Category: Birth Control

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Birth Control Health Period

Things You Should Know About Endometriosis: Definition, Symptoms, Treatments & Medications

endometriosis and birth control
Image credit: iStock

Endometriosis, a painful condition affecting 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. That’s about 190 million women globally. More often than not, endometriosis causes severe pain and can contribute to other problems like poor wellbeing and even infertility. And that’s why it’s important to address it, starting from this blog article.

Just last month (June 2021) in Singapore, it was reported that there’s a rising trend in the number of people diagnosed with endometriosis. From 70 to 80 patients per month in 2019, the National University Hospital’s endometriosis clinic saw 100 to 110 patients a month this year, with more than half being severe cases. (Source: CNA)  

Endometrial pain can also be extremely unbearable for most women, thus some may choose to opt for telehealth services like Siena where they can access birth control to help relieve the pain. We’ll delve into that in a bit. 

What is Endometriosis? 

It is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus instead. The tissue attaches itself to other pelvic and abdominal organs like the ovaries and fallopian tubes, which causes scarring, adhesions and cysts. 

Every month, your uterus grows the endometrial lining in preparation for a fertilised egg. If the fertilised egg doesn’t implant itself in the lining within a month, your hormone levels will fall, prompting the lining to shed. 

For women with endometriosis, however, after the lining sheds, the endometrial cells that grow outside the uterus liquefy, bleed and touch other organs or body tissues. This then causes irritation, inflammation and pain. 

There is currently no cure for it although you can seek treatment to help with the symptoms.

Common symptoms

  • Severe premenstrual/menstrual cramps (marked by having to change more than five to six sanitary pads a day) 
  • Pain during and/or after sex 
  • Painful and frequent bowel movements 
  • Pain in the abdomen, lower back or thighs often lasting throughout the cycle 
  • Heavy periods 
  • Spotting between periods 
  • Difficulty getting pregnant (40 to 50% of patients with endometriosis are diagnosed with infertility)

If you’re experiencing menstrual cramps that are currently (or have been) affecting your quality of life (e.g. unable to get out of bed or having to take medical leave to get through your cycle), it’s a sign that you could have endometriosis. 

Due to the condition’s painful and uncomfortable symptoms, women may also develop depression.

However, some who suffer from endometriosis may not display any symptoms at all.

Likely causes

Most people diagnosed with endometriosis are in their 30s and 40s. But you may be more vulnerable if: 

  • You’ve never given birth 
  • Your periods last more than seven days 
  • You have short menstrual cycles (your period comes every 27 days or less) 
  • You have a family history of endometriosis 
  • You’re suffering from a health problem that keeps blood from flowing out of your uterus when you’re on your period

Ways to Manage Endometriosis 

As there is currently no cure, it’s good to know about the available treatments out there to help you better manage your symptoms. It can be treated with medicine or surgery. 

How hormone medications can help 

In most cases, doctors tend to prescribe specific types of birth control ranging from the combined contraceptive pill to the contraceptive patch and GnRH analogues. This is because birth control can help reduce pain and bleeding.

As these hormone medications act as both contraception and treatment for endometriosis, they’re especially useful if you don’t plan on getting pregnant anytime soon.

Method Function
Combined hormonal contraception like birth control pills and patches (containing both estrogen and progestin hormones) – Pain relief
– Help you experience lighter, shorter and more regular periods
– Continuous use (skipping the inactive pills or last week of a 4-week pack) of the pill prevents menstruation. Thus, this stops endometrial cells from shedding and causing inflammation and irritation.
– Monophasic birth control that releases a continuous, steady dose of hormones each day of the month is also useful in alleviating symptoms. 
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists medications– Trigger a temporary menopause-like state by stopping the production of certain hormones
– Prevent ovulation, menstruation and the growth of endometriosis and its related pain and symptoms
Progesterone and progestin medications like the mini pill, injection or intrauterine device (IUD) – Improve symptoms by reducing or skipping periods, on top of preventing pregnancy
– These hormones reduce menstrual flow without causing the uterine lining to grow, thus reducing endometriosis-related pain 
How hormone medications alleviate symptoms of endometriosis

As with all hormonal treatments, symptoms can return after you stop taking or using them.

