I’ve relied on hormonal birth control for a long period of time. And, it has been a game-changer for me offering a range of benefits, from regulating my cycles to even preventing unwanted pregnancy.
In fact, women with hormonal birth control and regular checkups were more likely to adhere to their medication and experience fewer side effects. (Source: Oxford Academy)
However, now that I’ve learned the major significance of prioritizing the regular health screening. In this read, I’ll be sharing my personal journey and insights on every woman on hormonal birth control should consider.
Let’s start!
According to the American Heart Association, hormonal birth control, especially those containing estrogen, may raise blood pressure in some women. High blood pressure may be silent, but when left unsupervised, it can cause heart disease or stroke.
Regular blood pressure wellness exams are suggested for women using contraceptives, especially if there is an unexpected risk factor like obesity or a family history of hypertension.
Blood clots are an uncommon but serious side effect of hormonal birth control. Estrogen-based contraceptives may heighten the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in women with genetic predispositions. Women who are currently more than 35 years old or those who smoke are at a higher risk of developing this condition.
Oral contraceptives may raise LDL (bad) cholesterol but decrease HDL (good) cholesterol. These fluctuations may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases in women with obesity or a family history of heart disease.
It is recommended to take a cholesterol screening every year or as directed by your medicinal provider. Based on your test results, you can then adjust your lifestyle or contraceptive method if necessary.
Do You Know?
According to the CDC’s 2017-2019 National Survey of Family Growth, about 14% of women aged 15-49 in the United States currently use oral contraceptive pills.
Blood sugar regulation may be affected by some hormonal contraceptives containing progestin. Women at risk of or diagnosed with diabetes should be even more mindful of such methods.
Glucose tolerance tests can identify early insulin resistance or signs of type 2 diabetes. Monitoring these sugar levels can help you avoid precipitous changes in metabolic conditions, by allowing you to make timely dietary and medical interventions.
With your routine check-up, your doctor may recommend that you get a CT scan (Computed Tomography) or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) done.
According to a study, contraceptives containing medroxyprogesterone acetate increased the risk of intracranial meningioma if used for longer than a year. Depo-Provera is an example. Tests like CT scans and MRIs create an image of the brain and help you find abnormalities if any.
This Depo-Provera lawsuit tells us about the risks associated with contraceptives containing progestin. According to this lawsuit, it is linked to serious health complications like brain tumors.
Many have come together to file cases against the manufacturers, and more may follow. Anyone who has developed a brain tumor after using Depo-Provera is eligible to file this suit.
Some hormone contraceptives are known to decrease bone density when used long-term. For younger women who are still generating bone mass or for older women who are at increased risk for osteoporosis, this is especially concerning.
Bone density scans like dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) are advised for women using such contraceptives for long periods. After diagnosing bone density loss, you may restore your bone health with calcium and vitamin D supplements. You may also be asked to choose healthier contraceptives.
Hormonal contraceptives do not cause cervical cancer directly. However, their long-term use has been associated with an increased risk of the disease. It is worth noting that sexually active women are suggested to opt for regular Pap smears and HPV screenings. They should do so regardless of contraceptive use.
The National Cancer Institute has given a few recommendations regarding these tests. It suggests Pap smears every three years for women 21 to 29 years old. It also suggests HPV tests every five years for women aged between 30 to 65.
According to TruLaw, there can be side effects to contraceptives like Depo Provera, like weight gain, decreased libido, and mood swings. These bodily changes and hormonal fluctuations from contraceptives may affect one’s mental health drastically.
Some hormonal birth control users even report anxiety, depression, or regular stress. Regular mental health checks with a healthcare provider or guidance counsellor may help women cope with these complications and explore alternatives if required.
Hormonal contraceptives may sometimes be necessary for reproductive health but should be chosen with the right evidence and proactive management. Try to follow the prescribed series of health tests and watch out for any bodily changes.
To ensure optimal health, keep yourself updated with the latest news on your chosen contraceptive method. Take care!
