Alternatives to hormonal contraception

[Haggisneepsntatties]

Hello,I am having an appointment with a new GP tomorrow and I'd like to push for a diagnosis after being repeatedly brushed off by the last GP. I've had bad experiences with contraceptive pills in the past (extreme weight gain, mental health issues, even more irregular periods, migraines) and I really don't want to risk any of it again. I'm also not interested in the implant or coil- each to their own but I have been with friends having them done and also seen both go wrong after the procedure and I definitely don't want to risk that. I also don't need contraception as I swing the other way so it has no added benefits.

My question is this: am I likely to be listened to if I say I don't want contraception? The last GP literally said 'if you don't want the pill then I can't help you'. If they really think it's worth it I'll consider it but I don't want them to refuse to help or to not investigate if I say I don't want HC.

All the guidance, including on NICE seems to point towards HC being an effective first line treatment but also that it's offered on an assumed diagnosis and that if it's effective in pain management and bleeding they may decide not to further investigate.

Any and all advice gratefully received - thank you!

[TennisCourt]

Hey hun! I HATE birth control. Was on it for 10 years, implant, pill, injection, implant AND pill and I hated it all. I would bleed like 3 times a month, it really affected me mentally and hormonally, I would get excessive sweating; just horrible.

Now I’ve been off birth control for at least 6 months and my period is regular and pretty much can time it within a day or 2 whilst on birth control I never knew when I was gonna bleed! Only problem is they are VERY painful and heavy, and I basically can’t do anything for a week. But I feel so much better mentally off bc.

I feel stuck as I keep getting offered the coil, and other options of bc and I’m not interested. I do not want them. I know my body, I know it doesn’t take bc well.

So I have to pick heavy and painful periods atm🤦🏽‍♀️

I’m due my first surgery for diagnosis soon but in the mean time I’ve been offered birth control, chemical menopause with HRT or keep going as I’m going. To me, none of them are sensible options, I’m 26 so the menopause seems insane.

I’m sorry I’m not helpful as I’m having the same issue of not wanting birth control but not really having any other options. As well a period can grow Endo further and since coming off bc I have seen my symptoms dramatically get worse as my periods are heavier.

If I was you I would push for the laparoscopy surgery to get a diagnosis or maybe an MRI and get a better GP to discuss your options with. I’ve had my fair share of shitty medical professionals but I’ve had a couple that are nice and try.

It’s hard, and you feel very alone but this group is brill and I’m sure someone else will share their experience xxx

[Lornalost89]

Hi. I was in the same situation thankfully my GP listened and reffered me to a surgical team who have also listened. But they advise chemical menopause which I need to look at the pros and cons I also don't need contraception or my baby making parts let's say I've already been sterilised but alot of pros and cons to consider I feel. Its really tricky place to be. X

[TennisCourt in reply to Lornalost89]

I also need to look at chemical menopause but at 26 it feels all very scary and weird! My periods are so bad I would happily accept a hysterectomy at this point but being 26 with no kids I know they won’t let me but it’s no quality of life xxx

[Avourneen]

Try saying you need a referral to a gynae and that you are tired of being fobbed off. The other alternative is look up a gynae who specialises in endo in your area and just book a refferel privately. It will cost about 150 pounds but then you can get the ball rolling and get things looked into. You don't have to stay private but a priate gynae can refer for scans much more quickly than an NHS one, you probably won't get to even see and NHS gynae for a year.

Hormonal birth control can help stop the endo growing and it can stop periods so it can help, there are loads of different types so one might work for you. Anything without oestrogen is safe for people with endo, anything with it can make things worse. Sounds like you might have been given the wrong type but it's hard to tell as it is so different for everyone. But even if it was helping you (which doesn't sound like it) you do need to get to the root of the problem.

I think GP's guidelines are to prescribe the pill for suspected endo as a first option , I guess this is to keep patients feeling like something is being done during the massive wait to see a doctor with some knowledge of endo. Get yourself to a decent gynae and get some proper advice, good luck.

[Haggisneepsntatties]

Thanks all for your comments! The appointment went well, I actually feel listened to and the GP spoke through my concerns with me. We're going to try noriday as ccp and desogestral not suitable, but keeping a close eye on side effects. She suggested the mirena coil but sensed I am not quite on board with it. She's also put me in for blood tests/hormonal profile and a physical exam which is a great step forward. I'm hoping not to have to advocate as hard as I thought I'd have to, but the reality is this might not work and she might not be the doctor I see next time. Thanks for all your advice, I appreciate it so much!

[PBGV24]

I have the coil so I don’t have periods anymore (just occasional spotting). For me I’d rather have the coil than having to go through a period. The bleeding and the pain was just far too extreme.

So I think you just have to weigh up your options - pros and cons of each. I’d push for a gynea referral who definitely can speak to you better about this.

Healthcare professionals need to work on their holistic care and listen to what the patient wants and help them with their decision making.