Question: I am currently taking Microgestin fe 1/20 and at the end of my fourth month on the pill during the placebo week, I noticed heart palpitations and became fully aware of my heartbeat. I was scared for the worst and went to see a physician. He did blood work and took my pulse and everything stated that I am perfectly healthy. He stated that it was due to anxiety or stress, which is extremely odd for me because I have never in my life experienced any difficulties with the way I handle anxiety or stress. I went back today and told him that and how I believed that the birth control pills are to blame. He agreed with me and thought the same thing too and told me that it is best to get off the pill altogether. Now, I do not want to solely rely on condoms for mean of protection during intercourse. Now that this has happened, I believe that the estrogen in the pill caused this. Will all combination birth control pills do this to me? Will I be advised to take Progestin only pills? Or is it just that Microgestin fe 1/20 is not right for me? Was the reason for this issue caused by the hormones in the Microgestin?

Okay, I understand, especially since I do have a history of chest pains on rare occasions. Would you recommend depo provera or the IUD?

What type of contraceptives would you recommend for someone with a history of chest pain and a family history of high blood pressure?