After the long and tiring labor of love called giving birth, the last thing I wanted is to get pregnant AGAIN (there are some Moms who don't mind going for seconds or thirds right away). I went to my ob-gyne for a prescription for the pill and advice on other contraceptives as soon as I could walk. She prescribed Yasmin (and told me to watch out for the new pill Yaz which was not available in Hong Kong yet at that time). Unfortunately, I am one forgetful Joneser and always forget to take it at the right time so I've given up on this method.
My husband was asking me to consider the coil so I had to research about it. What I like about this method is I would not get pregnant until I take the tiny umbrella-looking device out. The coil lasts for 5 years. Perfect eh? Not really. I'm a bit queasy about it being placed inside me and the permanent string hanging out (just like the tampon). Also scared about the side-effects. My doctor advised I just take the pill first and call her back to schedule an appointment for surgery if I decide to be "coiled." Say what, surgery? I don't think so!
Another friend of mine also recommended the Nuva-ring. The what? NuvaRing® (etonogestrel/ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring) is a contraceptive that comes in the form of a flexible vaginal ring. It mainly prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation, but also works by altering the cervical mucus and the lining of the uterus. NuvaRing is inserted into the vagina once a month, left in place for three weeks, and then removed for a ring-free week (during which you will have your period). Potential side effects of this form of birth control include vaginal irritation, headaches, and weight gain. Got it? This "ring" seems convenient for someone like me who always forgets the pill but weight gain? Yikes! My friend and her co-workers in the US take this and swear by it. I wonder if this is available in Hong Kong. Oh the troubles of being a woman... I guess I should just leave it up to the forces of nature!
It's been a year since I gave birth and I am still not ready for another child. I used to say that one is enough... although two is not bad. My daughter has an older half-brother and I consider him mine too so there goes two. But, he is not always around and sometimes I feel that she is happier with a playmate (she screams like crazy when she sees other kids). Hmm... okay, maybe after a few more years... and a million dollars after that! Now, that's challenging!
No wonder the Hong Kong government has to encourage couples to have children by lowering their taxes (more children equals less tax to pay). It's just not second nature to Hongkies to have children, given the stressful work environment and the high cost of living. Don't bother asking how much the tuition fee is in an international school. Gosh, maybe I am living in the wrong side of the planet! It's not exactly family-land over here...
i can't wait for baby number 2. hehe
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