The post Why Isn’t There a Birth Control Pill for Men? appeared first on Best Health.

Now, Pines is 49 and shes back on the pill, this time to help with heavy, erratic periods, hot flashes and night sweats. Despite her prior experience, Pines was willing to try the pill again because her perimenopause symptoms were so disruptive. On top of her physical symptoms, Piness mental health was declining, too. Plus, she remembers how awful menopause was for her mom. That was my biggest fear. I was like, I cant go through that. She was such a terrible person to be around.

Piness doctor prescribed her a low-dose birth control pill. But after just six months, Pines was feeling extremely anxiousand wasnt getting much relief from her other symptoms. So, she did what many people with a health problem do: She turned to Google. I had a really hard time finding anything about [anxiety and the pill], but some people on Reddit said they were also experiencing anxiety, she recalls. She went back to her doctor and got on a different brand. And while the new pill is now providing some relief, she finds herself experiencing breakthrough bleeding and severe migraines every six weeks. The anxiety hasnt let up. She plans to ask her doctor for a non-pill alternative soon.

Unfortunately, Piness experience isnt uncommon. Mood-related issues like anxiety and depression are all too familiar to people on the pill. The thing is, its extremely safe and, when taken correctly, spectacularly effective at preventing pregnancyfactors that might help to explain why mood changes are brushed off as unimportant or not real.

The pill has been around now for so long, its one of the most researched medications, says Cynthia Graham, a professor of sexual and reproductive health at the University of Southampton in the U.K. Its the behavioural effects, how people feel, that were lacking research in. More extensive research is imperative: Several recent studies have shown that hormonal contraceptive users have higher rates of depression, anxiety, fatigue, sexual disturbances and anger. They confirm what Pines and many other women experience. But compared to the efficacy and physical safety of the pill, cognitive and sexual side effects often arent taken seriously, says Graham, even though theyre one of the biggest predictors of quitting the pill.

Since the pill was first made legal, weve witnessed how much better the world is when people have access to safe and effective birth control. And yet, despite its long history, we still dont know much about the pills effects on mental health, mood and libido. How, more than 60 years on, is that possibleand how can we make the pill even better?

—

The pill is the most popular form of hormonal contraceptive in Canada: About three-quarters of Canadian women have taken it at some point in their life and, globally, 151 million people are on the pill. Its popularity can be attributed to its effectiveness: When used perfectly, its 99 percent effective, and even with imperfect use, efficacy still hovers around 91 percent. And despite the rise of newer hormonal contraceptive options like IUDs, the patch and the implant, which are also highly effective, the pill is still very popular, especially for young people. In Canada, about 30 percent of teens between the ages of 15 to 19 are on the pill.

Its called birth control, but many people are prescribed the pill for non-contraceptive reasons. A 2011 study found that more than half (58 percent) of pill users dont use it exclusively to prevent pregnancy. The same study found that the most common non-contraceptive reasons for going on the pill are menstrual regulation, reducing cramps or menstrual pain, alleviating acne and treating endometriosis. And there are more benefitsthe pill can even reduce the risk of uterine and ovarian cancers and prevent the development of breast cysts.

Of course, there are downsides. Nuisance side effects like breast tenderness (which makes running even more painful) and spotting (RIP cute underwear) are quite common, especially when you first get on the pill. And then there are the rare and potentially fatal side effects, like blood clots: 10 in 10,000 people will develop them as a result of being on the pill.

In the 60s, when the first pills were being developed, they contained high doses of estrogen, which is associated with ischemic stroke and heart disease, explains Ashley Waddington, an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Queens University in Kingston, Ontario. The first brand on the market had 10,000 micrograms of progestin and 150 micrograms of estrogen; today, all the pills available in Canada are considered low-dose, meaning they contain 35 micrograms or less of estrogenand even lower doses are being experimented with right now. Adjusting doses and getting into these really ultra-low-dose estrogen pills is a trend were seeing, says Waddington.

Newer forms of estrogen that may be safer for blood clotting risks, like estradiol and estradiol valerate, are also hitting the market. Its an interesting and exciting development in birth control, Waddington says. For the last 60 years, the pills that were available all contained some dose of the same estrogen, and now were seeing different types of estrogen, which may bring in different side effect profiles.

Waddington also points to improved progestin-only pills (also called the mini-pill) as another innovation. Without the estrogen, theres less risk of clotting or cardiovascular problems, but they need to be taken within the same, precise three-hour window every day to be effective. A new progestin-only pill now available in Canada, Slynd, offers a different progestin and dosage than the mini-pill, which makes it safe but more forgiving (if you miss it by a couple of hours, itll still be effective). I think we might see a shift towards more people going directly to a progesterone-only pill and not taking the risks associated with estrogen, Waddington says.

Theres been great innovation to improve the physiological side effects of the pill, so why hasnt there been more action to address the mood-related ones? Given the long history of reproductive injustice and the struggle for accessible birth control, some might argue that looking for problems with the pill could come off as anti-pill, anti-feminist or anti-choice. Especially when the problems are, well, not fatal.

Contraceptives (and, in turn, reproductive choices) dont improve if no one thinks they need to be better, says Rebecca Sullivan, a professor at the University of Calgary who specializes in gender and sexual politics and culture. But arguing that theres something wrong with the pill feels fraught, especially as the U.S. strips away federal protections for abortions and puts access to contraceptives on the line. The thought of losing access to the pill is terrifying, says Sullivan, and rightly so.

According to Tory Eisenlohr-Moul, an assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Illinois at Chicago who studies sensitivities to hormonal shifts, another reason why theres a lack of research in mood and libido effects from oral contraceptives is the separation between gynecology and psychiatry as medical practices. The people who develop the pills are usually gynecologists and researchers focused on physical health outcomes like blood clots or cholesterol problems, she says. To my knowledge, theres no scientific group working on a new birth control method thats better for mood.

And when it comes to the sexual side effects of the pill, theres been even less work done. In an editorial written for BMJ, Graham notes that sexual side effects have been deemed extremely difficult to assess and described in the literature as trivial or a nuisance. Later in the article, Graham writes that one of the most consistent findings has been how varied peoples experiences on the pill aresome show increased libido, some show a decrease and others show no change. It will not be easy to establish whether, how and in whom the pill produces adverse sexual effects; carefully planned, adequately funded research is needed, she concludes. But as the ultimate value of a contraceptive method depends on its acceptability and usage, it is important that it is done.

