Why I Would Never Go Back On The Oral Contraceptive Pill
When I was 16, I was put on the oral contraceptive pill. It wasn’t a decision I made after being super informed and weighing up the pros and cons of exploring alternatives — it was just what happened. I was late to get my period, so all my friends were already on it, and my doctor said, ‘Of course,’ so it seemed like the obvious choice. At the time, I didn’t think twice about the potential risks or long-term effects. I just knew I didn’t want acne, I didn’t want a period, and I definitely didn’t want to get pregnant. So, I took the pill. And I stayed on it for over a decade.
It wasn’t until I started taking control of my health and learning about hormones that I began to question whether the pill was still the right choice for me. I decided to experiment with coming off it, thinking my body would regulate itself easily. But that wasn’t the case. Three years later, I still don’t have a regular menstrual cycle. It’s been a journey — one that’s made me reflect deeply on my experience with the pill and the importance of informed decision-making when it comes to contraception and hormone health.
In this post, I’ll share my personal story alongside a balanced look at the pros and cons of the oral contraceptive pill. My goal isn’t to tell you what to do but to encourage you to reflect on your own journey and consider what’s best for your body.
Disclaimer: This blog post is based on my personal experience and research. It is not medical advice. If you’re considering starting, stopping, or changing your contraception, please consult a healthcare professional to discuss what’s best for your individual needs.
Understanding the Pill: Synthetic Hormones and “Withdrawal Bleeds”
One thing I wish I’d known earlier is that the bleed you experience on the pill isn’t a true period. It’s called a “withdrawal bleed,” and it happens because of the drop in synthetic hormones during the placebo week. Unlike a natural menstrual cycle, which is driven by your body’s own hormones, the pill suppresses ovulation entirely. This means you’re not experiencing the natural ebb and flow of your menstrual cycle — you’re essentially putting your hormones on pause.
It’s also worth noting that the pill comes in different forms. The most common is the combined pill, which contains both synthetic estrogen and progestin. However, there’s also the progestin-only pill (often called the “mini-pill”), which may be a better option for women who can’t tolerate estrogen or have certain health conditions.
The Pros of the Oral Contraceptive Pill
Let’s start with the benefits because there’s no denying that the pill has been a game-changer for many women. For me, it delivered exactly what I wanted at 16: no acne, no periods, and no unplanned pregnancies. But beyond these personal benefits, the pill has had a profound impact on society as a whole.
Empowering Women in Society: The pill has enabled women to take control of their reproductive health, allowing them to pursue education, careers, and personal goals without the constant worry of unplanned pregnancies. It’s played a significant role in keeping women in the workforce longer and providing more life options.
Effective Contraception: The pill is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly. For many women, this peace of mind is invaluable.
Predictability and Planning: While the “period” you have on the pill isn’t a true menstrual cycle, it can make bleeding more predictable, lighter, and less painful. For some, it even eliminates bleeding altogether — something I initially loved.
Improved Skin: Hormonal acne can be a nightmare, and the pill can help clear it up by regulating androgen levels (these are what typically cause a breakout).
Other Health Benefits: Some studies suggest the pill may reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers, as well as conditions like endometriosis.
For years, these benefits kept me on the pill without question. But as I learned more about my body and hormones, I began to wonder: what was the trade-off? And who was I without being medicated all the time?
The Cons of the Oral Contraceptive Pill
While the pill has its advantages, it’s not without its downsides. For me, the lack of education about potential risks was a glaring issue. I was never told about the impact it could have on my hormones, my mood, or my long-term health. And when I finally came off the pill, I was blindsided by the challenges I faced.
Hormonal Imbalance: The pill works by suppressing your natural hormones, which can lead to imbalances when you stop taking it. As it could be masking other issues rather than addressing the root cause. In my case, my cycle still hasn’t returned to normal after three years because my oestrogen was so low (I’ve since been diagnosed with hypothalamic amenorrhea but more on that in another post).
Mood Changes: Many women report mood swings, anxiety, or depression while on the pill. Recent data highlights the increased mental health conditions and use of medication for these. While I didn’t notice this at the time, looking back, I wonder if it played a role in my emotional health.
Weight Fluctuations: Some women gain weight on the pill, while others struggle to lose it. This can be frustrating and impact self-esteem and self-worth.
Reduced Libido: For some, the pill can lower sex drive — a side effect that’s rarely discussed because it is such a taboo topic but can have a significant impact on relationships.
Interference With Nutrient Absorption: The pill may affect the absorption of some vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins and magnesium, which are essential for overall health.
Cardiovascular Risks: Research has shown that the pill, particularly combined estrogen-progestin pills, can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack, especially in women who smoke or have underlying health conditions. According to a study published in The BMJ, the risk of blood clots is about 1.5 to 2 times higher in women taking combined oral contraceptives compared to non-users.
Impact on Developing Brain: The teenage brain is still developing, and altering its hormonal environment with OCPs could potentially influence that development (by affecting mood, brain structure, and cognitive function), but more comprehensive studies are needed to understand the long-term effects of OCPs on teens.
I will be straight up and say there are some big claims here and frankly, the studies on women’s health, including the pill usage are not great. There is not enough of them, and they aren’t always super robust. If only we had been studying women’s health as much as men’s. Unfortunately, we aren’t there yet.
I stayed on the pill for so long for convenience and because I didn’t know much about other options. From non-hormonal IUDs to fertility awareness methods, some alternatives might work better for some women. Something to think about.
The Impact on the Menstrual Cycle
One of the most surprising aspects of my journey was how the pill affected my menstrual cycle — both while I was on it and after I stopped. While I loved not having a period, I now realise how disconnected I was from my body’s natural rhythms.
I’m still working to regulate my hormones and restore my menstrual cycle. It’s been a frustrating and humbling experience, but it’s also taught me the importance of patience and self-advocacy. The obstacle is the way. If I hadn’t been on this journey, I would have never found my true passion for health or started Balance With Friends (there’s always a silver lining).
If you’re considering coming off the pill, I encourage you to do your research and prepare for the possibility of a transition period. For some women, their cycle returns quickly; for others, it takes time. Everyone’s body is different.
A Balanced Perspective
The oral contraceptive pill is a powerful tool, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. For me, the lack of education about its risks and alternatives was a major issue. While I’m grateful for the benefits it provided at the time, I’ve also learned the importance of understanding my body and taking control of my health naturally.
That said, I’m not here to tell you what to do. My journey is just one story, and everyone’s experience is unique. What’s most important is that you feel empowered to make choices that are right for you.
Reflect on Your Journey
If you’re reading this, I’d like to invite you to reflect on your own experience with the oral contraceptive pill:
What were you told when you first went on the pill?
What do you understand about it now?
Have you noticed any changes in your body, mood, or cycle while on or off the pill?
Is it time to reevaluate your choice and explore alternatives?
These are big questions, but they’re worth asking. Your health is your own, and you deserve to feel confident in the choices you make.
If you want a follow-up post on some tips for transitioning off the OCP, let me know in the comments or DMs!
With love and balance, my Friends x
