The Benefits of Birth Control Pills

Photo credit: Bigstockphoto
Photo credit: Bigstockphoto

Birth control pills are one of the most reliable ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy. The pill works by stopping ovulation so the sperm fertilizes no egg. Most birth control pills contain two types of female hormones, estrogen and progestin. Regardless what type of hormones the pills are made of, all birth control pills work the same way.

Although birth control pills are used to prevent pregnancies, 33% of women take the pills for other uses too. And in today’s post, we are listing down some of the benefits you can get from taking birth control pills:

Reduce Occurrence of Painful Periods

Do you suffer from crippling period cramps each month? You can ease severe period pains by taking birth control pills. In fact, taking birth control pills will reduce regular aches, pains, chills and other symptoms of PMS. Painful periods are often caused by high levels of prostaglandin in the system. This chemical triggers painful muscle contractions and cramping. Since birth control pills prevent ovulation, the level of prostaglandin in the body remains stable. And when the prostaglandin in the uterus is stable, you feel less pain from your period.

Reduces the Risk of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition wherein the endometrium grows outside the uterus. The endometrium tissues are supposed to thicken and shed every month. But when the tissues implant itself into the pelvis, it causes severe pelvic pains. Taking birth control pills prevent the tissues from growing outside the uterus by stabilizing its lining. If you suffer from very severe period pains each month, it is best to get yourself checked and talk to your doctors about the symptoms. You could be suffering from endometriosis.

Eases PMS and PMDD

Premenstrual syndrome or PMS refers to physical and emotional symptoms that occur a week or two before a woman gets her period. The physical and emotional symptoms vary from stomach cramps, diarrhea, irritability, and bloating to fatigue, acne, and fatigue. On the other hand, premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD is the more severe version of PMS. Both conditions can be prevented by taking birth control pills.

According to doctors, PMS and PMDD are caused by the unstable levels of hormones in the body before and during menstruation. The pill regulates the hormones so they do not reach unstable levels, thereby preventing PMS and PMDD.

Clear, Smooth Skin

Another unexpected benefit you get from taking pills is clear, beautiful complexion. As mentioned above, the pill regulates the female hormones in the body. Some of these hormones tend to trigger severe breakouts or acne. Oral contraceptives keep the balance between male and female hormones so the skin does not produce more sebum. Overproduction of oil is the usual cause of severe skin breakouts. When the skin is less oily, it remains clear and smooth before and during your period.

Regulates Period

Do you suffer from irregular periods? Studies show that irregular periods are one of the leading causes of difficult pregnancies in women. And there is a difference between normal and regular period. You can have a normal period, but your menstrual cycle might not be the same each month. Taking birth control pills help regulate your period. This means you will get your period right on schedule. This is beneficial for women who do not get their periods regularly or those whose period shows up on its own terms.