—

When the pill was first legalized in the 60s, it underwent a small number of randomized, placebo-controlled trials (the gold standard for medical research) on its effects on mood and sexuality. These allowed researchers to rule out the placebo effect (thinking that a medication is affecting you even if youre taking a sugar pill), which can skew the results of a trialespecially when researching something as hard to quantify as mood and libido. However, according to Graham, most of the pill research conducted now is in the form of cross-sectional studies. These compare those who are on the pill to those who arent, but dont account for the fact that established, long-time pill-users are generally happy on it, which can skew the results in a positive direction. Plus, funding in this area is woefully lacking, says Graham, who has done research on the pill and how it affects users libido and mood. Long studies that follow users are expensive and difficult to conduct. And no one seems to want to invest the time or money.

People who do take the pill, however, are deeply invested in the matter. According to Graham, finding willing study participants has never been a challenge. I remember some women saying that they didnt want [to be paid]. They wanted the money to be put back into research, she says. They said they wanted their daughters to have more options.

Of course, the lack of funding and support for this kind of research is symptomatic of a health-care system that overlooks anyone who isnt cis, white, straight and male. For decades, women were excluded from clinical trials. The FDA in the U.S. even issued a guideline in 1977 that recommended excluding most women of childbearing potential from participating in phase I and early phase II drug research trials. Theres far less representation in clinical trials if youre not whiteeven today.

Theres also the lack of women in the pharmaceutical and medical fields. We continue to have a largely male-dominated industry and government where this just isnt a priority, says Sullivan. There are a whole bunch of factors that make it difficult to impossible to have a sustainable, flourishing research career coming up with a contraceptive that is safer and even more effective.

Laura Symul, a postdoctoral fellow who studies cycle-related symptoms at Stanford Universitys department of statisticsoften using data from cycle tracking appspoints to a lack of female lab directors, hospital CEOs and heads of clinical research as factors behind the lack of data. Those who are guiding the research, she says, dont have first-hand experience with [birth control].

Structural issues within medical research circles also move careers in particular directions. For researchers to gain promotions and salary raises and to continue to have a thriving career, they need to bring in their own fundingleading to acute pressure to secure that funding. Often, this means going after designated grants even if theyre not totally interested in the topic. Then, once a researcher does gets their foot in the door, they can fall into a pattern of pursuing similar research topics to secure more funding, sending them down a particular research and career route while their interests fall to the wayside. So, topics that arent popular, or for which there isnt express interest from others higher up, dont get investigated.

Then there are the social mores around birth control. People are still uncomfortable, says Waddington, with the idea that women can have total control over their fertility. Many still believe that it should be left up to fate or left up to God, she explains. And such moralizing about fertility can mean that advances in reproductive health become subject to questions of ethicsrather than of medicine. It just doesnt exist in other disciplines, Waddington says. Like, when somebody sees their endocrinologist about diabetes, they dont have a whole discussion about whether or not its ethical to treat it.

Lately, theres been more scientific attention paid to the ways that hormones affect mental health. A randomized study out of Sweden used brain imaging to study the hormone levels and depressive symptoms of healthy women who had previously experienced negative effects related to oral contraceptives. The researchers found a causal link between the administration of synthetic hormones and connectivity in the salience network (as in, the parts of our brain that detect significant stimuli and the integration of sensory, emotional and cognitive processes). Theres also a study out of Denmark that looked at more than 1 million Danish women and found that being on the pill was associated with a diagnosis of depression. At the University of British Columbia, Frances Chen is researching how being on the pill as a teenager might lead to a higher risk of developing MDD (major depressive disorder). While this research is still preliminary, studying the links between hormones and mental health generally will lay the groundwork for a pill designed to avoid detrimental mental health side effects.

The recent growth of personalized medications, especially customized hormone therapy to treat menopause symptoms, might also point to developments for contraceptives.Another major gap in contraceptive research is the inability to figure out how someone will react to the pill: Finding the right pill for you comes down to the imperfect science of trial and error. Its common for people to try two or three brands before settling on one that works. The big problem that we have is that we cant predict which women are going to respond in which way [to the pill], says Graham. That to me is striking after 60 years.

However, Waddington notes, there are already so many formulations and brands out there that compounded and customized birth control pills wont likely be coming to a pharmacy near you. Eisenkohr-Moul in Chicago reiterates that the companies working on [birth controls] tend to focus more on secondary health effects like blood clots and lipidsnot on mood.

Stanfords Symul says that research and development on new birth control pills and formulations is underway, but its been slow going. There are start-ups working on very innovative birth controls that arent hormonal, but research takes a long time, she explains. There hasnt been as much money or top-down approaches or a consortium working on this, says Symul. Its a lot of people trying to make their own research move forward.

—

While scientists are working to develop better birth control pills, especially ones that have fewer negative effects on mood and mental health, theres still a long way to go. In the meantime, the pill continues to be popular, both as a contraceptive and as a therapeutic for a number of painful ailments. Its still an important pillar of reproductive health.

Now, more than ever, the conversation around reproductive justice and increasing safe options is vital. We dont just need a pill thats safe and effectivethat should be the bare minimum. We need a pill that makes us feel good. Or, at least, makes us feel like ourselves.

Yes, pills are used to prevent pregnancy, but theyre also used because people want to have sex, says Graham. So if you have really bad side effects from the pill, including a loss of libidowell, as a patient once said to me, it defeats the entire purpose.

Next:What’s the Best Way to Switch Birth Control Pills?

The post The Pill Is Good. Why Isn’t It Better? appeared first on Best Health.

The type of birth control pill matters

Sex hormones, such as testosterone, are known as androgens and play a crucial role in the development of acne. Some birth control pills can stimulate the production of androgens and Nasello explains that excess can be linked to acne. Thats why, though the birth control pill can help most people with acne, Nasello says it really depends on which pill.Dr. Marjorie Dixon, CEO and medical director at Torontos Anova Fertility and Reproductive Health, agrees. [Androgens] increase oil production in the skin, which can block pores and cause acne, Dixon says. A combination pill, which contains both estrogen and progestin, is the most effective against acne because it decreases androgens in the body.In contrast, the progestin-only pill contains only one kind of hormone (progestin). This kind of pill has been known to stimulate the production of androgens, which may worsen or exacerbate acne.(Related: How Birth Control Can Impact Your Breast Size)

Give it time

If you start the birth control pill and notice your skin is the same orugheven worse, dont fret. Dixon warns it can take time for your body to adjust to the hormones.It typically takes about three months for birth control to begin exerting its acne-fighting effects, so make sure to give your prescription time to work, she says.Nasello gives the same advice and cautions that you could experience temporary acne flare-ups throughout your birth control journey if you arent dosing consistently. If this sounds like you, Nasello advises that you take the pill at the exact same time every day. For someone who just started taking the pill, it might take some time to settle into a consistent schedule, and this could contribute to hormone fluctuations and acne flare-ups during the first couple of months on the medication.In fact, if youre prescribed a progestin-only pill, its actually critical to take your pill at the same time every daynot only for your skin, but to prevent pregnancy. In addition to causing acne flare-ups, Nasello says inconsistent dosing can make the pill a less effective form of birth control, even causing other issues like breakthrough bleeding.(Related: Oily, Dry, or Irritated Skin? Theres a Skincare Acid for That)

Reminder: Birth control isnt really meant to treat acne

According to Dr. Jerilynn Prior, a professor of endocrinology and metabolism at University of British Columbia, users of the pill should know that it is designed, first and foremost, to prevent pregnancy.Although many doctors talk about (the pill) as though its standard to prescribe it for other thingsthese medicines are made for control first, not for treatment, Prior says.If you are using the pill purely for acne flare-ups and breakouts, Prior recommends that you see a dermatologist to explore your options.Next: A Decade-by-Decade Guide to Changing Up Your Skin Care Routine

The post I’m Breaking Out. Is My Birth Control to Blame? appeared first on Best Health.