Other methods to ease symptoms of endometriosis 

For milder symptoms that are still tolerable, you can consider painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications which may be enough to keep away the pain. This may include over-the-counter pain relievers or even stronger painkillers prescribed to you. 

If you want to get pregnant but you’re unable to do so or if you experience severe and extreme symptoms, surgery is another option you may want to go for. Going through with surgery will require you to remove the growths outside of your uterus or just patches of endometriosis tissue, relieving the pain and making it easier for you to get pregnant. Sometimes, the growths do come back after surgery so you may have to take medication. 

Some women also opt for hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) to remove part or all of the affected organs like the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Keep in mind that this is permanent and it’ll be impossible to become pregnant in future. 

Increasing awareness

Even though access to early diagnosis and effective treatment of endometriosis is essential, it remains lacking. A significant problem associated with endometriosis is the delayed or under-diagnosis of the condition. Worldwide, diagnosis for endometriosis is typically made seven to 10 years after the onset of symptoms, which is a considerably long time. 

This suggests there’s low awareness among not just the patients, but also the general population and even doctors. Endometriosis shouldn’t be brushed off as merely normal period pain but rather, it’s important to be able to recognise and treat the condition to greatly improve patients’ quality of life.

The current priorities laid out by the World Health Organization includes the need for more research and awareness globally to “ensure effective prevention, early diagnosis and improved management of the disease”. Healthcare also plays an important role in screening, identifying and offering basic pain management to cope with endometriosis. 

In Singapore, there are a few great initiatives and outreach programmes you can support, such as the Endometriosis Awareness Campaign launched in 2012 and the Singapore Endometriosis Support Group. 

How Siena Can Help You Cope With Endometriosis 

If you think you may be suffering from endometriosis, birth control is definitely an option you can consider to help manage your symptoms. By hindering the growth of the endometrial tissues, birth control essentially relieves the pain and other symptoms associated with endometriosis. 

With that, don’t hesitate to seek help from any of our female doctors at Siena. With nine brands to choose from, you can also take comfort in knowing that we prescribe safe and effective hormonal birth control to help you alleviate symptoms of endometriosis. 

Summary

What is endometriosis?

It is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus instead. The tissue attaches itself to other pelvic and abdominal organs like the ovaries and fallopian tubes, which causes scarring, adhesions and cysts.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

– Severe premenstrual/menstrual cramps (marked by having to change more than five to six sanitary pads a day) 
– Pain during and/or after sex 
– Painful and frequent bowel movements 
– Pain in the abdomen, lower back or thighs often lasting throughout the cycle 
– Heavy periods 
– Spotting between periods 
– Difficulty getting pregnant (40 to 50% of patients with endometriosis are diagnosed with infertility)

What causes endometriosis?

You may be more vulnerable if: 
– You’ve never given birth 
– Your periods last more than seven days 
– You have short menstrual cycles (your period comes every 27 days or less) 
– You have a family history of endometriosis 
– You’re suffering from a health problem that keeps blood from flowing out of your uterus when you’re on your period

References: 

Categories
Birth Control Emergency Contraception Health Sexual Health

Preventing Unintended Pregnancies: What You Should Know About Having Safe Sex

preventing unplanned pregnancies
Image credit: Freepik

Unintended pregnancies are pregnancies that are mistimed, unplanned or unwanted at the time of conception.

In Singapore, the Ministry of Health revealed that there were 10,960 abortions in 2012 whereby roughly one in four pregnancies were terminated. Furthermore, a 2018 study by KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital’s Clinic for Adolescent Pregnancy revealed that nearly one in three girls and young women even had successive pregnancies before the age of 21, suggesting a need to improve care for pregnant adolescents. 

Aside from teenage pregnancies, this article still stands even if you’re a 35-year-old mom with two kids, and perhaps you know it’s more than you can ever handle. Or if you and your partner have already decided that right from the get-go, having kids is a definite no in your lifetime.

And that is why knowing how to prevent unintended pregnancies can be so important, no matter your age, background or individual differences.

Causes of Unintended Pregnancies 

Unintended pregnancies can happen for many reasons. It could be due to last-minute accidents or emergencies, carelessness and for some, even the lack of sexual education. In order to take the necessary steps in planning for when (or if) you want to conceive, it’ll probably be useful to first understand the likely causes of unintended pregnancies. 

