Lifestyle
5 questions to ask your doctor before starting birth control

It’s normal to have questions about what birth control method is right for you.
Starting birth control is a big decision, and it can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure what questions to ask your doctor.
With so many options available, from pills and patches to implants and IUDs, it’s understandable if you’re feeling confused or anxious.
Finding the right method isn’t just about preventing pregnancy; it’s also about making sure you feel comfortable and healthy with your choice. Your doctor is there to guide you, but it’s important to come prepared with questions that address your concerns, lifestyle, and future plans.
1. What types of birth control are available?
When it comes to birth control, one size does not fit all. Ask your doctor about the different methods available, such as the pill, IUD (intrauterine device), patch, ring, implant, or shot.
Different types of birth control [VFCCenter]
Your doctor can explain how each method works, how effective they are, and what the pros and cons are. For example, if you prefer something long-term, an IUD might be a better option. But if you like having more control, the pill could work well.
2. What are the possible side effects?
Every type of birth control has possible side effects. Some people may experience nausea, headaches, weight changes, or mood swings, while others have no side effects at all. It’s important to ask your doctor about what you might expect. If you’re sensitive to hormones, your doctor can suggest non-hormonal options, like the copper IUD. Being aware of side effects in advance can help you know what to look out for and decide what you’re comfortable with.
ALSO READ: If you’re switching your birth control method, here’s all you need to know
3. How will birth control affect my period?
Birth control can change your menstrual cycle in different ways. Some methods may make your periods lighter or stop them completely, while others may cause irregular bleeding at first.
Ask your doctor these important questions [iStock]
If having regular periods is important to you, make sure to mention this to your doctor. They can help you choose a method that aligns with your preferences. If your periods are painful or heavy, certain types of birth control may even help reduce those symptoms.
4. Will birth control interact with my current medications or health conditions?
If you have existing health issues, like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of blood clots, some birth control options may not be safe for you. Also, if you’re taking medication for any condition, ask whether it might affect how well your birth control works. Your doctor can guide you to options that won’t interfere with your health or current treatments. Safety should always come first when choosing birth control.
5. What happens if I want to get pregnant in the future?
You’ll need to ask how quickly you can become fertile again after stopping birth control. Some methods, like the pill or the patch, allow for a quick return to fertility, while others, like the shot, may take longer.
If you’re thinking about starting a family in the future, talk to your doctor about which birth control options will work best for your timeline. Planning ahead can make transitioning easier when the time comes.
ALSO READ: 7 natural contraceptives to prevent pregnancy
This content was created with the help of an AI model and verified by the writer.
#questions #doctor #starting #birth #control
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Lifestyle
Why you should avoid borrowing money from loan sharks

The rise of loan sharks in Nigeria has become unimaginably high. There are now so many that you can hardly go a whole week without getting at least one message from a loan shark inviting you to take a loan.
But here’s free advice—don’t! Yes, you heard that right. The best way to deal with loan sharks is to avoid taking any loans from them at all.
Remember, loan sharks are unlicensed money lenders who charge very high interest rates and sometimes use threats and violence to frighten people who can’t repay their loans.
Today, let’s focus our attention on all the numerous reasons you shouldn’t borrow money from these loan sharks.
They typically have a high and unimaginable interest rate
This is, in fact, the most obvious characteristic of loan sharks. While licensed money lenders will charge you minimal interest over a long time, loan sharks charge you outrageous interest over a short time.
They play on borrowers’ desperation to request outrageous interests that often surpass the initial money collected.
ALSO READ: Court orders arrest of top bank officials over ₦1bn loan scandal
You’ll get threatened for not paying on time
Loan sharks are known for their insults and threats. They teach their workers and loan collectors to be uncouth and aggressive. So, once your loan is due, they’ll call you and begin raining insults and threats.
Some don’t even wait until the loan is due. Remember, they’re unlicensed and can’t recover loans through legal means. So, they’ll instead opt for significant threats to scare borrowers. If you can’t stand these threats, you better avoid them altogether.

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They’ll defame you
Yes, we know how friendly loan shark agents can seem to appear when advertising their platforms to you. But don’t fall for it. They’re also some of the most aggressive organisations out there.
Things can quickly turn south when you don’t pay on time. And, of course, you know that unforeseen circumstances can cause you to delay repayment. Some will go as far as copying the contacts from your phone and sending them unsolicited messages and calls that defame your character.
Borrowing puts you in a circle of debts
ALSO READ: 92 loan companies secure full approval to operate in Nigeria as registration deadline nears
We once created a support group where victims shared their stories about their experience with loan apps. Unfortunately, most people agreed that once they fell into the loan sharks trap, leaving was almost impossible.
They found themselves borrowing from more sharks to settle other loan sharks. This means they’re forced to pay outrageous interest across different platforms. No doubt, this can quickly eat into your personal finances, causing you sadness and depression.
So you see, nothing good ever comes out of these loan sharks. Instead, if you need money to solve a problem, approach family and friends for help. Or contact legitimate borrowers to avoid falling into the unending cycle of facing embarrassment from loan sharks.
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Lifestyle
5 hotspots in Lagos you should avoid walking alone at night

