Birth Control Pill: Convenience vs Side Effects
It is estimated that 67% of all women use hormonal methods, IUDs or condoms to avoid pregnancy, About 25% of these women take the birth control pill. Birth control pills are very convenient and effective at preventing unwanted pregnancies.
Birth Control Pill: Types
- Combined … contain more than one type of female chemical hormone that mimic the effects of estrogen and progestin
- Progestin-only … contain only progestin
Birth Control Pill: Side Effects
- Potential increased risk of breast cancer and cervical dysplasia
- Potential increased risk of blood clotting, heart attack and stroke
- Increased estrogen load and estrogen dominance
- Headaches or migraines
- Gallbladder problems
- Liver problems
- Increased blood pressure
- Greater insulin release possibly leading to glucose intolerance, hypoglycemia, weight gain and metabolic syndrome
- Mood change
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Nausea, cramping, irregular bleeding or spotting
- Breast tenderness
- Contribute to nutrient deficiencies including B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, zinc, iron and antioxidants
- Cause or aggravate candida
Recommendations while on Birth Control
It is important to eat foods high in certain nutrients, and to supplement wisely, while on birth control.
It is imperative that women wishing to conceive after being on the pill first replenish the low levels of nutrients she has developed, especially folic acid. Folic acid deficiency can result in spinal cord defects in the baby.
- Consume foods high in magnesium, vitamin C, zinc, iron and vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid drink warm water with fresh lemon juice upon awakening
- Supplement with: probiotics; B complex with adequate B2, B6, B12 and folic acid; vitamin C, fish oil and iron (if deficient)
