't Do When Taking Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills can be a highly effective method of contraception, and some women find that they help with things like regulating their menstrual cycles. If you meet with your OB/GYN, you can find out more about birth control pills and whether or not they are right for you. If you do choose to take them, however, remember these three things that you shouldn't do when taking oral birth control.
1. Skip a Pill
If you have been taking your birth control pills regularly, it might not seem like a big deal if you miss just one pill. However, depending on when in your cycle you miss the pill, this could result in an unwanted pregnancy if you are not using back-up versions of birth control. It is truly important to take your pill every day, preferably at the same time of day, if you want your birth control to be as effective as possible. One good way to ensure that you remember to take your pills each day is by setting an alarm reminder on your phone or doing it at the same time that you do something else, such as every morning when you brush your teeth or each afternoon when you get off work.
2. Take Other Medications (Without Asking About Effects)
Of course, if your doctor wants to prescribe you medication for an illness or something else that you are going through, you do not necessarily have to say no just because you are on birth control. However, you should know that certain medications that you take can have an effect on how effective your birth control pills are. Therefore, if you are prescribed any other type of medication, make sure that you ask your primary care doctor or OB/GYN if your birth control's effectiveness will be affected.
3. Count On it for STD Protection
Another thing that you should know about birth control pills is that, although they can be very effective at preventing an unwanted pregnancy, they do not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases or sexually transmitted infections. Using a condom in conjunction with birth control pills can help you be even more protected.
As you can see, there are a few things that you should not do when taking birth control pills. If you remember these things and talk to your OB/GYN or other doctor about your birth control options, however, you might find that birth control pills are a good option for you.