Let’s face the fact—there’s a worrying increase in crime in Lagos. Yes, the city is the commercial hub of the country, so it attracts many people from different parts of the country.
Unfortunately, this has caused the city to become overpopulated, and with overpopulation comes an increase in crime. In recent times, there has been an increase in complaints about violent crimes like extortion, rape, kidnapping, carjacking, and armed robbery.
In fact, armed robbers go as far as targeting passengers in vehicles in an attempt to grab their possessions and run away with them. This has caused Lagosians to be weary of where they go or pass when walking alone.
But what happens if you’re new in Lagos and don’t have the needed orientation to navigate Lagos streets? Well, here are dangerous hotspots you should be careful of or totally avoid, especially when walking at night.
ALSO READ: Lagos Police deny claims of high crime rate, assure the public of strong security
Ikeja under bridge
The sheer number of people walking around this area makes it a soft target for pickpockets and armed robbers, especially at night.
These criminals typically deploy different tactics to distract and dispossess their victims. So, instead of thinking you can outsmart them, it is often better to avoid this location.
Oshodi under bridge
Here’s another hotspot for criminals whose job description is to stay on the tail of their victims until they’re able to dispossess them of their possessions.
ALSO READ: Lagos residents demand functional street lights on Ikorodu Road to curb crime

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These criminals are often armed with knives, guns, and different types of weapons. Security agents usually warn residents to be extra vigilant while passing through this area and to avoid it entirely at night.
Ojodu-Berger
This area has suddenly grown to become one of the most dreadful areas in Lagos. Criminals pretend to be regular commuters here until they spot something valuable with you. In fact, there was a recent report of a woman whose bag was snatched at gunpoint.
Her bag contained a considerable sum of money belonging to her boss. She was lucky to recover her belongings, but you may not be fortunate. So it’s better to avoid the area altogether at night.
Shomolu-Bariga
Every Lagos OG knows these two spots. They’re known to have the highest number of street urchins in the state, and we often hear stories of residents being robbed on their way to or from work.
In fact, it’s so bad that there are sometimes cases of daylight robbery while people go about their business unconcerned. So unless you’re a trained martial artist, please avoid this area or walk in groups.
Mile 2
Talk about traffic robberies to anybody in Lagos, and they’ll likely mention Mile 2. This place is popular for this kind of crime. Armed criminals often capitalise on the traffic gridlock that this place has become accustomed to rob unsuspecting passengers. They even go as far as smashing side windows to gain access to car passengers.
ALSO READ: Ghost ships of Lagos, a haven of crime
We know you can’t be too careful when avoiding crime in Lagos, but you can’t throw caution in the wind, either. Avoid these places at night, especially if you’re walking or driving alone, to avoid encountering street criminals.
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Lifestyle
Before you use that hair relaxer, read this

A Boston University study found that women who use hair relaxers more than twice a year or for over five years have a 50% increased risk of uterine cancer.
Black women often have thick, textured hair, and many turn to hair relaxers for a sleek, smooth, and soft look. However, research now shows that these chemical products pose serious health risks, including an increased chance of developing hormone-related cancers.
ALSO READ: Meet the man with the longest hair in the world
Dr. Onyinye D. Balogun, a radiation oncologist at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, cautions:
These straighteners have already been implicated in breast cancer, ovarian cancer — and now in uterine cancer. Even though more evidence is needed, we need to sit up and pay close attention.
The Harmful Chemicals in Hair Relaxers
Relaxers contain harsh chemicals that break down the natural structure of curly hair to make it straight. Some of the most concerning ingredients include:
Formaldehyde – A known carcinogen also used to preserve dead bodies.
Phthalates, Parabens, and Bisphenol A (BPA) – Chemicals that can disrupt hormones and increase the risk of cancers.
Lye (Sodium Hydroxide) – A strong alkaline substance that can cause scalp burns and permanent hair loss.
READ MORE: The most expensive primary school in Nigeria where they pay ₦30m for tuition
When applied to the scalp, these chemicals can be absorbed into the bloodstream, disrupting the body’s natural hormonal balance and increasing cancer risk.
Between 2017 and 2022, Nigeria was one of the leading countries for relaxer sales growth, according to Euromonitor and millions of women continue to use these chemical treatments despite the growing health concerns.
If you currently use relaxers, consider reducing the frequency or stopping altogether. Try:
Protective Styles: like Braids, Twists, Locs, Wigs and weaves.
Silk Press: Use a blow dryer and flat iron to straighten natural hair without chemicals. When done correctly, it gives a sleek, relaxed look but reverts back after washing. To prevent heat damage, always use a heat protectant.
Keep Your Natural Hair: Instead of using relaxers, try deep-conditioning treatments and hair masks to soften and define your natural curls.
Texturizers (Mild Chemical Alternatives): Texturizers loosen curl patterns rather than straightening hair completely. While they still contain chemicals, they are less harsh than traditional relaxers. However, they should still be used with caution.
Heat-Free Stretching Methods: If you prefer a straighter look but want to avoid heat damage, try African threading, Twist-outs and braid-outs.
READ MORE: This is why Celestians walk barefoot to church

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