The pill and other options. Need some advice

[movingsoon23]

Hi All, I've made an appointment to see the doctor about going on the pill. I've only ever used condoms before so I'm a little apprehensive about the appointment! I'd like to have a little knowledge before I go. Can anyone tell me the kind of questions that the doctor might ask me? what should I ask them?! and any advice on what kind of contraception might be best? I feel like a teenager asking these questions but I'm actually in my early 30s. Thanks very much!

They'll probably take your height and weight, as high BMI can be a problem for pill dosage. And your blood pressure, as they like to keep track of that.

Likely questions - migraines, smoking history, general 'do you have any health problems?' sort of questions.

They may also want to talk to you about Long Acting Reversable Contraceptives (implant, coil, that kind of thing) because they have targets for talking to people about them! It doesn't mean they don't think the pill is the right choice, but they may want to tell you the pros and cons to be sure you've thought about it.

Questions from you - not sure really. Pills come with a booklet explaining everything, so read it through in detail when you get them, to make sure you know what to do if you miss one, any side effects to look out for.

There's lots of information about the different types of contraception if you google.

And MN has a contraceptions topic in which it is easier to find threads where MNetters have shared experiences and linked resources than in the general chat/AIBU or general health topics.

As you are so young, then I'm guessing you want a reversible contraception. I thinkone ie thing t ask yourself if whether you are OK with remembering to take a pill daily (not necessarily every week, though, and at risk if pills are missed) or if you think you might prefer a longer-acting method.