Understanding Conventional Hormonal Birth Control

Conventional hormonal birth control methods, such as the pill, patches, and intrauterine devices (IUDs), work primarily by manipulating the body’s hormonal balance. These methods introduce synthetic hormones—typically estrogen and progestin—into the bloodstream. This hormonal alteration effectively suppresses the natural hormonal cycle, preventing ovulation.

How It Works:

1. Suppression of Ovulation: Synthetic hormones inhibit the brain's signals to the ovaries (luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone), thereby preventing the release of eggs.

2. Altered Menstrual Cycle: Without ovulation, the typical menstrual cycle is disrupted. What women experience as a "period" while on hormonal birth control is not a true menstrual bleed but rather withdrawal bleeding. This occurs when the synthetic hormones are temporarily withheld (often during the placebo week of a pill pack), prompting the body to shed the uterine lining.

Potential Health Risks:

Short-Term Risks:

- Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, headaches, mood swings, weight gain, and breast tenderness.

- Increased Risk of Blood Clots: Certain hormonal contraceptives can elevate the risk of venous thromboembolism, especially in specific populations (e.g., smokers or those over 35).

Long-Term Risks:

- Hormonal Imbalances: Prolonged use may lead to long-term hormonal imbalances that could affect menstrual cycles post-discontinuation.

- Impact on Fertility: Some studies suggest that long-term use may impact fertility, although most women regain normal ovulation soon after stopping.

- Potential Increased Risk of Certain Cancers: Research has indicated associations between long-term use of hormonal contraceptives and increased risks of breast and cervical cancers.

While hormonal birth control is effective for pregnancy prevention, it’s essential to understand how it alters the body’s natural hormonal landscape and the potential health risks associated with its use. Women considering or currently using hormonal birth control should weigh the benefits and risks of conventional birth control vs practice for the fertility awareness method and using a natural form of birth control