Signs it’s time to switch your contraception prescription

Choosing the right birth control method can be a personal and sometimes challenging decision.

While many options work well for years, certain signs may indicate that it’s time to switch things up.

Pharmacists in BC can now prescribe for a variety of minor ailments, as well as birth control. At Rutland Medical Pharmacy, we can help you assess if it’s time to switch up your contraception prescription.

Are You Experiencing Unpleasant Side Effects?

It’s not uncommon to experience some side effects when you start a new contraception prescription.

However, if these side effects persist or worsen, it may be time to talk to a doctor or pharmacist about your symptoms and the best way to address them.

Common side effects include:

Nausea and Vomiting: If your birth control pills consistently upset your stomach, it’s worth discussing alternatives with your healthcare provider.

Mood Changes: Hormonal birth control can sometimes affect your mood. If you’re feeling unusually irritable, anxious, or depressed, it might be related to your contraception prescription.

Weight Fluctuations: Significant weight gain or loss can be a concern for some individuals on hormonal birth control.

Headaches and Migraines: If you’ve noticed an increase in the frequency or severity of headaches, your prescription might be the culprit.

These symptoms should not be ignored, especially if they’re impacting your daily life. A simple change in your contraception prescription could alleviate these issues.

Changes in Your Health or Lifestyle

Your health and lifestyle can change over time, making your current birth control method less suitable.

Consider the following scenarios:

Smoking Habits: If you’ve started smoking or have been advised to quit, it’s essential to reassess your birth control options, particularly if you’re using an estrogen-based method. Smoking combined with certain types of birth control increases the risk of cardiovascular issues.

Chronic Conditions: If you’ve been diagnosed with conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or migraines with aura, some contraceptive methods might be less safe or effective.

New Medications: Some medications, such as antibiotics or anti-seizure drugs, can interfere with hormonal contraception. If you’ve started a new prescription, it’s vital to ensure your birth control still works effectively.

Rutland Pharmacy can help you manage your prescriptions to make sure they’re effective and safe.

Reduced Effectiveness or Protection

If you’ve noticed that your current birth control method isn’t as effective as it once was, it’s time to explore other options.

While this is rare, factors like incorrect use, weight changes, or interactions with other medications can reduce effectiveness.

Signs to watch for include:

Breakthrough Bleeding: Irregular bleeding or spotting between periods might indicate that your birth control isn’t working as well as it should.

Missed Periods: While some contraceptives can cause lighter periods or even stop them entirely, a sudden change in your cycle may be a sign that your prescription isn’t right for you.

If you’re concerned about the reliability of your contraception, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider.

Wanting Different Benefits

Birth control isn’t just about preventing pregnancy. Many people use contraception for additional benefits, such as regulating periods, reducing acne, or managing symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

If your current contraception prescription isn’t delivering the benefits you want, it might be time for a change.

Acne Management: If your birth control isn’t helping with hormonal acne, a different formulation could make a difference.

Menstrual Regulation: If you’re using birth control to regulate your period but still experience irregularities, a switch might be necessary.

Symptom Management: For those managing PCOS or endometriosis, the right contraception can significantly impact your quality of life. If your current method isn’t providing relief, discuss alternative options with your doctor.

Consult a Pharmacist at Rutland Medical Pharmacy

Pharmacists in BC are able to write prescriptions for a variety of minor conditions and birth control. If you’re thinking about switching up your current contraception prescription, come talk to us at Rutland Medical Pharmacy.

We’re here to support you in making the best choices for your health. Whether you need to switch your contraception or have questions about your current prescription, our knowledgeable pharmacists are ready to assist.

Visit us or call us today to learn more.