Most forms of birth control are highly effective when used correctly. Unfortunately, not everyone knows the ins and outs of their chosen birth control method and inadvertently make mistakes. To help you avoid the potential pitfalls of incorrectly using your birth control, here are some commonly made mistakes.
You Nick the Sponge
The sponge's effectiveness is greatly reduced when the sponge has a tear or nick in it. In most instances, the tear is done during insertion. During intercourse, the tear can grow and leave you unprotected from pregnancy.
The best way to reduce the risk of a tear is to keep your nails short. If you want to wear your nails long, you need to be extra careful during insertion. You should also use another form of birth control with the sponge, such as a condom, to further reduce the risk of pregnancy.
You Miss a Pill
Forgetting to take a birth control pill some days is not uncommon. However, it can increase the chances of pregnancy. If you are having trouble remembering your birth control, consider setting an alarm to remind you. If you continue to struggle with remembering, talk to your OB/GYN about other forms of birth control.
When you do use birth control pills and miss a pill, it is important that you remember to take the pill as soon as you remember. You can take your next pill at the time that you normally do. As an added precaution, use a backup birth control method for a few days.
You Do Not Disclose Your Full Medical History
Before prescribing a birth control method, the OB/GYN will need to know about your medical history. Some forms of birth control are impacted by conditions you have had in the past and medications you have and are currently taking.
For instance, if you have a family history of blood clots, your OB/GYN might be reluctant to prescribe birth control pills because they can lead to an increased risk of blood clots.
Your medical history can also help the doctor eliminate methods that have not worked in the past and focus on discovering the most effective form for you now.
Talk to your OB/GYN to learn more about other potential pitfalls that could impact the effectiveness of your birth control and to learn if there are other methods that would be more effective in helping you avoid pregnancy. For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Healthcare for Women Only.