Why birth control can change breasts size

Changes in breast size, specifically an increase in breast size, is a known side effect of combined birth control pills, explains Dr. Marjorie Dixon, CEO and medical director at Anova Fertility and Reproductive Health in Toronto.The hormones in a combined birth control pill, estrogen and progestin, act on the body in several ways, she says. Namely, both hormones can effect the fat distribution in your body, especially in the hips and chest. Estrogen also increases water retention, which can cause swelling throughout the body from the increased fluid, Dixon says. Both effects can contribute to increased breast size.Dr. Constance Nasello, an ob-gyn in Chatham, Ontario, also points to estrogen as the culprit for breast swelling and breast tenderness, which may lead to an increase in breast size. Although buying new bras may be inconvenient, both doctors say a change in breast size is nothing to be worried about from a health standpoint.(Related: 9 Comfortable Wireless Bras Available in Canada)

What to do if you dont want your breasts to change size

The good news: there are other forms of birth control that wont change your breast size.This effect is usually only seen when taking a combination pill, Dixon says. Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods like the IUD [intrauterine device] or implant are great options for those who would like to avoid this effect on breast size.Next: Whats the Best Way to Switch Birth Control Pills?

The post How Birth Control Can Impact Your Breast Size appeared first on Best Health.

How do medications interact with birth control?

There are some medications that can interact with the birth control pill and lessen its efficacy at preventing unwanted pregnancy. The ones that most commonly come to mind are anti-epileptic medications, says Dr. Constance Nasello, an ob-gyn in Chatham, Ontario.Nasello explains that the birth control pill and some epilepsy drugs use the same enzyme system in the liver to break down the pill. Whenever we take a medication that needs an enzyme system, our body actually increases those enzymes to help with the breakdown, says Nasello. If theres another medication that uses the same enzyme system, then you might have decreased effectiveness.Basically, some seizure medicines can lower the levels of progesterone and estrogen provided by the birth control pill, increasing your chances of ovulation and pregnancy.

So, can melatonin cancel out the birth control pill?

According to Dr. Marjorie Dixon, CEO and medical director at Anova Fertility and Reproductive Health in Toronto, the pill and melatonin supplements may interact with each other, but the mechanism behind this isnt exactly clear.There are some concerns that melatonin supplements may decrease birth controls effectiveness, although there is not much research available on this topic yet, Dixon says. The idea is that if melatonin and birth control are both metabolized by the liver, the liver must work overtime to activate both compounds.The potential drug interaction is similar to how some antibioticslike rifampicin, a medication commonly used for tuberculosiscan decrease the effectiveness of the birth control pill. However, due to the lack of research on melatonins interaction with the birth control pill, Dixon recommends that users err on the side of caution.If you are taking melatonin supplements, make sure to mention this to your doctor to ensure that youre protected from unwanted pregnancy, Dixon says. If you are currently on the birth control pill, you may want to consider switching to long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) such as the IUD, which is not metabolized by the body.

Talk to your doctor

Because the research on interactions between medications is always evolving, its crucial to talk to your doctor and your pharmacist about the medications youre currently taking before accepting a new prescription. That discussion should also include any supplements.We need to get your medical history, allergies and what medications youre taking, because those [play a very important role] in what we prescribe, says Nasello.Next: Can a Kegel Chair (Yes, a Kegel Chair) Improve Your Pelvic Health?

The post Does Melatonin Affect Birth Control? What Experts Want You to Know appeared first on Best Health.

How to make your IUD insertion hurt less

Theres a reason why IUDs are surging in popularity. IUDs are a mistake-proof, long-term form of birth control. They are more than99 percent effective, making them one of the best low-cost options out there. Plus, copper IUDs are hormone-free, makingthem an ideal choice for women looking to avoid hormones.But when it comes to IUDs, most women only have one thing on their mind. Will getting a IUD hurt?

The truth about IUD pain

Two things cause pain during IUD procedures: When the IUD is being inserted and cramping from the placement because the uterus contracts from irritation, explains Dr. Dustin Costescu, a family planning specialist and assistant professor in the department of obstetrics and gynecology at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont.He admits that the internet is loaded with IUD insertion horror stories. But similar to most things posted online, he says most people are compelled to share only their bad experiences. Also, keep in mind that studies have show that the pain experienced during insertion was significantly lower than the pain most women expect.While getting an IUD might not hurt as much as you think it will, you should still prepare for somepain and discomfort. In the next few pages, Dr. Costescu shares his 10 tips on how to make theinsertion of your IUD not hurt.(Related:What’s the Best Way to Switch Birth Control Pills?) 

How to have a less painful IUD insertion: Get a smaller IUD

If this is your first IUD and youre worried about your first time getting one inserted, talk to your doctor about smaller IUD options, says Dr. Costescu. Smaller types of IUDs, likeKyleenaand Jaydess, will make the insertion less painful.(Related:13 Things You Need to Know About Birth Control Pills)

Ask how often your doctor does insertions

When youre setting up your IUD appointment with your doctor, see if the doctor doing your insertion does the procedure frequently. People who are more experienced inserters tend to have patients that experience less pain with the placement, Dr. Costescu explains. If you’re not comfortable then ask for a referral to see a gynecologist, who may be more experienced with IUDs.(Related:Is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Right for You?)

Book your appointment just after your period

The best time to place an IUD is at the tail end of your period, or the first day or two afterward, Dr. Costescu says. Placing an IUD during or around the time of menses will hurt less because your cervix is more open (after all the open cervix is what is letting your Aunt Flow flow), he adds.(Related:The Honest, Expert-Backed Truth About Having Sex While on Your Period)

What to do on the day of your IUD insertion: Take a painkiller before your appointment

Take an anti-inflammatory like Advil prior to the insertion. This will relieve any cramping after the procedure. And it is the most effective way to manage the pain.(Related:12 Things Your Doctor Might Not Tell You About Pain Medication)

Say no to Misoprostol and cervical freezing

If your doctor gives you Misoprostol (a drugthat softens the cervix), ask them to try the procedure without medication for the first try. Various studies have shown that Misoprostol causes more discomfort and cramping during IUD insertions. And Dr. Costescu warns this drug is best used if youd had a failed attempt at a previous IUD placement.Doctors may also offer to freeze your cervix before the procedure, but any pain thats reversed from the placement is usually experienced during the freezing.(Related:Should You Visit Your Gynecologist During Your Period?)