Accidents or ineffective use of birth control

Although birth control can help prevent pregnancy, it won’t do you any good if you aren’t taking it on time or changing it as needed. And birth control methods, even when used correctly, can fail. Globally, an estimated 33 million unintended pregnancies are the result of incorrect use or contraceptive failure.

If you prefer to only rely on the rhythm method (abstaining from sex only during your most fertile days) or withdrawal (pull out) method, it’s important to note that you’re essentially using the least effective of birth control methods. They are less reliable mainly because it’s harder to control several important factors involved.

For instance, pre-cum may also contain sperm such that even if the other party pulls out every single time, there’s still a higher chance of pregnancy. And, if you’ve been nailing your ejaculation timing perfectly, remember that even just one slip up can potentially cause pregnancy. 

Also, although male condoms are easily accessible and offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), they’re only about 85 percent effective in real-life conditions for pregnancy prevention (one of the lowest). The efficacy of condoms depends on when and how it’s worn while there’s also a risk of condoms tearing and breaking during sex. 

Having sex without using any birth control 

Studies have found that among couples who have regular sex without contraception, 84% get pregnant within a year and 92% within two years. Several plausible reasons for not using birth control could be due to personal preference, lack of access to birth control, or cultural and religious norms and beliefs. 

If you’re one of those who don’t use birth control regularly or not at all, this might increase your chances of getting pregnant. This is especially so for couples who are fertile and also frequently have sex. 

Unaware of your fertility status 

For some women, they may be unaware they’re capable of getting pregnant if they:

  • Have prior experience struggling with infertility
  • Do not have regular periods 
  • Are going through perimenopause (menopause transition which occurs several years before menopause)

Although the above factors usually suggest a decrease in fertility, it is still possible to conceive. Thus, some women face unintended pregnancy when they least expect it. 

Non-consensual sex

Unintended pregnancies can also be a result of rape or forced pregnancy. This is a severe reproductive health risk that usually always leads to negative consequences for victims. 

Youths are at a higher risk of being exposed to non-consensual sexual experiences due to individual factors like financial need and alcohol consumption, and also environmental factors like poverty, early marriage and gender inequality. 

Ways You Can Prevent Unintended Pregnancies 

It all begins with you and most importantly, your knowledge and understanding of your own sexual and reproductive health. Hence, you may find it beneficial to keep the following guidelines in mind!

Practise safe sex

A really basic rule! Don’t be afraid to take charge of your own safety when it comes to your sexual health. You should take all precautions such as using condoms to prevent transmitting or getting STIs, and even hormonal birth control to prevent unintended pregnancies. 

Compared to the rhythm and withdrawal methods, hormonal contraceptives have much higher success rates. What’s more, there are many types of birth control you can choose from if you decide to go on hormonal birth control, ranging from the birth control pill, patch and vaginal ring. It all depends on what suits you the best in terms of your own preference and lifestyle.

If used perfectly, these methods are at least 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy! With that said, if you’re not on any form of hormonal birth control, remember to use protection (i.e. condoms) every time you’re engaged in any form of sexual encounter. 

Still can’t wrap your head around your options? Before settling on a decision, you might want to do some research or speak with a doctor to figure out which contraceptive works well for you. 

Communicate with your partner

It’s important to be transparent about your sexual past, personal preferences and even your decisions about sex and pregnancy. Besides being able to learn about potential STIs and each other’s thoughts on having kids (especially for long-term couples), it’ll definitely help to maintain open communication with one another. 

Emergency contraception to the rescue 

Got caught up in the heat of the moment? Simply forgot about protection because you weren’t exactly in a sober state? Never expected your trusty condom to fail on you? 

We get it. Accidents happen. 

But that’s what emergency contraception is for! Also known as the morning-after pill, you take it to prevent pregnancy if you’ve had sex without contraceptive protection. The pill will then work to prevent or delay your ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation). It should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

But do note emergency contraception is intended for occasional use, not as a primary form of birth control.

Consider long-acting reversible contraceptive methods 

Research has shown that long-acting contraception like the intrauterine device (IUD) and implants are essential in reducing unwanted pregnancy rates, abortion and even repeat abortion. Overall, they’re likely to have a positive impact on women’s ability to take control of their reproductive health. 

