The invention of the birth control pill took women’s rights to a whole new level, empowering women all over the globe to take control of their future via the prevention of unplanned pregnancies. Little did we all know that this revolutionary pill also offered a plethora of health benefits for women. In fact, if you think back to the first time you signed up for the pill, do you remember the real reason behind this empowering move?
A 2011 study by Guttmacher Institute proved 58-percent of pill users rely on the method for purposes other than birth control. So, let’s dive in and see what some of the most common reasons women are taking the birth control pill.
Endometriosis management
Endometriosis is a debilitating disease that causes painful cramps, irregular bowel movements and even infertility. Women with endo tend to experience more symptoms around the time of their monthly flow. Thankfully, endometriosis normally responds to estrogen and progesterone, aka the hormones contained in the combined oral contraceptive pill, so the pill can be used to control periods and suppress symptoms of endometriosis.
Acne control
Oh, puberty! It’s a phase of life that is equal parts liberating and embarrassing. Liberating for the personal growth of becoming a woman. And, embarrassing for a tonne of reasons, including acne breakouts (reminder; acne is totally normal and sometimes controllable with the birth control pill). Step in; the birth control pill with its ability to slow down the body’s production of sebum (the naturally occurring oil that causes pimples) and voila; there’s your acne control plan, right there!
Period manipulation
Periods are inconvenient; there, we said it. If only there was a way to skip, delay or stop your period altogether. Oh, wait, there is! That’s right, ladies, the birth control pill is the perfect way to safely manipulate your cycle to align with your social calendar. The pill allows you the freedom to bleed on your terms, so you can have your trip to Hawaii and be totally carefree, too. Just make sure to check in with your doctor to confirm skipping your period is safe for you.
Relieve symptoms of PMS
Three letters that many women are familiar with; P-M-S. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a condition that affects a woman’s emotional health, physical health, and behaviour in the lead up to ‘that time of the month’. Symptoms of PMS include cramps, anxiety, irritability, and mood swings. When birth control pills are regularly taken, the risk of heavy bleeding is decreased. A lighter period means less cramps and hormonal fluctuations (see-ya mood swings).
Reduce risk of anaemia
It makes complete sense that heavy menstrual bleeding can increase a person’s risk of anaemia. When someone loses a lot of blood, there’s no coming back from that. And, if there aren’t enough red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body, weakness and fatigue may strike (collectively or in unison). Taking birth control pills may lower the risk of heavy bleeding by preventing ovulation and thinning the lining of the uterus. A lighter period equals less blood loss. We’re sorry, Mean Girls, turns out you may be able to help it if you have a heavy flow.
This blog is designed to be informative and educational. It is not intended to provide specific medical advice or replace advice from your medical practitioner.
References:
- https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-pill/what-are-the-benefits-of-the-birth-control-pill
- https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/contraception-the-pill
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/3977-birth-control-the-pill