Pack snacks

Its amazing how many people fast before their IUD insertion, Dr. Costescu says. If youre feeling tired and hungry, youre more likely to have low-blood sugar levels, which will make you feel less comfortable. And if you do get hungry before your appointment, snack on agranola bar and drink some juice. After all, no experience is a good experience when youre #hangry.(Related:11 Sneaky Reasons Behind a Missed Period (Besides Pregnancy))

Bring a heating pad

Women report that the cramps from getting an IUD inserted are similar to those from a bad period. So your go-to heating pad can help you manage the cramping youll have after the insertion takes place.(Related:We Tried Knixs Super Leakproof Period Underwear)

Staying comfortable during your IUD insertion: Just breathe

Nerves create a bad experience both for the insertion of speculum, the internal exam and the placement itself, says Dr. Costescu. (The speculum is that watergun-like device used during your annual exam and to insert an IUD.) Ask your doctor toto coach you on breathing exercises,which will help you to stay calm and relax your muscles.

Distract yourself

Many of my patients stay on their phones as a way to keep their minds of whats happening, Dr. Costescu says.Some doctors allow patients to wear headphones to listen to music. Others dont. Dr. Costescu recommendsasking if its OK beforehand, since some physicians want to talk to their patients during the insertion.(Related:49 Interesting Sex Facts You Probably Didn’t Know)

Stay motivated

In his experience, Dr. Costescu finds that women who are apprehensive about their IUDs insertion tend to feel morediscomfort. Meanwhile, women who are motivated usually find that the procedure is less painful.So if youre feeling anxious about getting and IUD, just remember why youre choosing the IUD. When you think about the positives (no hormones, no daily pills), the temporary pain and discomfort are totally worth it.Next,here’s everything you need to know about the arm implant birth control.

The post 10 Doctor-Recommended Ways to Make Getting an IUD Less Painful appeared first on Best Health.

What are the differences between the different pills?

There are two types of birth control pill: progestin (a synthetic form of progesterone) only and combined progestin and estrogen pills.Most people who are prescribed the birth control pill are on the latter. The hormones in these pills prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering, and thinning the lining of the uterus so any fertilized eggs are less likely to attach. There are many brands on the market in Canada (some popular ones include Alesse, Lolo, and Marvelon). The difference between brands usually has to do with estrogen levels and the type of progestin used. All combined pills contain the same type of estrogen [at different doses], and then theres variations in the type of progesterone they contain, says Waddington. You may hear about high dose or low dose pills, and that refers to the estrogen levels.Progestin-only pills dont contain any estrogen, which makes them safer for people who have cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, or are at a higher risk of forming blood clots. Progestin- only pills are also frequently prescribed to people who are postpartum and breast feeding. These pills dont stop you from ovulating, but it does thicken the mucus in the cervix which blocks sperm. Progesterone only pills also need to be taken at the exact same time every day to be effective, which makes them a bit harder to use correctly.There are also monophasic pills (which deliver the same dosage of hormones every day and are more common) and triphasic pills (which deliver differing levels of hormones). Waddington notesmonophasic pills are more consistent and may lead to fewer nuisance side effects like spotting and bleeding.(Related: Everything You Need to Know About Vaginal Discharge)

Do low-dose birth control pills have other benefits?

Low dose pills (which, according to Waddington, contain about 10 micrograms of estrogen) might be beneficial for people going through perimenopause (the years-long life stage leading up to menopause). As people approach menopause, theyll often experience irregular menstrual bleeding, says Waddington. A birth control pill will override the whole hormonal system that leads to ovulation and menstruation and prevent dysregulated cycles that are common [during perimenopause]. Some perimenopausal people also experience symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. A low, steady dose of estrogen from a birth control pill could improve these symptoms.

Once I’m on one brand, why would I switch?

Most people switch brands because they’re experiencing intolerable side effects, which are thought of as being caused either by estrogen or by progesterone. The ones we tend to blame on estrogen are things like nausea and headaches. Progesterone side effects are things like the sensation of bloating or breast tenderness, Waddington says.(Related: Why You Need to Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor Now)

What are some common side effects when you start a new brand?

When you switch brands, you might start experiencing a whole new host of side effects. But, unless theyre absolutely intolerable (for example, headaches that are so bad you cant function), Waddington strongly encourages people to give a new pill at least three months. A lot of side effects that people get are going to be the most pronounced [during that time] she says. Things like headaches, nausea, nuisance bleeding or spotting, those tend to get better with time.(Related: Do Pheromone Perfumes Actually Work?)

Now that youve gotten your new prescription, how do you go about switching?

First things first, its important to not take a break between brands. So, once you finish your week of placebo pills at the end of your original pack, start the new brand right away. Then there should be ongoing coverage [from pregnancy], says Dr. Waddington.Of course, thats the ideal and sometimes it doesnt work out that way. If you do end up taking some time off between brands, use another form of birth control (like condoms) for at least two weeks.And, of course, one big thing to remember with birth control pills: they dont protect against sexually transmitted infections. So, dont forget to use a barrier form of contraceptive to protect yourself from STIs.Next: Everything You Need to Know About the Arm Implant for Birth Control

The post What’s the Best Way to Switch Birth Control Pills? appeared first on Best Health.

Who is and isn’t a good candidate for Nexplanon?

Most people are good candidates. There are very few contraindications to it, but there are a couple things to keep in mind. If somebody has a hormone sensitive tumour, like in breast cancer, I would not want to recommend this method to them. Also, it’s meant to be long-acting, which is not to say it can’t be used by someone looking for a more short-term solution, but if someone told me theyre looking to get pregnant in six months, I might think about a different method for them.(Related: Am I Crazy for Trying to Get Pregnant During a Pandemic?)

Where in the arm is it inserted?

Its inserted just under the skin in the upper-inside part of your arm. It goes about five millimeters below the skin, so it’s really kind of hidden. It’s not recommended to be put in some other part of the body.

How big is the rod? Can you feel it?

It’s really smallabout the size of a matchstick. If you feel for it, you should be able to find it, but it wouldn’t be bothersome to you.

How is it implanted?

Its done in a clinic by a health care provider. So, you get some local anesthetic, or what we sometimes refer to as local freezing, and it’s inserted with a little insertion device (that looks kind of like a stapler), which helps make sure the implant is inserted at the correct angle.

Do you need stitches?

The incision would be so tiny that, typically, you wouldn’t need any stitches.