In comparison with other methods that depend on user adherence, these long-term contraceptive methods are more reliable, cost-effective and also offer better prevention against unintended pregnancies. 

Abstain from sex

This might be an unfavourable option but hey, it’s something that works and is definitely 100% effective for both pregnancy and STIs prevention. If you ever come to this decision, it’ll definitely help to share your feelings with your partner so both of you are agreeable and understanding of the situation. 

To Sum It Up

Educating yourself on the strategies and precautions needed to prevent unintended pregnancies is really important for quality family planning. I mean, what’s not to love about enjoying both great sex and child-free days especially when you’re not yet ready?

Being able to gain access to effective contraception with minimal barriers (or even stigma) can make a huge difference. And it’s really all you need in order to learn how to prevent unintended pregnancies. 

With Siena, you can speak to our female doctors via a tele-consult, purchase your contraceptives online and await your discreet package in the comfort of your home at no extra cost! 

@sienahealth

Unboxing a #Siena package with your birth control needs & a lil surprise✨ #singapore #tiktoksg #fyp #womenshealth #sexualhealth #birthcontrolcheck

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References: 

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Birth Control Health Period

Period Hacks: 9 Ways You Can Embrace Self-Care During That Time of the Month

period hacks: 9 ways to embrace self-care during your period

Periods can be tough. Most of us learn (the hard way) that it’s pretty much impossible to avoid both the physical and emotional symptoms of your menstrual cycle. From painful menstrual cramps to bloating, fatigue and irrational mood swings, there are seriously tons of reasons validating that dreadful feeling you get when you’re on your period. 

But you’re definitely not alone. Approximately 80 percent of women experience period pain (dysmenorrhoea) in their lifetime and in 5 to 10 percent of women, the pain can be so severe that it disrupts their daily life. While some of those who experience dysmenorrhea rely on over-the-counter painkillers, others may also seek longer-term remedies like birth control to help reduce the pain associated with menstrual cramps. 

Looking for an everyday solution that’s more convenient and perhaps even free? Try these easy period hacks that can help you cope better during that time of the month! 

Dietary Changes

Image credit: Freepik

Snuggling in bed with junk food on both hands, Netflix and a pint of ice-cream waiting by your bedside. Yes, I’m sure we’ve all been there in one way or another. It can get really tempting to just wait out your period in the most comforting (yet unhealthy) manner possible. 

1. Stay away from simple carbs, sugar and salt

Of course, along with your period also comes the time you’re most likely to indulge in food high in carbohydrates, sugar and salt. Mostly because you feel like it. However, they can actually cause energy levels to crash whilst intensifying mood swings and bloating due to higher water retention. 

Instead, try to consume protein-rich foods and those with healthy fats and high fibre which can help to stabilise your blood sugar levels and decrease inflammation. Or you could also consider having more complex carbs found in wholegrain food as they keep you full longer, thus reducing your food cravings and irritability.

2. Hydrate

Drink up (water, not alcohol)! Having plenty of water helps with digestion, hormone regulation and hydration. Research has shown that staying hydrated (at least 1600ml a day) can decrease the duration of menstrual bleeding and the severity of menstrual pain.

If you’re usually reliant on that cup of espresso to kickstart your days or plenty of nights with at least one glass of wine, it might be a better idea to avoid them around the time of your period. Both caffeine and alcohol have the potential to enhance premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms such as irritability, restlessness and tension.

3. Don’t forget your daily nutrients/supplements

Calcium is a key dietary intake that can help relieve PMS symptoms like depression and fatigue. In the week leading up to your period, you might want to consider stocking up on milk, other dairy products and even cereal. 

When taken together, magnesium and vitamin B-6 are most effective in helping you cope with symptoms like depression, anxiety, bloating and food cravings. Vitamin B-6 is commonly found in fish, chicken and fruits while you can also expect to have magnesium in your leafy greens like spinach, and in whole grains and nuts. 

Lifestyle Recommendations

Image credit: Freepik

Dating back to your teenage years, you might already be accustomed to a certain routine or way of life when it comes to your period. Good on you if it’s been working well for you so far! But for those of you still on the lookout for ways to improve your period health, it’s best to re-evaluate your current lifestyle and learn from some of the tips below. 

1. Get up and get moving

No matter how much you feel like it, don’t let yourself become a couch potato! 

