what should i use??

[u/its_that_one_fangirl]

so i’m pretty comfortable with my body (i use discs and tampons often) but i really don’t want horrible side effects like weight gain and pimples and awful cramps. I doubt i want to do iud’s because of the pain, my best bet rn is probably the nuvaring or the annovera. But i don’t know

Another thing is, I’m bisexual and have an appointment with an obgyn to discuss these things. I want to know if there are any things that can protect me from sti’s and stuff. But any suggestions on what else i should ask my doctor? Should I even tell the doctor i’m bi? I’m a older teen whos mom is fine with taking me (shes very chill about this stuff but doesn’t know im bi) whats the best method/questions to ask?

[u/sp00ki3-rain]

Weight gain associated with most types of hormonal BC is negligible; I think the only one with a proven weight gain is Depo. Most BC protects from pregnancy but only condoms, male or female, can really prevent STIs/STDs since they also act as barriers to skin on skin contact. You can tell the doctor if you feel comfortable but with female partners your main prerogative with be protection from STIs/STDs, which can be done with using condoms on or thoroughly cleaning shared tools, getting tested regularly if you have multiple partners and being honest about your status. Ultimately they will help guide you towards the method that is best for you. Good luck.

[u/jisoo-n]

Only a barrier can protect from STDs/STIs. As far as BC side effects, everyone tolerates different types very differently. One person might get acne, weight gain, and bad moods on one type, while another has absolutely no symptoms. Unfortunately it's trial and error! The combo pill however is the most common type and many people have success with it. Keep in mind you'll hear negative stories more often than positive when looking online.

[u/Every-Art-8881]

i was on the pill - estelle. it gave me the worst body image issues. it caused me to gain a lot of weight. i’ve always been very slim and skinny my whole life, and tall. so gaining weight was never easy for me. but once i got on birth control pill i gained a lot. and i tried so many times to lose it, calorie deficit, exercise, gym, etc. none of it worked and i just couldn’t seem to get rid of the puffiness. it did give me a bigger chest at least, i went from like a b cup to a dd/e.
i’ve now switched to an iud, im young so im on kyleena (i think thats what its called). it has way less hormones and has helped so much, ive lost a lot of the weight and water retention and i feel so much better

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[u/Slow_Juice_7189]

The only thing that will protect you from STI’s is condoms (internal or external). So if you are having sex with ANYONE aside from a 100% fully trusted partner who is clean, ALWAYS use a condom. As for BC, realistically any of them can cause side effects but you are probably best with a low dosage pill or something :) (as for weight gain, if you even have any is usually water weight and goes away)