[2muchbackend]

I was diagnosed with pcos a year ago and was prescribed spironolactone/aldactone.
I used it for a couple of months and it seemed to really help some of the pcos symptoms. But I was told to not get pregnant as it could cause birth defects so I said oh my gosh I need a birth control pill then and the Dr wouldn't give me those since I have other medical issues that the pill would not be good with. I then asked about other birth control methods and she recommended condoms. After that every time I would have sex I'd be so afraid that something would happen and I'd accidentally get pregnant and would either have to get an abortion or have a child with birth defects I don't want to get into a heated discussion about abortions but I just wouldn't get one unless it was a last resort.
So I quite taking the prescription and now my face looks so hairy I look like the missing link??? and my androgen levels are very high.
Any suggestions on what I should do any other birth control methods or should I just get over the fear.
Thanks for any help sorry so long and blabby!

[penmage]

I've been using Spironolactone for about 2 years now. My doctor prescribed Yasmin (the older version of the Yaz BCP) to take with it to correct the hormone imbalance. He said I wouldn't have any problems, because the pills are just getting my hormones back where they should be. Granted, I can't have kids, so he may not have mentioned anything about those particular kinds of issues because he knew they wouldn't come up.

I wish I knew what to tell you, but you should really go talk to your doctor about that. They're probably smarter than I am

In any case, good luck with everything!

[fatburner77]

There's a bunch of methods of birth control that exist, so who knows why your physician only suggested condoms. How about a diaphragm or cervical cap? Ever researched an IUD (intrauterine device)? Maybe your doctor recommended condoms for their low cost and availability, but she left out many other options. Is she your OB/GYN, or general practitioner? This may explain why she hasn't been especially in tune with reproductive concerns.
While I don't think an irrational fear of becoming pregnant should rule your love life (after all, if you use condoms correctly they're exceptionally effective), you should be vigilant to avoid getting pregnant while on that med. The doctor would tell you the same thing if you were on Accutane, for example, and would actually make you take a pregnancy test before going on the drug. Just do a bit of research, and next time you see your doctor, simply tell her what method of contraception you'd like to try.

[midwife]

If you PM me your exact contraindications I might be able to offer a little guidance.

A copper IUD has no hormones and might be a good choice.

Depending on your medical issues, a Mirena IUD, progesterone only BCPs or depo might be okay.

[Princess0113]

like fatburner said above, condoms are quite effective when used correctly. but i understand being nervous about it. keep in mind that even if you were able to take a birth control pill, they are not 100% effective either! but that doesn't mean that you have to live in fear. follow up with your MD again and express how scared you are about getting pregnant. if i were you, i'd find out if you could get a copper IUD or mirena. they are very effective and you don't have to worry about forgetting to take a pill or the condom breaking.

[zinkemomx2]

I was under the impression docs wouldn't do an IUD unless you have given birth before. That's what mine told me when he wanted me to come off the pill.

[midwife]

Many providers are placing IUDs in women who have never given birth. There was never any good reason not to. Technical placement is easier if a woman has given birth, but it is no longer a contraindication. As with many other things, if your provider won't do it, ask for a referral to someone who will. Or call Planned Parenthood.

midwife (who this week placed IUDs in two women who have not given birth and don't plan on it for awhile)

[zinkemomx2]

That is good to know. Thanks midwife