Be it hiking, jogging, biking, dancing or even as simple as taking a stroll, any kind of exercise for at least 30 minutes a day can do you good. As long as it gets your heart pumping, the release of mood-boosting endorphins is a great way to improve PMS symptoms like fatigue, poor concentration and depression. 

2. Quality sleep 

Feel like you’re getting enough hours of sleep but can’t fathom why you still wake up feeling grouchy and moody? Well, here’s a plausible explanation.  

As you may find it harder to fall asleep at night whilst enduring your period symptoms, any disruption to your sleep pattern can also increase your irritability and even cause menstrual migraines. To tackle this, try sticking to a sleep routine where you head to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time in the morning.

Turn in earlier by reducing your screentime in bed so that you’ll also have the full, minimum eight hours of sleep. This will not only help to rejuvenate you, but it also stabilises your hormones. 

3. Break your habit 

Smoking can lead to more severe PMS symptoms and menstrual problems like cramping and irregular periods. This happens because it alters your hormone levels and even lowers plasma vitamin D levels which potentially increases the incidence and/or severity of PMS.

At-Home Care and Relaxation Techniques

Image credit: Freepik

Sometimes, all you really need during the few days of menstruation is to relax and forget about your troubles and worries. That’s all there is to it, period.

1. Therapeutic care

It can be stressful juggling your life’s commitments and daily activities, alongside your period. But fret not, there are so many relaxation techniques you can adopt to wind down and give yourself the self-care you deserve. 

Yoga is one effective activity for your stress management as the combination of gentle movements and deep breathing techniques help to relax your muscles and improve blood supply to the pelvic area. A study found that doing regular yoga exercises actually improved PMS bloating, cramps and sore breasts, hence decreasing premenstrual distress. 

Alternatively, a back and stomach massage could also be another solution for you to calm your nerves and anxiety around the time of your period, as well as to ease physical discomfort. An hour of massage can reduce your cortisol levels — a hormone triggered in times of stress — and produce a feel-good chemical, serotonin. This boosts your body’s ability to deflect pain, anxiety and negative emotions.  

2. Turn up the heat

Warm-anything is the way to go during your period! They help relax the muscles of your uterus causing period cramps and also boost circulation in your abdomen.

These are some simple and effective ways to ease tension and for pain relief:

  • Soak in a warm bath with aromatherapy oils 
  • Use a heating pad, patch or wrap 
  • Hug a hot water bottle 
  • Enjoy a cup of hot ginger tea 

3. Stay positive 

More often than not, taking care of your mental health may be just the thing to beat the period blues (emotionally at least). And these are probably the most basic of tips that some of you may have overlooked! 

We cannot emphasise enough how important rest is. Periods are obviously exhausting so don’t feel guilty for taking all the rest you need to recharge. 

If you’re tucked in bed feeling lonely and horrible, try listening to audiobooks and podcasts, or simply reach out to a friend or loved one to chat about what’s on your mind. 

And if you’re up for it, why not learn something new or invest your energy into a task you’ve been wanting to take on? Make yourself a new smoothie recipe, spend a few minutes on the piano or simply rearrange your bookshelf if it makes you feel better. You’ll probably feel the tiniest sense of accomplishment and satisfaction while getting a whole lot of inspiration in time for your post-period activities! 

Should You See A Doctor?

With plenty of period hacks to choose from, you’ll hopefully get better at managing your next and subsequent menstrual cycles! While they may not work for everyone, your period problems will most likely be more tolerable whenever the dreaded time of the month rolls around. Just remember to stick to the ones that work best for you and don’t be afraid to experiment. 

However, if your PMS symptoms are seriously unbearable and extreme such that it severely disrupts your daily life, consider seeking professional help from a doctor. With Siena, all you have to do is fill up a questionnaire to schedule a tele-consult with one of our female doctors to discuss the complications and find relief from your PMS symptoms — all from the privacy and comfort of your own home. 

Summary

How To Relieve Period Cramps?

  1. Dietary Changes

    Cut down on simple carbs, sugar and salt, constantly hydrate and don’t forget your daily nutrients & supplements.

  2. Lifestyle Recommendations

    Exercise, have sufficient quality sleep and stay away from bad habits like smoking.

