Negative Effects of Contraception

I’m sure we have all had some kind of negative experience with contraception before, maybe a split condom or a weight gain from taking the pill. I want to discuss some of the more serious side effects and risk of using different types of contraceptives. I used the pill for nearly 6 years and since coming off it have noticed an increase in mood stability. I didn’t realise how much of a negative effect the pill was having on my mental health and it's taken a while for me to adjust to my natural hormones. Another significant change is that I now experience more painful periods and pms symptoms than I ever have before. It is important for women to understand how they are protecting themselves from pregnancy and std’s. You should talk to a healthcare provider to determine the best options for individual needs and circumstances. I would also always recommend doing your own research online before using any new contraceptive.

While contraception has many positive effects, there are some potential negative effects to consider. Typical side effects of hormonal contraceptives include; headaches, nausea, weight gain, mood changes, and decreased libido. Whilst these are very common, I don't think they should be normalised as they can seriously alter a woman's quality of life, mental health and self image. Hormonal contraceptives contain synthetic hormones that can affect the levels of Estrogen and Progesterone in the body. Some women may experience mood changes, such as depression, anxiety, or irritability, as a result of hormonal fluctuations. Having serious effects on women's mental health, you may not even realise how much your contraception can affect your mood. Taking breaks and trying new contraceptives is a good way to get a better understanding of your body and how your natural hormones affect your mental health.

There are also some more serious health risks associated with hormonal contraception, they have been linked to an increased risk of blood clots, multiple types of cancer, strokes, and heart attacks. It's important to always research before putting anything in your body, especially something that can alter your hormones and put your life at risk. Using condoms or tracking your menstrual cycle are the only ways to protect yourself from pregnancy whilst avoiding the potential health risks and side effects that come with hormonal contraceptives.

Remember condoms are the only form of contraception that protects you from STI’s and STD’s! You should never feel pressured by a man not to use a condom or pressured to start using hormonal contraceptives. Your health is more important and ultimately he probably isn't the sexual partner for you if he can’t value your health and respect your body.

Contraception is often the responsibility of the women, we are the ones who can become pregnant so we must protect against it. Many may want to argue this and be annoyed at the lack of male contraception and think it's unfair, as valid as this is it doesn't change the reality or shift the responsibility. Ultimately as women we have been given the gift of creating life and with this great power comes responsibility. Health over lust, I'm not suggesting abstinence as it's quite unrealistic and human for us to explore our sexuality and share intimate moments with others. However, being selective of your sexual partners, putting you and your body first and always researching before starting a new contraceptive is essential to practice safe sex and self love.

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Here are a few links to further your knowledge on the types of contraceptives and their effects.

NHS Contraception Guide: www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/

Contraception comparison: www.sexwise.org.uk/contraception/which-method-contraception-right-me

Contraception Advice: https://onlinedoctor.lloydspharmacy.com/uk/contraception-advice

The Pill: ​​www.healthline.com/health/birth-control/how-long-is-too-long-to-be-on-birth-control

If your interested in exploring natural contraceptive methods I would recommend tracking your cycle and using condoms. Tracking your cycle can also help you get a better understanding of your body and how your hormones affect you. Here are some links to great apps and website that can help you.

Flor App Period Tracker: app.flo.health

Tampax Period Tracker: www.tampax.com/en-us/period-tracker/

What is Menstruation: www.nhs.uk/conditions/periods/fertility-in-the-menstrual-cycle

Understanding your cycle: helloclue.com/articles/cycle-a-z/the-menstrual-cycle-more-than-just-the-period