Is there any recovery time?

Not really. Its common to have a little bit of bruising at the site where it was inserted. There might be a little bit of soreness there for the first day or two. You wont need to take time off work or anything like that, and you can go back to your activities with no restrictions.

Can you work out soon after getting the implant?

Yeah! If your arm is a little bit sore and bruised, you might take that first day off from an arm workout. But once it’s been in place for 24 hours and feels comfortable, the arm can be used again in a normal fashion.

When does it start working?

It starts to work within a few days of being inserted. We always recommend either overlapping the previous birth control method by a week, or using a backup method such as condoms for a week after the implant is inserted. It is important to note that it does not prevent sexually transmitted infections, and so condom use is always encouraged to reduce the risk of acquiring an STI.(Related: 11 Things to Know Before Going Off Birth Control)

What if you dont like it? Can you have it removed soon after it was implanted?

Yes! If you don’t like it for any reason, you could just go back to your health care provider to have it removed.

What are the common side effects?

Bleeding and spotting irregularities, which is really common with all progestin-only methods of contraception. It doesn’t mean it isnt workingit could just be a nuisance. Occasionally, some people experience headaches, but that’s not very common.If you’re having a lot of pain at the insertion site, the implant may have moved. Bring that to the attention of your health care providerbut thats not something that’s likely to happen.

Do you still get your period?

The bleeding pattern can vary widely. You would not expect to get a regular monthly period with it in place because it is suppressing ovulation. Some people will have no bleeding at all with it in place, and others may have occasional light bleeding or spotting. Most often, the bleeding pattern that people experience in the first 3-6 months is predictive of what the bleeding pattern will be over the course of the 3 years the implant can stay in place.If someone has been using this method for weeks or months without any bleeding and they suddenly develop new bleeding, they should be seen by a health care provider to investigate the cause (such as being screened for STIs).(Related: Amy Schumer Wants to Talk About Your Period)

Are there any risks for choosing this implant during the pandemic? What if we go into another lockdown and it’s hard to have in-person access to a doctor?

Once it’s in place and working well, there’s not a lot of risk to having it in. What can be challenging during a pandemic is finding the resources to get it.

How do you find someone to administer it?

The first thing you would do is contact your health care provider and see if that’s something they’ve already done or if they have plans to do it. If not, then they may refer you to somebody that’s been trained.

How is it removed?

A health care provider would administer a little bit of local anesthetic, and then make a really teeny little incision, like much less than a centimeter, just about two or three millimeters at the very tip of where the rod is. Then we can pull it out from under the skin.

How soon after getting it removed can you get pregnant?

Right away! It has no long-term effect on a person’s fertility.(Related: Why You Should Be Tracking Your Menstrual Cycle)

How much does it cost?

The cost is about $300-$350 depending on the pharmacy and dispensing costs. There is no cost to have it inserted or removed, as that is done by a health care provider.This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.Next: What Ob-Gyns Want You to Know About Fertility

The post Everything You Need to Know About the Arm Implant for Birth Control appeared first on Best Health.

There are two kinds of IUDs

Copper IUDs are the conventional form of the contraceptive. This T-shaped device with strings attached is inserted into the uterus by a doctor to prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. The copper IUD can be left in place for three to five years.Hormonal IUDs, such as Mirena, release a low dose of progestin directly into the uterus. This device is also T-shaped, has strings attached and is inserted into the uterus by a doctor. It can remain in place for five years.

IUDs don’t cause pelvic infections

“There’s a misconception that IUDs cause pelvic infections, but that’s not the case,” says Dr. Sheila Dunn, research and program director at the Bay Centre for Birth Control in Toronto. This birth control method got a bad rap in the 1970s because of a model that was on the market at the time called the Dalkon Shield. “The string on the Dalkon Shield was a braided, thick string and if you got an infection, even vaginally, the string could introduce it into your uterus and it could turn into a serious uterine-pelvic infection,” says Malhotra. However, the strings on today’s IUDs are very thin and can’t carry infections. “There’s also been a lot of research conducted over the last few years that has shown that IUDs do not increase your risk for pelvic infections, even if you have an STI,” she adds. However, there is a slightly increased risk of infection associated with the insertion of the IUD and in the first 20 days after the procedure.

Most women can use an IUD at any age

In the past, IUDs weren’t recommended for younger women who had not been pregnant. However, Dunn says that’s not the case today. “IUDs are a very acceptable method for women whether or not they’ve had a previous pregnancy,” she says. Malhotra notes that she inserts IUDs for women of all ages, from teenagers up to women who are menopausal. “The majority of my patients who use IUDs have not had children,” she says.

The hormonal IUD is as effective as getting your tubes tied

The Mirena is 99.4 percent effective in preventing pregnancy and tubal ligation (sterilization) is 99 percent effective. However, while getting your tubes tied is considered permanent birth control, you can become pregnant as soon as you remove the IUD. (Related: Here’s what an ob-gyn wants you to know about fertility.)

Using an IUD won’t make you infertile

“It was thought that if you got an STI it would latch on to the IUD and cause a pelvic infection that would make you infertile, but that’s been squashed,” says Malhotra. While an untreated STI can cause an infection that may lead to infertility, the IUD has been shown to have no impact on the progression of the infection. Note that like any form of birth control that’s not a condom, IUDs do not protect against STIs.

The hormonal IUD causes fewer side effects than the pill

“Short-term bleeding, breast tenderness and acne are the most common side effects I see, but they usually go away in the first three or four months. After that side effects are minimal to none,” says Malhotra.She adds that progesterone released locally into the uterus has health benefits beyond birth control. “Progesterone is very good for your uterus because it can prevent and treat many pelvic diseases,” she says. Those include heavy menstrual bleeding, polyps, fibroids, and pre-cancerous lesions of the uterus.Although the copper IUD does not release any hormones, it is associated with increased menstrual bleeding and more painful cramping during periods. (Related: These are the period mistakes you’re making every month.)

There are ways to make IUD insertions more comfortable

Some women may experience a sharp pain or cramping while the IUD is being inserted, but there are ways to make the process more comfortable. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of freezing your cervix or using tablet to open it up overnight. Malhotra also suggests taking ibuprofen about 10 minutes before the procedure to alleviate some of the discomfort.

There are some risks associated with IUDs

If you do become pregnant while using an IUD, there is a high risk that the pregnancy will be ectopic that’s when a fertilized egg begins to develop inside the Fallopian tubes and not the uterus. Though this condition is treatable, it can be fatal to a woman if not attended to by a doctor.There is a one percent chance of a perforation of the uterus (minor trauma to the uterus) when the IUD is inserted. This risk increases slightly in the extremes of reproductive ages (younger and older women) when the opening of the uterus (the cervix) is thicker or the uterus itself is thinner.Bottom line? If you’re looking for a new method of birth control, an IUD could work for you. Talk to your doctor about whether it’s a good option.Next, find out what you need to know before going off of birth control.