  3. At-Home Care and Relaxation Techniques

    Indulge in therapeutic care such as yoga and massage, use heat pads or take a warm bath while staying positive.

References: 

Categories
Birth Control Health Sexual Health

Birth Control and Infertility: Reversible Birth Control Can’t Cause Infertility or Affect Future Pregnancy — Here’s Why

birth control and infertility

Reversible birth control has no effect on fertility 

No, reversible hormonal contraceptives will not cause infertility or affect your future pregnancies, regardless of which method you’re on (i.e. birth control pills, patch, vaginal ring, IUD) or how long you’ve been using it.

Most women gradually regain fertility and are just as likely to conceive as women who have never been on birth control. Only sterilisation is considered a permanent and irreversible birth control method.

A 3-year study conducted to uncover the association between oral contraceptive use and the time to pregnancy revealed that long-term use of oral contraceptives did not affect the ability to conceive in the future. This same study of 3,727 participants even found that longer-term use of combined oral contraceptives was associated with a greater likelihood of pregnancy.

In a separate study of 2,000 women who planned to conceive after being on the birth control pill for seven years, 21% of the women managed to conceive within one cycle. After stopping birth control, approximately 80% of the women were pregnant within a year. 

Benefits of birth control

Perhaps, you haven’t heard of the wide range of health benefits that come from using birth control. Many women also use it to manage their migraines, relieve menstrual cramps and cope with painful disorders like endometriosis and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). 

Especially if you’re sexually active but aren’t ready for kids yet, birth control is one of your best options. Used perfectly, most methods are at least 99 percent effective and safe, helping you to prevent unwanted pregnancies! 

So why is infertility still a persistent myth?

You may be wondering if this long-standing myth has some truth to it. After all, it’s a pretty common misconception and you’re bound to hear about it. While birth control doesn’t affect fertility, there are a few reasons why some may assume otherwise. 

1. Fertility delay

You should resume your menstrual cycle within about three months of stopping reversible hormonal contraceptives, if not earlier. However, depending on the contraceptive used and the individual person, there could be a fertility delay that makes it seem as if birth control has adverse effects on your reproductive health. 

According to research, it’s possible to experience a short-term fertility delay of two to six months once you’re off oral contraceptives. This shouldn’t be a huge problem but if you’re concerned, it’s best to speak with your doctor.

A longer delay of menstruation that lasts at least six months after you stop taking oral contraceptives may mean you’re experiencing post-pill amenorrhea. For some, it can take longer than usual for their body to start producing the hormones essential for ovulation and menstruation again, even after stopping the pill. Despite its medical term, this is usually not due to birth control use, but rather an underlying health condition or simply your body’s natural reaction. (Source: Healthline) 

2. Underlying health conditions

Birth control’s primary function is to release synthetic hormones that trick your body into thinking you’re on a menstrual cycle despite overriding your own body’s natural hormonal cycle. Sometimes, this may mask certain health issues that lead to anovulation (lack or absence of ovulation) or irregular ovulation. 

Several health conditions include: 

  • High levels of stress
  • Hyperprolactinemia 
  • Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism 
  • Low body weight 
  • Obesity 
  • Premature ovarian insufficiency 
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

If you think you may be suffering from any of the above conditions, or experience a lack of menstruation, heavy bleeding or irregular period cycles, speak with a healthcare professional immediately. The longer you leave an underlying health condition untreated, the longer and harder it might become to conceive.

3. Age

If you’ve been on birth control since you were a teen and find it hard to conceive now that you’re older, birth control’s not to blame! It’s definitely not because you’re a long-term birth control user. 

Fertility changes with age and a woman’s peak reproductive years are usually between the late teens and late 20s. Hence, women tend to face a decrease in fertility by age 30 which becomes more rapid as they grow older. By 45, it’ll be challenging and unlikely for women to naturally become pregnant. 

You may not know this but women are actually born with a fixed number of eggs in their ovaries, which is estimated to be around two million. As they grow older, the number of eggs decreases. Upon hitting puberty, it would have already decreased to about 400,000 eggs! 

As the remaining eggs in older women are likely to contain abnormal chromosomes, there is also a higher risk of fertility-related disorders like uterine fibroids (non-cancerous growths of the uterus) and endometriosis. 

Essentially, female fertility can be affected by age as both the quality and quantity of eggs decline.

