Pregnancy prevention isn’t the only perk that comes from taking hormonal birth control. Many women use these contraceptives for the other numerous health benefits they provide. Fortunately today’s market includes a wide range of options to fit individual lifestyles and reach as many women as possible. Pills, patches, rings, and shots all have benefits in addition to keeping plus signs from popping up on pregnancy tests.
The potential benefits range from small to large. As a birth control user, you can expect to see a decrease in breakouts and increased control of your cycle. You could also be helping to prevent and manage certain diseases. Here are five benefits of taking birth control besides preventing pregnancy.
1. Preventing and Treating Acne
Birth control has a long and deserved reputation for clearing up skin, especially when it comes to hormonal acne. Breaking out around your chin and mouth are the most common signs your pimples are caused by a hormone imbalance. These types of flare ups often come with painful blemishes that form deep cysts underneath the skin. They are almost impossible to treat topically, so you have to go to the root of the issue.
Consider opting for a birth control prescription if you’re struggling with pesky and painful zits. Birth control will especially help you control breakouts if you typically deal with them during or right before your period. Monitor your skin’s appearance to see if there is a correlation with your time of the month.
2. Possibly Preventing Some Cancers
Lowering the chances of developing some cancers is one of the biggest health benefits associated with birth control. Hormonal birth control is linked to reducing the risk of ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer. In fact, women who have taken oral contraceptives have a 30 to 50% lower risk of developing ovarian cancer. This type of cancer is relatively rare, but your chances of developing the disease increase with age. Ovarian cancer can also be difficult to detect and to treat.
The risk for endometrial cancer reduces at least 30% for women who’ve used oral contraceptives compared to those that haven’t. The risk reduction becomes greater the longer the birth control is taken. This isn’t just the case for active users. The effects may also last for several years after a woman stops taking these contraceptives.
3. Helping to Reduce Painful Periods
Birth control may alleviate some of the worst and most painful parts of having a period. The pill helps reduce uncomfortable cramping, since it typically lightens your flow and stops ovulation. Cramping can be debilitating for some women and hormonal birth control is one of the most recommended treatments.
Some studies show that birth control might also be beneficial in preventing menstrual migraines. Pay attention to what time of the month your headaches occur if you suffer from this condition. Speak with your healthcare provider if you notice a link to your menstrual cycle. Birth control will likely be suggested as an effective treatment option.
4. Managing Certain Health Conditions
Many women battle certain long-term health conditions that could be helped by taking birth control. This includes endometriosis, anemia, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Endometriosis is an extremely painful condition where tissue lining the uterus grows outside of the organ. Since birth control pills allow you to skip periods, it can be helpful in managing the disease.
Missing out on menstruation is also beneficial for those battling anemia and experiencing heavy periods. Some types of birth control have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating PMDD. This condition is a more severe form of PMS. Both come with emotional and psychological symptoms that can be damaging to a woman’s overall wellbeing. Managing these conditions is essential to many women’s overall mental health.
5. Gaining Control Over Your Cycle
Getting your period can really throw a wrench in your plans. No woman wants to have to deal with an annoying period during a fun vacation or big life event. Taking birth control gives you control over your cycle. Your period doesn’t get the right to dictate your schedule. You can skip the placebo pills in your pack, if you’re looking to avoid menstruation.
Some birth control methods can mostly eliminate periods altogether. The ring and patch are especially leaned on to assist women in skipping that time of the month. You can select which one is right for you based on your lifestyle. Bleeding doesn’t have to be something you dread every single month.
Controlling Your Health and Your Choices
Birth control gives women the power to decide when and if they want to be mothers. Hormonal contraceptives also provide you with power over your health and schedule. Birth control pills, patches, rings, and shots can be conventionally obtained. Online healthcare providers have changed the game and made it possible to easily take charge of your health and cycle.
Birth control comes with numerous benefits that can help make your life a little bit easier. You won’t have to run out for a box of tampons or pads if you can skip your period altogether. Consider getting a prescription if you are looking to take more control of your health and your cycle.