[TaraB]

I got a question. I got on birth control a little while back. Someone earlier told me that I shouldn't smoke while on birth control because bad things can happen. I only smoke when I get stressed out, but someone said that was still dangerous. I was just wondering if when I get stressed out if I could use nicotine gum or something like that instead of smoking. Would that still cause problems?

[mcmama]

Quitting smoking is always best for your health. The risks of complications from some forms of birth control are increased for smokers.

Nicotine gum works for some people, but if you are only an occasional smoker you probably don't have a huge addiction and you might just go cold turkey. Maybe some other kind of gum to satisfy the craving to be doing something with your mouth.
Nicotine restricts your blood flow, and that plus the problems for your lungs caused by the actual smoking is part of the risk factor.

[twinzplus3]

Research seems to indicate that nicotine gum or something of the like still doesn't mix with birth control although it's not as bad as smoking. (I have to assume that this is because a nicotine patch or gum would have a lesser quantity of nicotine?) But the health care provider that prescribed your birth control needs to know that you smoke occassionally so that you get a low dose hormone to minimize the risk of blood clots or stroke.

[pattiewrites]

Quit or don't go on the pill. I'm serious. I've always heard of the risks, but recently I knew of someone who actually had a stroke from smoking and taking the pill. She is in her early twenties and is very physically fit and healthy. She is in the military. Yet, she had a stroke due to smoking on the pill. The risk is real and not worth it.

[MJ7]

Yes, I have heard of risks of blood clots and even a higher risk for cancer.

[TaraB]

Originally Posted by pattiewrites

Quit or don't go on the pill. I'm serious. I've always heard of the risks, but recently I knew of someone who actually had a stroke from smoking and taking the pill.

I'm not on the pill. I'm on the shot. I already quit smoking. I haven't smoked in over 2 weeks. I just wanted to know if it was safe to chew that nicotine gum stuff whenever I get stressed out. I got a pack of the gum a friend gave me. I just wanted to know if it was safe with BC.

[TaraB]

Originally Posted by MJ7

Yes, I have heard of risks of blood clots and even a higher risk for cancer.

Really? I thought the gum was harmless. Oh well... I didn't know that.

[MJ7]

Are you able to call the physician that gave you the shot and ask them? I'd be curious to know the answer too. I'm not sure which chemical eliment effects what. Good for you Tara giving up cigarettes!

[pattiewrites]

Originally Posted by TaraB

I'm not on the pill. I'm on the shot. I already quit smoking. I haven't smoked in over 2 weeks. I just wanted to know if it was safe to chew that nicotine gum stuff whenever I get stressed out. I got a pack of the gum a friend gave me. I just wanted to know if it was safe with BC.

From what I understand the pill, patch, shot and ortho ring device are all the same hormone. I would think it would not be safe if they are the same hormones. Also, the gum is only meant to be used temporarily to get off cigarettes. If you've already quit, I wouldn't do it. The gum is addicting since it also contains nicotine. Ask your doctor about the effect of nicotine combined with the shot. If you have any doubt about the safety, don't take it.

[shazbo]

i to just have a puff if really stressed .i hace been on pill for 2o years i know there are risks thats what they tell you . theres risks with every thing drinking as well . come on they blame smoking for everything . every time you go docters with some thing they asked if you smoke if yes then thats your answer