When should I forgo reversible birth control if I’m trying to conceive?

It doesn’t matter if you’re a short-term or long-term birth control user. As long as you’re off birth control, your body should naturally start to ovulate again.

If you’re trying to conceive and have already come off birth control for a few months, don’t worry if you’re not pregnant yet. Sometimes, this can take anywhere from a few months up to a year.

But if your menstrual cycle doesn’t resume for an extended period of time after stopping birth control, you may want to consider seeking professional help. 

Comparing birth control methods: how long it takes to become fertile again

Birth Control Method Duration
The combination pill and the mini pill– Your menstrual cycle should resume once you stop taking the pill
– Can take up to three months
Hormonal or copper IUD– Your menstrual cycle should resume within a month after removal
– Can take up to three months
The vaginal ring and contraceptive patchYour menstrual cycle should resume within the normal three months after discontinuing use 
The contraceptive injection or shotYour menstrual cycle can take up to a year to resume

Some parting advice 

Although it may take longer for some to resume their natural menstrual cycle after stopping reversible hormonal contraception, this is usually a temporary delay. Generally, long-term birth control use will also not affect your ability to conceive at a later stage. 

So relax and give your body some time to readjust! If you’re still worried or simply want to find out more about your birth control options, don’t hesitate to connect with one of Siena’s doctors today.

References: 

Categories
Birth Control Health

Hormonal Birth Control, Blood Clots and COVID-19: Should You Be Concerned?

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You may have heard of this rare side effect that comes with taking hormonal birth control — blood clots. But is it actually a real cause for worry?

Hormonal birth control remains one of the safest and most effective methods to prevent pregnancy and even has other benefits like alleviating painful period symptoms. 

But, as with all kinds of medications, there are bound to be certain side effects. This article will deep dive further to understand the risks of blood clots from hormonal contraceptives, as well as the connection between COVID-19 and blood clots for those who are taking birth control (and you’ll see that there really is no major cause for worry). 

What are Blood Clots?

Blood clots form when certain parts of your blood thicken and subsequently become a semi-solid mass. Sometimes, clotting occurs in areas it’s not supposed to and can cause damage. Types of dangerous blood clots include:

1. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT is a clot that forms inside one or more of the deep veins in specifically the legs or the arms. (Source: Pandia Health)

Several signs of DVT include: 

  • Swelling (near the area of the clot) 
  • Leg or arm pain and tenderness which may feel like cramps 
  • Red or blue skin discolouration at the area where the clot formed 
  • Warm skin

2. Pulmonary Embolism (PE) 

PE happens when the clots that form in a DVT break loose and travel up to the lungs via the bloodstream, thus blocking blood flow. It is best to treat this type of blood clot as soon as possible and this requires you to recognise some of the signs and symptoms. (Source: Pandia Health)

  • Shortness of breath 
  • Chest pain that intensifies when you take a deep breath 
  • Elevated heart rate 
  • Bloody cough

Hormonal Birth Control and Blood Clots

Birth control does not cause blood clots. However, it is associated with an increased risk of blood clots.

Why is there a risk of blood clots associated with hormonal birth control? 

Combined hormonal birth control such as the pill, patch and the vaginal ring contains the hormones estrogen. As estrogen increases plasma fibrinogen and coagulation activity in the body, this may lead to the development of blood clots. However, estrogen does not directly cause blood clots. What it does is increase both the risks and levels of clotting factors. 

Blood clots from the birth control pill are extremely rare

Between three and nine women in every 10,000 who take oral birth control pills will develop a blood clot, according to data from the FDA (That’s a 0.3 to 0.09% risk if you prefer to think of it that way). Further studies also found that only 1 in 3000 women per year who are on the pill will develop a blood clot. 

This means that your risk of experiencing a blood clot while using the pill is very small.

Birth control has become increasingly safe over time

The risk for DVT or PE is overall very low with hormonal contraceptives. In the past, combination birth control pills contained a higher dose of estrogen, which increased the risk of DVT and PE. Now the combination pill contains a lower dose of estrogen, and the risk is reduced.

Factors that may affect your risks of blood clots

Although blood clots are rare, it is worth noting that risk changes accordingly with other factors like:

  1. Age (generally above 45)
  2. Certain medical conditions such as family history of heart disease or blood clots
  3. Behaviours like smoking: Every additional cigarette increases your risk. Your risk of experiencing a blood clot from using birth control is higher if you smoke, with smokers aged 35 or older the highest risk group.

