sex faqs

Sexual FAQs

Q. Is it true that penicillin will make my birth control pills less effective? (Amoxicillin, Augmentin)

A. Absolutely Yes!!!

Penicillin & it’s ‘brothers’ – amoxicillin, augmentin, ampicillin, Pen VK, etc.– all have the potential to interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Always use a back-up method of birth control when taking any antibiotic, BUT do continue to take your pill as you usually do! When in doubt, ask your pharmacist when you pick up your antibiotic. Tetracycline will also interfere with the pill’s effectiveness.

Don’t stop taking the pill while on penicillin, as your body is already used to the ‘cycle’ of the pill. How antibiotics interfere with birth control pills is actually not really clear. If you are an adult female, who has had a total hysterectomy (with your ovaries removed), this also applies to you. You may find that your estrogen replacement therapy is not as effective. (Ask your GYN if he or she wants you to increase your dose to avoid any hot flashes, flushing or night sweats). I found this out myself since I had my ovaries removed. It was obvious that my estrogen pills were just not as effective. Good question!

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Q. What is ORTHO EVRA ®? (“the patch”)

A. The ORTHO EVRA birth control patch is a highly effective, weekly hormonal birth control patch that is worn on the skin to prevent pregnancy. The patch is worn for one week and replaced on the same day of the week for three consecutive weeks, with the fourth week “patch-free.” ORTHO EVRA combines the efficacy of the birth control pill with once-a-week dosing.

ORTHO EVRA is a very thin, beige, smooth patch that measures 1 3/4 inches on each of its four sides. Currently, the ORTHO EVRA ® birth control patch is available only in one color, beige. Other colors, including a clear patch, are being evaluated for future development. For more, check out their site: OrthoEvra.com

Yes, you will need a prescription for this product as you would with the pill or depo-provera. This method will not protect you from STDs – but, you can use it with condoms for STD prevention.

* For much more visit: TheBirthControlPatch.com -Birth Control Patch News, Faq, Forum, Info, Support Polls, Facts, Stories, Report Side Effects & more.

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Q. What is the NuvaRing®, and is it effective?

A. NuvaRing is ideal for women who want a method of contraception that is effective, discreet and above all convenient. When used as directed, NuvaRing is 99% effective — that’s every bit as effective as the pill and patch. However, unlike women who use those methods, NuvaRing users need only think about contraception once a month. For more, see their web site at: NuvaRing®. This method will not protect you from STDs! U se it with condoms for STD prevention.

Here is a photo a the NuvaRing.You insert the NuvaRing® into your vagina only once a month. The muscles in your vaginal wall will keep it in place for three weeks. During that time, it will slowly release a low dose of hormones needed to prevent pregnancy.

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Q. Can Depo-Provera®, decrease your sex drive?

A. It’s possible that changes in hormone levels caused by depo-provera and or birth control pills might cause a decrease in sex drive. About five of women may experience this. If this is a side effect for you, tell your health care provider about this and decide if you want to continue with this method.

DEPO-PROVERA is given to you just four times a year. Get your injection, and you’re protected for three months. DEPO-PROVERA is 99.7% effective. You will get your first injection in the first 5 days of your period. After that, you can schedule DEPO-PROVERA every 11 to 13 weeks, on a day that’s convenient for you. You can get the injection in the upper arm or buttock, whichever you decide. DEPO-PROVERA is effective immediately, so you walk out of your health care providers office protected against pregnancy, but of course, not STDs.

For more on this product, see what our panel of MDs had to say about it. Also, see their web site at: Depo-Provera.com This method will not protect you from STDs! You can use it with condoms for STD prevention.

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Q. I am new to “the pill”, when does the birth control pill become effective?

A. Most health care providers, or clinics will recommend using a back-up method of birth control — like condoms — (or practice abstinence) for the entire first pack of pills.² When you start your second pack, then you will protected against pregnancy if taken correctly. Always read the insert found inside the package of pills. Again, This method will not protect you from STDs! you can use it with condoms for STD prevention.

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Amy - Teen's Health Expert

By Amy - Teen's Health Expert

Discover the dedicated author behind Teen Health Secrets, an experienced expert committed to providing in-depth knowledge and guidance on various aspects of teen health, ensuring young individuals lead healthy, informed lives.