Students heading to the Health Center for contraceptives this year should be sure to consult their doctors before filling prescriptions, even if the scripts are provided by Health Center employees.
Many recent studies highlight the side effects of birth control, which, like all medication, vary depending on the brand. At AU, the Student Health Center offers only two brand-name contraceptives, Desogen and Cyclessa, both of which have been linked to an increased risk of blood clots.
AU students looking for a safer option can choose from a variety of generics. Since they're not name brand, these drugs run cheaper than Desogen's $25 a month price tag. But they come with side effects as well. Choosing the right method often hinges on each woman's personal health history.
The bottom line: students need to be talking with their doctors - and not just the nurse practitioners at the Health Center. It's a good policy (and sheer common sense) to ask questions before starting contraceptives or other medicine plans.
As an alternative to the Health Center, there are many doctors located right in AU's neighborhood. Gynecologists are available at Sibley Hospital and in the medical center on New Mexico Avenue, so ladies, there really is no excuse not to go.
