Nishmat's Women’s Health and HalachaIn memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

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Contraceptive options at 51

15 December, 2013

Question:

I am 51 years old and am currently taking the pill as my method of birth control. My doctor feels this is very unsafe as I have a history of migraines and she is concerned that I am at risk for stroke. I have three children, who were conceived in my 40's without any intervention, thank G–d, so I am still worried about getting pregnant. Can you recommend a birth control method to transition to that doesn't involve hormones and is halachically acceptable. Thank you.


Answer:

We recommend discussing the use of a diaphragm with your doctor. Once you are off the pill, you can also have your hormonal levels tested to see whether you are entering perimenopause. Depending on your levels, it may be sufficient to use spermicide alone for contraception at this point.

Another non-hormonal option is the IUD. Please note that irregular staining is common during the first three months after having the IUD inserted.

Please feel free to get back to us with any further questions.

B'Hatzlacha!


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