The post 8 Facts About IUDs You Should Know appeared first on Best Health.

Make sure it’s your decision

Coming off birth control is a big life change for women, says Sarah Yamaguchi, MD, an OB-GYN at Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles, California. Some women go off birth control because they don’t like the side effects or they’re trying to get pregnant. If its the side effects influencing your decision, there is usually another contraceptive option that will work for youjust ask your doctor, says Dr. Yamaguchi.

Your body doesn’t “need a break”

The best reason to go off your current birth control method is in hopes of getting pregnant, says Sherry Ross, MD, an ob-gyn in Santa Monica, California. I know some women like to go off their current birth control method to give their body a break. Its a medical myth that you need to go off the pill to give your body a break.

You dont want to quit mid-pack

I recommend not stopping the pill in the middle of a pack, but finishing the current pack, Dr. Ross says. This can keep from drastically dropping your hormone levels unnecessarily, which could lead to mood swings, headaches, and breakouts. There is no prep needed before going off the pill other than taking the pill every day as prescribed until the pack runs out, according to Dr. Ross. The pill contains hormones that normally allow for a period, and thats the time to end it.

(Learn why women are ditching the pill for FemTech.)

You may be in for a rude awakening

I recommend trying to remember how you felt before you started on birth control so you will be prepared for what to expect, Dr. Yamaguchi says. For women whove only been on the pill for a few months or a year, its easy to remember what their cycles were likewith cramps and cravings, for example. A lot of my patients get more discomfort with ovulation and heavier menses as they get older, so if its been 10 years of their being on the pill, they can be surprised at how bad their symptoms can be when they are naturally cycling, Dr. Yamaguchi says.

You may bleed moreor less

The most common side effect of going off the pill is a heavier period, but thats not the fault of the pill. Birth control pills help make your period more predictable and also lighter, Dr. Yamaguchi says. Its a common misconception that stopping birth control pills triggers heavier, more painful periodsits just that your body has been getting treated for these symptoms but you didn’t know. Stopping any form of hormonal birth control, including the Nuva Ring, the Patch, or a hormonal IUD, such as Mirena, will likely also cause heavier bleeding. With the removal of the copper IUD, however, which doesnt have hormones, you will likely return to a lighter period, as the copper IUD tends to cause heavier bleeding. Stopping the use of the implants Nexplanon or Implanon may cause your menses to return to normal if they changed when you started birth control. (Here’s what else you need to know about IUDs.)

You could get ovulation pain

If you suffered from PMS, cramps, or painful twinges during ovulation, expect that those will come back if youve been on the pill or another form of hormonal birth control. It is also common to get more cramps when youre off the pill, Dr. Yamaguchi says. Some women will experience more PMS symptoms or more symptoms of ovulation. Try these novel treatments for period pain reliefno ibuprofen needed.(Here are the best exercises to ease period pain.)

You could get pregnant immediately

Some women assume theyre protected for a period of time after going off the pill or having an IUD removed, but dont fool yourself. Dr. Yamaguchi warns her patients that there is very little “washout” period, so they should definitely use some method of birth control if theyre not looking to start a family. The moment you stop using birth control, you can get pregnant, so plan accordingly.

You might need more vitamin D

A 2016 study from the National Institutes of Health published in theJournal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolismlinks pill use with higher levels of vitamin D. Women taking oral contraception have higher levels of vitamin D compared to women not taking the pill, Dr. Ross explains. There is a positive association between women taking the birth control pill and having higher levels of vitamin D, which is important in your overall health and well-being. Dr. Yamaguchi recommends making sure that if youre aiming to conceive, that you choose a prenatal vitamin that contains vitamin D. The news could also have implications for postmenopausal women who are at greater risk for osteoporosis, as estrogen and low vitamin D can both contribute to bone loss.

Even stopping condoms has an impact

If you are stopping condoms, you may experience more vaginal infections, as semen can cause changes in the vaginal flora and raise your risk of either yeast infections or bacterial vaginitis, Dr. Yamaguchi says. If you are stopping the diaphragm, however, there is not much change. (Psst: Learn how you can get your birth control pills delivered right to your door with Canada’s new telehealth company.)

You might need a post-pill checkup

Dr. Yamaguchi recommends that you see your doctor if you have very heavy periods or severe cramping, if you dont get your period in three months after stopping your birth control, or if anything else seems off. The pill is the treatment for myriad problems in women, so many women don’t realize they have things like severe PMS, polycystic ovarian syndrome, dysmenorrhea, endometriosis, or mittelschmerz [pain associated with ovulation] until they come off the pill, she says. Some of these things are benign but can still cause a lot of stress and anxiety if you don’t know what they are.

Medically reviewed byTia Jackson-Bey, MD.Next, learn why it’s time to review your birth control options.

The post 11 Things to Know Before Going Off Birth Control appeared first on Best Health.

Is it safe to get a prescription without an in-person doctor visit?

With Felix, yes. The company follows Ontario and British Columbias healthcare laws and regulations (currently, Felix is only available in Ontario and B.C.) to make this process completely safe. We chose to concentrate on birth control, erectile dysfunction, acne, and hair loss because these categories lend themselves very well to telemedicine, says Zien. This means that an in-person visit is really not required from a medical perspective. Instead, a consultation is completed through the company website, it is reviewed by a licensed healthcare practitioner, and if a medication is prescribed, its filled by a registered pharmacist.

Aside from not having to see a doctor, what makes this process convenient?

Felix is making the pharmacy pick-up less of a hassleby eliminating it altogether, says Zien. The medication is delivered directly to you. Theres also the option to subscribe to auto-refills, which is helpful since all the medications Felix offers are intended for recurring use.

Am I actually able to get the best prescription for me without having an in-person appointment?

The assessment Felix has users complete is as thorough as a chat you’d have with your doctor at an appointment. For example, in the assessment for birth control pills, users are asked if they have ever gotten an aura headache from birth control pills in the past. If answered yes, users are automatically denied a prescription since “medications that contain estrogen are not recommended for patients who experience migraines with auras,” says a pop-up on the website, which also includes a list of alternative contraceptives. For the acne assessment, users are asked to upload photos of their skin for the doctor to review. This way, the healthcare practitioner can accurately determine if the topical treatment will be effective for the type of acne the patient has.

What type of birth control can I be prescribed?

We offer all oral-based birth controlthe most commonly used in Canada, says Zien. But if you dont see what youre looking for, you can request it from the doctor. Not sure which ones right for you? The doctor can suggest one for you. We are about to start supporting more versions of birth control like NuvaRing and the patch Evra, says Zien. Our goal is to give the same variety and the same selection youd get at any pharmacy.

What type of acne treatment can I be prescribed?

