To want to go back on the pill

[askyfullofstars]

Pre DS, I was on the pill (Cilest), and it was perfect for me.
After having DS, I was advised that I couldn't go back on the pill - I was overweight (not anymore yay!), but mostly my age (31 - now 35). So, I tried the implant which was horrendous, I bled almost constantly and had awful mood swings.

I was told to persist with it, which I did, but it didnt get any better. So, I had it removed and then was advised to try a non hormonal IUD (copper coil).

I have had that for about 18 months, and even though my periods are now regular they are closer together, heavier (I use sanitary towels and even though they are pretty industrial strength, I still have to change them almost all the time or I leak) and more painful. I also get random twinges of pain throughout my cycle. So, even though, as a contraceptive, its working fine, its just making my life around my period a misery (not to mention a pain when I am at work)

I want to ask my GP about going back on the pill, but I know he will probably just say no you are too old.

I'm 45 and I'm on the pill so I'm not sure why you are too old, unless its the type of pill that is causing the issue? I take cerazette, I don't get periods either so its great!

As long as your weight is not in the obese category and you don't smoke Andy average no other risk factors you can stay on the pill until the menopause.

You can use the pill up until menopause, as long as you're not obese and don't have any risk factors that would make taking the pill risky. I know some HCP's don't like to give it over a certain age though.

YANBU to want to go back on the pill. I too hated the implant and I'm too scared to try anything else in case I get the same effects.

I opted for the implant after ds because the pill was a nightmare for me beforehand (it was Cerelle I think)
I don't see my gp about contraceptive though, in our area, most gps will just send you to the contraceptive clinics.
When I had my implant inserted, the nurse said that it is preferable for a lot of hcps to suggest implants and coils as they are more cost effective than the pill.
I don't know how true that is, but perhaps that plays a part in why so many people are persuaded to use the longer term contraceptives.
YANBU, contraceptives should be a choice that is preferable to you.

Strange that they were reluctant based on age if you're only mid30's. I'm 34 and on the pill without anyone raising it.

What I would say is don't assume that cilest will still be the right one for you - I was on it from 18 up until we started ttc at 29. I automatically went for that one when I went back on the pill at 33 after having 2 dc and have had to change as it gave me the most terrible mood swings and felt so low all the time.

perhaps that plays a part in why so many people are persuaded to use the longer term contraceptives.

I have never thought about that before but that is a good point. There is certainly a push to get more women onto long acting reversible contraception and I've heard that HCP's have to offer other methods when women want the pill. It wouldn't surprise me if some doctors would use the "too old" line as a method to get people onto LARC instead.

I've been on the pill for the last 9 years, I am 39. My doctor has never suggested any other contraception.

Go to a family planning clinic rather than your Gp. They are much more knowledgeable and will be able to discuss your options with you.

Are you a smoker?
They would probably suggest progesterone only pill.

YANBU but Cilest is quite an "old" pill and I was told it isn't recommended any more because it is comparatively high in oestrogen.

Maybe chat to your Dr. again about other pill options for you?

progesterone only you say? well well, I have been worrying about my contraceptive choices since last year when I was told by my practise nurse to make a decision quickly before I turn 35 later this year as ' the absolutely wont be giving me the pill'. felt really pushed into getting a coil but to be honest the thought brings me out in a cold sweat so have avoided going to the surgery. just looked into progesterone only pill and its fine after 35 and for smokers so I am going and demanding it! no health issues so no reason why not!
I luffs mumsnet! thank you to the poster above who mentioned it
I have seriously had enough of them pushing the coil on me, its the hard sell every time