question for women over 35
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question for women over 35
| Wed, 06-18-2008 - 9:45am |
I was just wondering what you women over 35 use for birth control. I wasn't on any type because I wasn't having sex with my husband before I left him..lol
Now that I am starting to date, I really have to do something before I get into a bad situation. I am 39 now, and i know for a FACT that my baby "wanting" days are over.
I tried to get an IUD, but the doc says they really don't do that anymore,,and it's kind or archaic, he told me. I cannot go on the pill because

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Hi - I'm 37, and I use the Depo-Provera shot.
IUD's are back now. THey are only for women in long term relationships though. I know several women IRL with IUD's, the most problems they've had was heavier bleeding/more painful cycle for the first few months while their bodies got adjusted.
I did use that once but the doctor didn't want it for more than that because it really decreases your bone mineral density - I am wondering if they mentioned that to you? Also when you "go off" of it you have really severe bleeding. So, only the shot once for me - although it was fantastic to get a shot and not have to worry or get your period for 3 months.
I now use an IUD. I am surprised that the doctor didn't recommend them. They have a new one that has a hormone that acts as a topical only to prevent bleeding and cramps. And you don't get your period. The WHO recommends it for women over 40 who do not want to be on the pill and who want a method that is just as good as sterilization. I have had no problems with it - am using the Mirena one - which is not copper - just a bit of progesterone.
I would also use a condom but not so much for BC as for STD prevention. My doctor recommends that as well.
There are a lot of options and everyone has different concerns. I cannot take the pill because I cannot stand the side effects of it - but that is just me.
Here is the paper on the IUD from WHO:
http://www.who.int/reproductive-health/hrp/progress/60/Progress60.pdf
I have not had a period since its insertion - which was painful - just a little spotting but all of that is gone and I have no cramping or any sensation of having it now.
(edited to add WHO link)
Edited 6/18/2008 10:46 am ET by cl-west1745
I used Depo Provera after I had my daughter--I was on it for about 3 years and NOW my doctor tells me that the maximum lifetime usage for the Depo shot should be between 24-36 months (due to a reduction in bone density with extended use)--I was so upset!
April
It's a low-dose BCP for me. Never had any side effect problems with it, so it works for me! Though I am READY for menopause to come so I won't have to deal with all this BC/AF crap anymore!!!!
~shrimpy
"A man who wants something will find a way; a man who doesn't will find an excuse." ~Stephen Dolley Jr.
~<
We did discuss the bone density side effect.
I am 46 and have been off of the pill for awhile, waiting for the change.
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