8 min read (1586 words)

A Personal Journey

For 14 years, I relied on hormonal contraceptives, experiencing firsthand their profound impact on women’s health. While these medications serve as essential birth control for some and provide relief from severe menstrual symptoms for others, their potential risks often remain undiscussed. Through both personal experience and subsequent research, I’ve discovered concerning effects that deserve closer examination.

Throughout my twenties and early thirties, I struggled with a constellation of symptoms: heart palpitations, digestive issues, diminished libido, and depression. Most alarmingly, I faced repeated abnormal cervical screenings over 14 months, culminating in surgery to remove pre-cancerous cells. Only after discontinuing the Pill and delving into health studies did I begin to understand the possible connection between these issues and hormonal contraception—a link that went unacknowledged during countless GP consultations.

Understanding Hormonal Contraceptives

The Mechanism

Hormonal contraceptives—whether pills, injections, implants, vaginal rings, or patches—operate through synthetic hormones such as oestrogen (estradiol) and progestogen (progestin). These medications create hormone levels approximately four times higher than natural levels, effectively suppressing communication between the brain and ovaries.

The contraceptives work in multiple ways:

• Disrupting normal reproductive system function
• Thickening cervical mucus to impede sperm movement
• Altering the womb lining to prevent fertilisation
• Reducing testosterone production, which may affect libido and natural lubrication

From a biochemical perspective, these medications simulate pregnancy to prevent conception. Importantly, while using hormonal contraceptives, true menstruation ceases; the monthly bleeding represents medication withdrawal rather than a natural cycle.

Health Implications

Mental Health

Professor Jayashri Kulkarni, Director of Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre, highlights depression as a significant concern. Her 2017 research revealed numerous cases where young women’s mental health declined specifically after starting particular contraceptive brands. A comprehensive study of 23,000 users found that over one-third discontinued use due to depressive symptoms.

Physical Health Risks

Liver Health

The liver must process these synthetic hormones, potentially leading to increased risk of benign tumours such as adenomas and hemangiomas, which occasionally become malignant.

Gallbladder Issues

Research indicates that hormonal contraceptive users face 2.5 times higher risk of gallstone development, with risk increasing alongside duration of use.

Bone Health

Studies suggest certain hormonal contraceptives may cause significant bone mineral density loss, potentially irreversible upon discontinuation.

Cancer and Cardiovascular Risks

In 2002, synthetic oestrogen used in these medications was officially classified as a known human carcinogen. Research has linked it to increased risks of breast and uterine cancer, stroke, and blood clots.

Fertility and Reproductive Health

Dr Eric Odeblad’s research suggests that prolonged use may impact fertility through degradation of cervical mucus quality. His findings indicate that each year of use effectively ages the cervix by an additional year, potentially affecting future conception abilities.

Weight Gain / Headaches / Fluid Retention / Nausea / Brittle Bones.

The additional strain from processing hormonal contraceptives can lead to various symptoms. Weight gain, mood swings, and migraines may arise or worsen if these issues predated the use of hormonal contraception. Alexandra Pope, co-founder of the Red School and author of The Pill: Are You Sure It’s for You?, stated, “Studies have shown that some hormonal contraceptives cause significant loss of bone mineral density, which may not be fully reversible when a woman stops taking them.” Research indicates that third-generation oral contraceptives, available since 1985, carry a higher risk of blood clots.

Microbiome issues

Hormonal contraception can reduce microbial diversity, contribute to leaky gut, and create an environment conducive to yeast overgrowth. Many women who have used hormonal contraceptives for years experience digestive issues, including leaky gut. One effective way to repair gut damage is a 24-hour water fast. This fasting period releases stem cells into the gut, helping to repair the mucosal lining and reset the microbiome. Practising a weekly 24-hour water fast can significantly improve gut health and address many other issues caused by hormonal contraceptives.

The Brain

A 2014 report from the US National Library of Medicine raised concerns about hormonal contraception’s impact on brain structure, function, and behaviour. Researchers linked synthetic steroids in hormonal contraceptives to both masculinising and feminising effects on the brain. By 2014, hormonal contraceptives had been available for over 50 years, with 100 million women using them worldwide. Hormonal contraception is being made readily available to girls as young as 10 years old. Researchers have called for further studies to explore the potential societal impacts of these behavioural changes.

Balancing Hormones

More girls and women are prescribed the Pill to ‘balance’ hormones or ‘regulate’ their cycles. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often receive the Pill to alleviate symptoms. While it can reduce symptoms, the Pill merely masks underlying issues. Upon stopping, symptoms frequently return, sometimes even worse than before. Contrary to common belief, the Pill does not truly balance hormones or treat reproductive health issues.

Getting the Support you Need

When facing menstrual cycle problems, it can feel hopeless, as if nothing will alleviate our physical and emotional pain. I empathise; I have been there too. Many women express dissatisfaction with the support from health professionals, who often suggest that menstrual issues are something to endure and prescribe hormonal therapy. However, this is not the only path, and natural methods can promote healing. Understanding your body and practising menstrual cycle awareness, alongside knowing which foods and herbs benefit you, can aid in the natural healing process. While it requires effort and dedication, it is possible to restore hormonal balance and lead a fulfilling life.

Many menstrual cycle issues may stem from long-standing societal shame and suppression of our cycles. Ignoring our cycles can lead to psychological and physical stress. Lisa Higgins, a Menstruality Mentor and trainee Counsellor, stated, “Removing the shame [around the menstrual cycle] would save lives.” This powerful sentiment resonates deeply. By bringing awareness to our cycles, we can rebuild our relationship with them and, over time, transform our experiences for the better.

Alternative Methods of Birth Control

If you feel ready to come off hormonal contraceptives, you’re not alone. Many effective non-hormonal contraceptive options are available, including condoms and diaphragms. Alisa Vitti, a women’s hormonal health specialist, provides a detailed overview of seven non-hormonal birth control methods for those interested in exploring their choices.

Natural fertility awareness is gaining popularity, although it can seem daunting at first. In essence, there is a limited window during which pregnancy can occur. Natural fertility awareness teaches you to recognise your body’s natural signs of fertility, primarily through observing cervical mucus.

While our reproductive systems are complex, they provide clear signals that indicate fertile and infertile times in our cycles. Embracing natural fertility awareness encourages us to become attuned to our bodies on a daily basis. I recommend exploring resources from Billings Life to learn more about this method.

Recovery After Discontinuation

The transition off hormonal contraceptives typically requires patience. Many women experience a three-month or longer adjustment period as their bodies re-establish natural rhythms. This period may involve both physical and emotional changes, but understanding these as part of the healing process can help manage expectations.

Conclusion

While hormonal contraceptives serve an important role in reproductive healthcare, their wide-ranging effects warrant careful consideration. By understanding both benefits and risks, women can make more informed decisions about their reproductive health. The key lies not in viewing our natural cycles as problems to solve, but in working with our bodies to achieve optimal health.

The journey toward hormone-free living may challenge us, but it also offers an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of our bodies’ natural rhythms. Through this awareness, we can build a more balanced and harmonious relationship with our reproductive health.