At the moment, Felix only offers the topical treatment Tretinoinbut its one of the most popular and effective acne treatments today. Its a first line of defense for someone who wants to deal with mild acne issues, says Zien. Were expanding our acne offering, but typically, Tretinoin is the topical that dermatologists recommend as a starting point.

Why may I be denied these medications?

About 10 to 15 percent of users are denied medications, and that would be due to a variety of health reasons, like drug interaction, says Zien. The doctor you do your consultation with is making the decision, and that doctor is going to make the same decision as they would at a traditional in-person visit, says Zien.

Is it possible to chat with the doctor?

There are open fields in the assessment where you can write your questions for the physician. They can respond to it, and ask you any questions they may have regarding your assessment, through the messaging platform built into the website. The chat can be in real-time or it can be asynchronous. Once the user gets through their online visit and submits their assessment for review, our physicians typically review those requests within an hour or two, says Zien. This is when the interaction can take place, and both parties can have their questions answered. If the doctor is satisfied, they can prescribe the medication.

Is this covered by insurance?

Although the $40 consultation fee for the assessment is not covered, the prescription is valid for one year. And medication can be covered with the user’s private insurance plan or provincial health insurance plans.What’s more, the Felix website has some “built-in logic” that tells users if they may qualify for any provincial coverage.

Also, Felix waives the consultation fee if a prescription request is denied, says Zien.

The assessment collects a lot of personal health infowho has access to this?

The personal information gathered is encrypted and only visible between the user and the Felix physiciannot even the Felix team can see it, says Zien. Even if we wanted to, we couldnt see any personal health information.

Do the doctors suggest natural remedies or lifestyle choices before prescribing the topical cream for acne?

The assessment includes lifestyle questions, including which drugs, vitamins and supplements the user is currently taking. The doctor reviews this, and sometimes advises the user to have a conversation with their family care provider, says Zien. “We also ask about stress, and address that as a cause where applicable,” adds Dr. Kelly Anderson, medical director at Felix.

Do the doctors check up on patients?

All Felix users have the opportunity to reconnect with the physician who prescribed their medication with follow-up questions, says Zien. Whats more, Felix provides access to the pharmacy available five days a week, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST, and users are welcome to call the pharmacy to ask questions about the medications their taking. To help eliminate questions after taking the medication, users are given a treatment plan in the dashboard of their Felix profile where the physician provides instructions on when to use the medication and when to evaluate if its working or not, says Zien.

What other conditions will Felix be offering medications for in the future?

The Felix team is excited to help people manage symptoms associated with cold sores and herpes. They affect a large percentage of the population, and there is no cure, so its something you can only really treat with effective medication, says Zien. The cold sores/herpes medication that will be prescribed, if the user is eligible, isvalacyclovir. Its an antiviral treatment that is to be used at the first sign of an outbreak (the tingling) to shorten the duration, minimize the severity of symptoms, and speed up healing.

Next, learn why some women are ditching the pill in favour of birth control apps to prevent pregnancy.

The post A New Telemedicine Company for Lifestyle Meds Launches in Canada appeared first on Best Health.

Birth control has allowed us to take control of our lives in a real wayby providing room for thoughtful family planning. However, many of us were placed on birth control (probably the pill) by a doctor when we were in our teens or early twenties and haven’t thought much about it since. If its been working for you, it might not seem like such a big deal. But, there’s a new campaign that’s making us think twice about our options.

The goal behind #MEandIUC is to educate and encourage women to make informed decisions about their birth control and to spread awareness about IUCs or intrauterine contraception. “This is a form of self-love and self-caretaking control of your future by putting yourself first and making informed birth control decisions, says Christina G. Cheng, a spokesperson for the campaign. The young mom knows the importance of birth controlshe’s had a multi-disciplinary creative career in the wake of her teenage pregnancy. Cheng is helping to encourage women explore their birth control options, no matter what stage they’re at in life.

Many of us have gotten comfortable with one method of birth control and dont want to go through the growing pains of a new one. But reevaluating your options means youre benefiting from health care that’s evolving and more effectiveas long as you’re using it correctly.Below, the questions you need to ask yourself about birth control.

Am I using birth control correctly (and effectively)?

The effectiveness of various birth control methods depends on whether it is used correctly or not, says Dr. Sarah Warden of Womens College Hospital. We tend to quote typical use effectiveness rather than perfect use rates. If youve ever forgotten to take your pill (thats about 88 percent of millennial Canadian women) you know what shes talking about.I always tell patients that the best method of birth control is the one that works the best for them and that they will remember to use correctly, says Dr. Warden.

Am I using the best option for me?

Understand your choices (and know that condoms should always be used to help prevent against STIs).

IUCIntrauterine Contraception works by hormone (like the pill) or non-hormone ways to either prevent ovulation or make the uterus extremely inhospitable for sperm. Its effectiveness rate is over 99percent,it’s safe,and it almost completely eliminates human error because its inserted into your cervix and stays there for up to five years.

The IUD is a great choice for many patients as there is little to no user error involved, says Dr. Warden. You dont have to think about it or remember anything other than the date you need to replace it byIt really is an insert and forget about it method.

Youll need to have it inserted by a doctor, and there are some who report a painful experience (here’s how you can make it hurt less), but more and more women are becoming champions of the method. Even more to consider? The Canadian Pediatric Society and the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists have both published guidelines stating that IUDs should be the first choice in all adolescent and adult women, regardless of their obstetric history, says Dr. Warden. (Also, here’s even more you should know about IUDs.)

The PillWith perfect use, the pill is over 99percent effective at preventing pregnancy. But, this means you need to take it every day, at the same time, without fail. When you factor in human error that number drops to about 90 percent.

The pill has some fun side effects (more regular cycles! Less acne! No more painful cramps!) for many, but it also works by preventing you from ovulating through the use of hormones. What’s more, the pill masks menstruation symptoms, when they could (and should) be addressed and treated directly. (See why women are ditching the pill in favour of birth control apps.)

The Rhythm MethodThis method is about tracking a womans cycle and using abstinence on fertile days to prevent pregnancy. It has a better effectiveness rate than you might thinkbetween 80 to 87% when done correctly.

CondomsThanks to an awkward run-in with a banana in sex ed, most of us know what a condom is and how it works. (For the newbies: Condoms work by physically blocking the sperm from getting to the egg. Its placed on the penis and catches the sperm.)

When used correctly, condoms have about a 98 percent effectiveness rate and have the added bonus of helping to prevent against STIs. (See why STIs are on the rise.) But that typical use rate drops to about 85% because, shocker, humans arent perfect.

Pulling OutPulling out, or removing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation occurs, has a typical use effectiveness rate of about 80 percent. Its best used in combination with other methods of birth control than on its own as it relies on accuracy to work.

