Pill or No Pill: Navigating Your Birth Control Options
Blue pill or red pill? How about the birth control pill?
Contraception, or birth control, refers to the devices or methods used to prevent pregnancy. These methods work by either stopping the release of an egg (ovulation), blocking sperm from reaching an egg, or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. Choosing the right birth control method is a crucial decision that can impact your health and lifestyle!
This blog is your guide to navigating this choice, giving you the inside scoop on hormonal birth control, its side effects, and alternative options. Our aim is to empower you with the knowledge you need to make the best informed choice for your body and wellbeing.
The Birth Control Pill
Oral contraception (the birth control pill) is the most commonly used form of hormonal contraception, and is 99% effective when used consistently and properly! That means taking one pill everyday, and at the same time everyday.
There are two versions of the pill: combination (which contain estrogen and progestin) and progestin-only. Both versions prevent pregnancy by releasing hormones that stop ovulation and thicken the cervical mucus, creating a hostile environment for sperm.
Oral birth control typically comes in a pack of 21 or 28, containing both active and hormone-free or ‘placebo’ pills. Contrary to popular belief, the bleeding experienced during the placebo week is not a true menstrual period — it’s actually a withdrawal bleed! The drop in hormone levels signals the body to shed the uterine lining, mimicking a natural period.
The IUD
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are nifty little guys; These T-shaped plastic devices are placed into your uterus and are 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. There are two versions of the IUD: hormonal and copper.
Hormonal IUDs (such as Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla) work by releasing progestin into the body. This process thickens the cervical mucus, trapping sperm and preventing it from reaching the egg. Additionally, progestin can stop an egg from being released from the ovary, so there’s no egg available for fertilization. Depending on the specific brand of hormonal IUD, this option can last anywhere from 3-8 years.
Copper IUDs do not contain any hormones. Instead, they are wrapped in a small amount of copper. Copper is kryptonite to sperm — it naturally repels sperm, making it impossible for sperm to get to the egg. Paragard is an FDA approved copper IUD option, which lasts up to 12 years.
The Implant
Nexplanon, or the birth control implant, is a thin matchstick-sized rod placed under the skin of your upper arm. Like the pill and the hormonal IUD, this method works by steadily releasing progestin into the body. The birth control implant is a 99% effective ‘set it and forget it’ option that lasts up to 5 years.
The Cons Of Hormonal Birth Control
Let’s talk about the other side of the coin… the cons of hormonal birth control. While some may never experience side effects, many women have reported the following symptoms, regardless of whether they are on the pill, have an IUD, or an implant:
Headaches
Spotting
Breast tenderness
Nausea
Abdominal cramping
Decreased libido
Mood swings
Acne (check out our favorite blemish support)
Weight changes
Hair growth
Changes in vaginal discharge
Beyond side-effect city, hormonal birth control can also mask underlying conditions! While the pill can provide relief for heavy periods, PMS symptoms, acne breakouts, or mood disorders, it alone doesn’t address the root problem.
Heavy periods may be linked to a thyroid issue, and PMS symptoms could be exacerbated by elevated cortisol. Mood changes can result from a hormonal imbalance, and breakouts can stem from imbalances in the gut microbiome. We need to take a closer look at the underlying reasons — thoroughly assessing hormone levels, thyroid function, and lifestyle factors to address the actual causes!
An Alternative To Hormonal Birth Control
The Fertility Awareness Method, or natural family planning, is an empowering tool that can help you track your menstrual cycles and better understand your body. You can do this pen-and-paper style (with a physical calendar) or with a cycle tracking app like Clue, Flo, or Natural Cycles.
Charting your menstrual cycle, checking the consistency of your cervical mucus, and taking your basal body temperature (your resting temperature, measured first thing in the morning) daily can help you to pinpoint your follicular phase, luteal phase, and fertile window. [Read this blog to learn more about your fertile window!]
Individuals who are in-tune with their bodies, are consistent with tracking their cycles, and experience regular cycles may confidently use FAM as an alternative to hormonal birth control. This requires abstaining from unprotected sex during the fertile window, or diligently using barrier methods of birth control, such as condoms or diaphragms, to prevent pregnancy in this window.
Finding The Right Solution For You!
Hormonal birth control isn’t a bad option! But sometimes it’s presented as the only option, and it may not always be the right option for you. When it comes to choosing the best birth control (or even alternative options) for your health and fertility goals, it’s important to always talk with your doctor.
At ISAIH Natural Medicine, we’re here to empower you in your health and fertility goals. Together, we’ll mitigate the risks (like undesired side effects and pregnancy) and find a birth control solution that’s best for you!
Ready to get started? Click here to learn more about our process and become a patient!
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