Blogs – by Leslie K. Hughes
Things To Consider Before Starting Birth Control
Birth control. Those words conjure up images of preventing pregnancy, right? While that is definitely a major function of birth control, many women consider birth control for a variety of other reasons beyond preventing unwanted pregnancies. From managing heavy periods and acne to addressing hormonal imbalances, birth control can offer a range of benefits. Birth Control: More Than Pregnancy Prevention Here are some of the reasons people may find themselves considering birth control. Hormonal imbalances Birth control can help regulate hormones, which can be beneficial for conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and heavy periods. Acne For many women, hormonal fluctuations are a major contributor to acne breakouts. Birth control can help regulate these hormones, leading to clearer skin. Cycle regulation Birth control may also help regulate irregular periods, making them more predictable and less painful. It can also reduce the severity of cramps and heavy bleeding. Endometriosis management By suppressing ovulation, birth control can help reduce the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, which is a key symptom of endometriosis. Perimenopausal symptom relief For women experiencing perimenopausal symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and irregular periods, certain types of birth control can provide relief. Things to Consider Before Starting Birth Control When you start any medication, especially birth control, it’s important to consider some key things. If you’re not sure what, we’ve got you covered. Here’s what you should discuss with your healthcare provider. 1. Medical history Share any family history of blood clots, heart disease, stroke, breast cancer, or other health conditions. And share your own medical history. This is the time to be open and honest about your medical history, including any existing conditions such as migraines, high blood pressure, diabetes, or liver disease. 2. Lifestyle factors Smoking: If you smoke, it’s vital you share that with your doctor. Smoking while on certain types of birth control can significantly increase the risk of serious side effects, including blood clots. Exercise: Your exercise routine can influence your birth control choices. Some methods may be less suitable if you’re highly active. Diet: Your diet plays a key role in overall health and can interact with birth control. Talk about any dietary restrictions or concerns you might have with your doctor. 3. Testing It’s important to check your blood pressure before starting birth control and to monitor it while taking it. You also want to get tested for STIs before starting birth control, as it does not protect against most STIs. And if you’re sexually active continue to get tested throughout your use of birth control. 4. Supplements Some types of birth control can interfere with nutrient absorption, including vitamin B12 and zinc. Talk about potential nutrient deficiencies with your doctor and consider supplementation like our Cymbiotika B12 or Healthy Elephants Balance B Complex. Birth control can also put a strain on your liver. You may want to consider supporting your liver function with things like the Zuma Liver Detox Tonic and the Symbi Liver Support Tea. 5. Side effects Ask your doctor about potential side effects of birth control such as: Nausea Headaches Mood changes Libido changes Also ask about more serious side effects like: Blood clots Stroke Heart attack And what warning signs to look out for. Choosing the Right Birth Control Method There are many different kinds of birth control available, each with its own set of benefits and risks. Here are the most common options. The Pill: This comes in different forms like the combination pill (estrogen + progestin) and progesterone-only. The Patch: A skin patch that releases hormones into your bloodstream. The Ring: A flexible ring inserted into your vagina that releases hormones. Injections: Depo-Provera is a long-acting injectable birth control that offers protection for three months. Implants: A small, flexible rod inserted under your skin that releases progestin for up to three years. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): Small devices inserted into the uterus that prevent pregnancy for several years. Copper IUD: A hormone-free IUD that’s effective for up to 10 years. If you’d prefer going an all-natural route, here are some ways to track your hormones and know when you’re ovulating. If you’re TTC, these methods will help you determine when you’re most fertile and the best time to have sex. If you’re not trying to get pregnant, these natural approaches will let you know when to turn to other forms of birth control like a condom to avoid pregnancy. Fertility Awareness Method (FAM): This natural birth control method works by tracking your cycle and fertility signs. Here are some of the key things to track: Cervical mucus: When you’re ovulating and fertile, your cervical mucus will be sticky and like the consistency of an egg white. You can see the discharge in your underwear and also place it between your fingers to see. Basal body temperature (BBT): Measure your temperature every morning immediately upon waking up. Ovulation causes your BBT to rise. Fertility Hormone Tracker: This method of birth control involves using a device to help you track the levels of your fertility hormones. They work by testing your hormones multiple times a month using pee strips. There are lots of options for hormone trackers including Inito, Mira, Clearblue, and more. To learn more about how to natural birth control methods, read our article on how you can track your fertility naturally. Starting birth control is a very personal decision. By carefully considering your unique needs and discussing your options with your healthcare provider, you can make an informed choice that best suits your health and your lifestyle. If you’re looking to get pregnant or stop taking birth control for other reasons, be sure to check out our article on how to get off birth control.