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Most of my nursing career has been dedicated to counseling young women about the various birth control options. The pill, IUD’s, depo…there is something to fit every lifestyle. The lighter periods, shorter periods, and clear skin are an added bonus. I mean seriously, which woman doesn’t want that? Even though my days are filled touting the benefits of contraception, let me let you in on little secret…. I’m not on birth control and this freaks me out a little… Ok, if I’m being honest A LOT.
I love my daughter and my life is much more enhanced since having her but if you’ve read my guest blog on Atlanta Area Mom’s Blog you know that I’m not trying to have any more kids. Like NEVER!
So why aren’t I on birth control?
Why do I secretly break out into a cold sweat if my period is like one-minute late?
I have a good explanation. I really do.
Birth Control Options
To be honest, I’m scared. I’ve always been on the pill. It’s safe, I know what side effects to expect and it’s non-invasive. The IUD while providing super long-lasting protection against pregnancy (anywhere from 5-10 years), I’m afraid that I will develop bacterial vaginosis-an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina that makes you smell really funky. Plus, the insertion method is a little barbaric (Google it).
The Nexplanon (arm implant) can be easily placed and it may take only take a healthcare provider 15 to complete the procedure in-office, but I’ve seen too many patients come back in to get them removed because of the prolonged bleeding. Although the research states only 1 out of 4 women will have more bleeding when the device is inserted, I’m convinced I would be that woman.
Depo Provera. Nope. I will gain weight.
So my choices are abstinence or condoms. Although I would really like to get a diaphragm, I don’t think doctors even offer them anymore. Seriously, if you know any that do let me know!
Abstinence? Yeah, my husband isn’t down for that (LOL). I mean can you blame him?
Current Birth Control Method
So the Kings have decided to go the condom route (a little TMI, I know). It’s worked out for us so far but no method is 100% effective. The thought of “accidentally” becoming pregnant at the age of 4-0… pray for me y’all. So I unintentionally avoid sex. Since Nyah is almost four I’ve had plenty of time to think about it and I feel like I’m ready for a “permanent birth control solution.” Even though my mom keeps advising against it (I let her know that if she would like to be a live-in nanny then, I’m game, lol). It’s time friends. There are a couple of options available so I need to do a little more research, speak to some experts (AKA, my nurse practitioner and midwife friends) and make a decision.
Growing up I never had dreams of having a large family. I always knew that two was my max. I’m literally asked every day if I’m going to have another baby and I’ve been giving the same answer for three plus years…. HELL NAW!
Please don’t think that I made this decision on my own. My husband tells me repeatedly that he is happy with life as the “Three King” and in the end, that’s all that matters.
What about you? How did you decide on your current method? How did you come to that decision?
When did you know you were done having kids?