Am I understanding the importance of effective birth control?

I wish women would acknowledge that making informed birth control decisions is a form of self-love, says Cheng. “Self-love includes choosing the birth control that is right for you, so you can stay focused on your goals and navigate your life journey with intention.

Next, know the facts every woman needs to know about her fertility.

The post It’s Time to Revisit Your Birth Control Options—in the Name of Self-Love appeared first on Best Health.

The post Why Women are Ditching The Pill in Favour of Birth Control Apps to Prevent Pregnancy appeared first on Best Health.

Birth control may not be all its cracked up to be…

It’s almost a no-brainer that certain habits can increase our risk of cancer. Most of the time, however, those vices are fairly self-explanatory. Smoking, skimping on sunscreen, and heavy drinking can all increase your chances of developing the disease, for example. But now, research has revealed a rather shocking source of cancer, and one that few would think could increase their risk: hormonal birth control.A massive new studysuggests that women who take even low doses of birth control could have a higher risk of developing breast cancer, NPR reports. But thankfully, the increase is small enough that those who use hormonal contraceptives shouldn’t have serious concerns.

Why birth control can increase your risk of developing breast cancer

The research, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, gathered data on 1.8 million women between the ages of 15 and 49. Then, a research team compared the breast cancer rates between women who used hormonal birth control and those who used non-hormonal contraceptives such as condoms or a copper IUD over 11 years.Ultimately, the results showed a 20 percent elevated risk of breast cancer for women who used any form of hormonal contraception. The risk continued to rise the longer the women used birth control, too. (Here are 8 things you should know about IUDs.)But this isn’t a sign to flush your pills down the toilet. Keep in mind that breast cancer is quite uncommon among women in the age group studied to begin with. “A 20 percent increase of a very small number is still a very small number,”Mia Gaudet, an epidemiologist with the American Cancer Society, told NPR.In fact, you are just as likely to increase your breast cancer risk through physical inactivity, excessive weight gain in adulthood, or drinking an average of one or more alcoholic drinks per day, as you are by hormonal contraception, according to Gaudet.Still worried about your risk? Consider the data. “The absolute increase in risk (found in the study) is 13 per 100,000 women overall, but only 2 per 100,000 women younger than 35 years of age,” epidemiologistDavid Hunter, an epidemiologist at the University of Oxford, wrote inan editorialthat accompanied the study.”Most of the cases that occurred in this analysis occurred among women who were using oral contraceptives in their 40s.”That said, experts recommend comparing the pros and cons of hormonal birth control and talking to your doctor before making any drastic changes to your contraceptive regimen or it could throw your hormones out of whack.

The post If You Take Birth Control, You Could Have a Higher Risk of This One Cancer appeared first on Best Health.

Saying Goodbye To Periods

Stopping your period, also known as period suppression,is a matter of personal choice, says Dr. Roger Pierson, director of research in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Saskatchewan. “There is no known benefit [to stopping your period], but there’s also no known health risk,” he says.Here are some facts to help you make your decision.

Is Stopping Your Period Even Possible?

While every woman’s body reacts differently,using any kind of combined hormonal birth control continuously will usually suppress menstruation, says Dr. Amanda Black, an Ottawa-based OBGYN andmember of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada’s (SOGC) extended hormonal contraception guideline committee.Birth control patches, pills and vaginal rings will all stop your period if you use them every day without a break. The hormone injection Depo Provera and the hormonal IUD (Mirena) may also suppress menstruation. However, Seasonale is the only birth control brand specifically marketed for extended-cycle use. Approved by Health Canada in 2007, these pills are designed to give the user just four periods a year.

The Truth About Natural Periods

“Some people think that it’s natural to have a period every month when they are using birth control. But,it’s not a real period that you’re getting,” says Black. When you stop taking the birth control pill for seven days, you’re having a hormone-withdrawal bleed. This bleeding simulates what happens at the end of a regular menstrual cycle when estrogen and progesterone levels drop.Meanwhile, when you take contraception continuously, you’re maintaining steady levels of those hormones. This means thatwithdrawal bleeding does not occur, says Black. So when you use birth control continuously, you’re suppressing withdrawal bleeding, not a natural period.

The History Of Monthly Periods

“If we go back a couple of thousand years, women were typically in some sort of a sexual relationship from the time they started having periods until they reached menopause,” says Pierson. With no contraception available, women were usually pregnant or lactating. For this reason, Pierson estimates that they may have only menstruated about five or six time in their lives.”It was when we had efficient contraception that we got the idea that regular menstrual periods are normal. So to have someone declare that you need a regular menstrual period to be healthy, that’s just not the case,” he says.

What We Know About Period Suppression

According to the SOGC’s guidelines on continuous and extended use of hormonal contraception, taking the pill to suppress your period for a short period of time is as safe as using it in a 21-day cycle. Guidelines also statethat evidence on the long-term safety of using hormonal contraception continuously aren’tavailable.The longest period of time that researchers have officially followed women continuously taking the birth control pill is three years, says Black. “But the first studies published on this were in 1977, so it’s something that’s been done for a long time. Wedon’t have any reason to suggest that the risks would be any higher than it would be taking the birth control pill in the regular way.” 

The post Is It Safe To Stop Your Period? appeared first on Best Health.

Source: Web exclusive, July 2011

Welcome to New & Now online, your source for the latest findings, innovative products and emerging trends in health, nutrition, beauty and wellness.

Now you can get all the hottest health and healthy-living news from around the web all in one convenient location each and every week. Check back every Friday to find out what we’ve been buzzing about here at Best Health.

Birth control can raise risk of HIV

A study from researchers at the University of Washington has found women taking hormone-based birth control to be twice as likely to transmit HIV. | Toronto Star

Restaurant meals hide additional calories

The calorie counts that coincide with each meal on restaurants menus have been found to be largely inaccurate. Options such as soups and salads often had an additional 100 calories. | TIME

Ontario hospitals overcrowded

A new report by the Ontario Health Coalition has found Ontario hospitals to be suffering from serious overcrowding and a bed shortage. According to the report, patient care has been compromised as a result of the overcrowding. | CBC.ca

Healthy lifestyle could help prevent Alzheimer’s

Preventative measures could be taken to help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s, a study suggests. Living a healthy lifestyle and reducing risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, obesity and lack of exercise have been found to be effective in combating risk. | The Globe and Mail

Height linked to cancer risk

A study from Oxford University found the risk of cancer for women to increase by 16 percent with every four inches of height. The link between the disease and being tall is believed to be a result of certain hormones which increase with height. | Daily Mail

Don’t miss out! Sign up for our free weekly newsletters and get nutritious recipes, healthy weight-loss tips, easy ways to stay in shape and all the health news you need, delivered straight to your inbox.

The post New & Now: July 22, 2011 appeared first on Best Health.