Unveiling the Top 5 Side Effects of Birth Control: What Your Healthcare Professional Should Inform You
As one of the most widely used contraceptive methods, the oral contraceptive pill (OCP) has become a go-to solution for women dealing with reproductive issues. However, the overprescription of synthetic hormones raises concerns about the potential side effects that often go unnoticed. In this blog, we shed light on the top five health concerns associated with birth control pills, emphasizing the importance of being informed about the possible implications for your body.
Influence on Partner Selection
Hormonal contraception can impact your body's natural ability to seek a compatible life partner, potentially leading to attraction towards genetically similar individuals, such as relatives. Studies indicate that women on the pill may undergo a shift in preference towards partners with similar histocompatibility complex genes (MHC). This could unknowingly impact the future of relationships and family planning decisions.
Changes in Brain Structure
Surprisingly, the OCP can alter a woman's brain structure. A study in 2016 revealed that women on hormonal birth control had significantly lower cortical thickness measurements in specific brain regions associated with responding to rewards and evaluating stress. These changes can be linked to feelings of depression, anxiety, and motivation.
Impact on Digestive Health
Oral estrogen in contraceptives has been linked to modifying intestinal permeability, potentially increasing the risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Research has shown that patients exposed to OCP have a 30% higher risk of developing IBD compared to those not on the pill. Symptoms of IBD include diarrhoea, constipation, stomach pain, cramping, bloating, fatigue, reduced appetite, and blood in the stool.
Increased Risk of Depression
A groundbreaking study by JAMA Psychiatry in 2016 found that girls and women using hormonal birth control have a significantly higher likelihood of being diagnosed with depression. The risk was most prominent for those using progestin-only methods like the mini-pill, Mirena, and implant. This information is vital for those making decisions about their mental health and well-being.
Nutrient Deficiencies
The OCP has been associated with lower levels of essential nutrients like folic acid, vitamins B2, B6, B12, certain C and E, and minerals like magnesium, selenium, and zinc. These deficiencies are crucial for various biochemical reactions in the body, including hormone balance, energy production, immune regulation, and cognitive functioning. Clinicians should consider dietary supplements to prevent these deficiencies.
It is essential to raise awareness about the potential side effects of hormonal contraception, particularly the oral contraceptive pill. While not opposed to the pill, it is crucial for women to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Empowering the next generation with knowledge about natural fertility methods and their body's natural flow can lead to more informed choices. To ensure a healthy and balanced approach to contraception, discuss these concerns with your healthcare professional and explore alternative options that align with your individual needs.
If you’d like more information, you can check out the links below.
https://www.un.org/en/development/desa/population/publications/pdf/family/trendsContraceptiveUs
e2015Report.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27680324
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4478200/
https://www.europeanreview.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/1804-1813.pdf
https://srh.bmj.com/content/familyplanning/29/3/127.full.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3949254/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5064836/
https://www.europeanreview.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/1804-1813.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18700206
https://www.livescience.com/4327-genetic-test-reveal-cheating-heart.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17100780