Forced To Be The Mafia King's Bride (by Oma Green) novel Chapter 232

Gianna's POV

"All right, Gianna, everything looks perfect." Dr. Reeves set down her tablet and smiled warmly across the desk. "Your physicals came back excellent. Blood work, vitals, everything. You're healthy and good to go."

I exhaled, releasing some tension I hadn't realized I'd been holding. "That's a relief."

"So let's talk about what brought you in today." Dr. Reeves leaned back in her chair, relaxed and unhurried. "Vera mentioned you wanted to discuss contraceptive options?"

"Yes." I folded my hands in my lap. "I'm married, but I want to finish school first. I'm not ready for... I mean, eventually, yes, but not right now."

"That's completely reasonable. You're what, twenty?"

"Twenty-two."

"Plenty of time." Dr. Reeves pulled something up on her screen. "Let's go through your options. Since you mentioned wanting something noninvasive, we can focus on those. The pill is the most common. You take it daily, at the same time every day. It's very effective if you're consistent."

"What if I forget?"

"That's the main drawback. You need to be disciplined about it. There's also the patch. You change it once a week. It goes on your skin and releases hormones steadily. A lot of women find it easier to remember than a daily pill."

I considered this. "The patch sounds simpler."

"It can be. You put it on your arm, your abdomen, or wherever is comfortable, and you're covered for a week. Three weeks on, one week off for your cycle. The efficacy is the same as the pill, over ninety-nine percent if used correctly." Dr. Reeves studied my face. "Any concerns about hormonal methods in general?"

"Like what?"

"Some women experience mood changes, slight weight fluctuation, or changes in their cycle. Everyone is different. Some women say the patch tends to have fewer side effects than the pill because the hormones are absorbed through your skin rather than going through your digestive system first."

"Okay." I nodded slowly. "That sounds good then. The patch."

"Perfect. I'll write you a prescription, and we'll have you start it on the first day of your next period. In the meantime, you'll need to avoid sex or use backup protection until you've had the patch on for a full week. That's how long it takes to become fully effective."

I bit my lip, looking down at my hands. "It's just... we're still on our honeymoon. We just... we just started being intimate. And a week seems..." I trailed off, heat flooding my face. "What's backup protection?"

Dr. Reeves chuckled softly, her expression understanding. "Condoms."

"Oh." My face burned hotter. "My husband isn't really a fan of those. Is there any other option?"

Dr. Reeves nodded, her smile knowing. "I see. The waiting period can be difficult for newlyweds. Let me offer you an alternative. I can prescribe the pill for you to start immediately. You'll take it at the same time every day, and after seven days of consistent use, you'll be fully protected."

Relief flooded through me. "Really? I can start today?"

"Yes. The timeframe is the same as the patch, seven days, but you can begin right away instead of waiting for your next cycle. If you find the daily routine challenging, you can always switch to the patch later."

"That's perfect. Yes, the pill then."

"Good." She made notes on her tablet. "I'll send the prescription to the pharmacy downstairs. You can pick it up on your way out and start tonight. Take it at the same time every day. Set an alarm on your phone if you need to. After seven days, you're protected."

"What if I miss a day?"

"If you miss one pill, take it as soon as you remember. If you miss two or more, use backup protection for seven days while you get back on track. Consistency is key."

"Okay." I felt myself relax completely. "Thank you, Dr. Reeves."

"Of course." She stood and extended her hand. "Vera speaks very highly of you, by the way."

"I'm fond of her too."

"Welcome to the family, then." There was something knowing in Dr. Reeves' smile. "Take care of yourself. If anything feels off with the pill, call me immediately."

Vera was waiting in the consultation room down the hall, flipping through a magazine. She looked up when I entered and set it aside. "How did it go?"

"Good. Really good." I sat down beside her. "Dr. Reeves is great."

"She's the best. I've been going to her for fifteen years." Vera studied my face. "You got what you needed?"

"Yes. The pill. I can start tonight."

"Smart choice." Vera's approval was evident. "You finish school, establish yourself. There's no rush for babies."

I hesitated. "I do feel slightly guilty, though. Dante wanted another child. A sibling for Arielle."

"He does." Vera's expression softened. "He's always wanted a big family." She reached over and squeezed my hand. "But you're young. Finish school, settle into married life, and then, when you're ready, you give him that baby he wants."

I nodded slowly. "You're right."

"Of course I'm right." Vera tilted her head, studying me. "You know, I've noticed something these past few days."

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