The Unexpected Health Benefits of the Contraceptive Pill

The modern woman is rightly very assertive when it comes to decisions on having children. Many women want to advance their careers, and they know too well how an unplanned pregnancy can stand in the way of their ambitions. Contraceptive pills are a popular birth control option. Birth control helps families plan the number of children they would like to have and how far apart they would like them to be born. Women can decide when to start and stop bearing children.

According to the World Health Organization success rates of up to 99% are achievable when used correctly, and this involves following every recommendation while using the pill. The pill is taken at the same time daily without skipping. Laxity on the part of the user increases the chances of getting pregnant.

Two hormones, estrogen and progestogen, are incorporated into the combined pill to prevent the production of eggs and their release from the ovaries. Apart from avoiding undesired pregnancies, the contraceptive pill has various unexpected health benefits, as highlighted below.

Lower Risk of Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when fertilization takes place outside the uterine cavity, especially within the fallopian tube. As the fertilized egg grows in size, so does the possibility of rupture and excessive bleeding, a life-threatening event. Using the pill prevents pregnancy, which includes ectopic pregnancies.

Regular Cycle

The use of the birth control pill helps make the menstrual cycle regular and predictable. A regular cycle makes it easy for women to plan with certainty. The pill can even help women skip periods when they stand in the way of special occasions like vacations or weddings.

Controlling Hormonal Acne

An increase in the levels of androgens (male sex hormones), results in increased sebum production. Excess sebum can clog the skin's pores leading to acne. The hormones in combined pills balance out the excess androgens leading to reduced sebum and fewer acne breakouts.

Preventing Iron Deficiency Anemia

Without iron, the body cannot produce enough hemoglobin, which means less oxygen reaches the body's tissues and cells. Heavy menstrual periods can cause iron-deficiency anemia but research shows that oral contraceptives can reduce the likelihood of anemia. Women that suffer from this condition caused by heavy chronic bleeding are often put on the pill to make menstruation lighter and rectify the iron deficiency.

Treatment of Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are common in women in their reproductive years and can sometimes grow to large sizes and cause discomfort, requiring surgical removal. Birth control pills treat ovarian cysts and prevent their recurrence.

Reducing the Risk of Acquiring Ovarian and Endometrial Cancer

Women who have used contraceptive pills are at a lower risk of developing these two types of cancers that affect the reproductive system, as shown in research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Prolonged use reduces the risk significantly, and a woman can benefit from this for many years after stopping the pill.

Relieving Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS)

PMS symptoms affect women before the onset of their menstrual period just after ovulation. They may manifest in bloating, diarrhea, backache, mood swings, tender breasts, headaches, and constipation. Since the birth control pill prevents ovulation, PMS, which is influenced by ovulation, is brought under control too.

Easing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

This condition is brought about by a hormonal imbalance resulting in excessive production of testosterone. PCOS causes acne, irregular periods, and undesired hair growth. The pill rectifies this condition by reducing testosterone levels and making periods more regular.

Managing Endometriosis

The endometrium is a tissue that lines the uterus, and it sheds during menstruation. This tissue can find its way outside the uterus and cause untold suffering. With every menstrual cycle, this tissue will bleed, no matter the location in the body, causing inflammation and pain. Pills can manage the symptoms of endometriosis by preventing menstruation all-together.

While the pill is a convenient and revolutionary birth control method, it is worth noting that it does not protect you against sexually transmitted diseases. Before taking birth control pills, consult your gynecologist for a proper health assessment and an informed selection of a method that suits you.