It’s important to inform your healthcare provider when you discuss birth control if any of the factors above apply to you.

Hormonal Birth Control, COVID-19 and Blood Clots

Does COVID-19 increase my chances of getting blood clots if I’m on hormonal birth control?

The short answer is no.

COVID-19 has been shown to cause clotting throughout the body. At this point, it is not established that you’re at a greater risk for getting blood clots if you contract the coronavirus while on hormonal medication. (Source: Cleveland Clinic)

Should I stop taking hormonal birth control during the pandemic?

In fact, it is advisable to continue using combined oral contraception without stopping unnecessarily to reduce the risks of unplanned pregnancy. There has been no evidence thus far pointing to any health outcomes associated with the use of contraception prior to and during COVID-19 infection. (Source: The Faculty of Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare of the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists)

Is it safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine while on hormonal birth control?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is safe for people on hormonal birth control to receive any FDA-authorised COVID-19 vaccine. There has also been no observed risk for those who received the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines while taking hormonal birth control.

Even so, it’s important to remain open and honest with healthcare professionals about the medication you’re taking.

In Conclusion

While blood clots can become a serious health issue, it is safe to say that there generally isn’t much risk associated with birth control and it will not severely impact your reproductive health. 

Some advice to reduce risks of blood clots includes regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet and watching your weight. 

If you are still unsure or concerned, connect with one of Siena’s doctors to speak about your personal risk for blood clots and the best birth control option for you.

References:

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Birth Control Emergency Contraception Health Sexual Health

Missed Birth Control Pills: What To Do If You Forget Your Pills?

Credit: Illustration by Siena Health

Realising you missed your birth control pills can be a scary and stressful experience, and we know that. So here’s a step-by-step guide on what you can do to ease your worries! 

Perhaps you were running late and in a moment of panic, you couldn’t afford to indulge in your regular morning routine. Or you didn’t purchase your refills in time and realised it was way too late. 

Whichever’s the case, missing your birth control pills can most definitely leave you in a flurry, especially when you have devoted yourself to it. But alas, it happens so don’t beat yourself up about it! Thankfully, there are ways to manage this (mini) crisis. 

If you missed your pills, your next line of action should take into consideration:

  • Number of pills you have missed 
  • When you missed the pill (how far in are you with your pack)
  • Type of birth control pill you’re on (combined contraceptive pill or the progestogen-only pill)

The information leaflet that comes with your contraceptive pills should also have stated specific instructions on the steps you should take regarding the specific brand of birth control you are on. 

Symptoms you may notice if you missed your pills 

If you aren’t 100% sure, there are several symptoms that are pretty clear indicators you missed taking your birth control pills. The most common side effect is light bleeding or starting your period. You may experience menstrual cramps and nausea associated with it. 

Typically, there’s nothing to worry about and everything should return to normal once you’re back on the contraceptive pills regularly!

Combined contraceptive pill

The combined contraceptive pill contains both estrogen and progestin. There is a great variety of combined contraceptive pills you can choose from but some of the common combination pill brand names include Yaz, Yasmin, Microgynon 30, Liza, Mercilon and Drospera. A combination pill is considered “missed” if you don’t take it for 24 hours or more after you were supposed to. 

If you are late (less than 24 hours) or missed (24 to 48 hours) an active pill

You’re still protected against pregnancy if you missed 1 pill anywhere in the pack or started a new pack 1 day (24 hours) late. 

Follow these steps:

  1. Take the late or missed pill immediately
  2. Continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time (even if it means taking two pills on the same day)
  3. Take the 7-day pill-free break as prescribed or if you’re on an everyday pill, take the inactive pills 
  4. Emergency contraception is not usually needed but can be considered if hormonal pills were missed earlier in the cycle or in the last week of the previous cycle
  5. No additional contraceptive protection (e.g. condoms) needed

If you missed two or more active pills (48 hours or more)

When this happens, it greatly increases your chances of ovulation. In this case, when you missed 2 or more active pills anywhere in the pack or started a new pack only after 2 days (48 hours) or more, you may not be protected against pregnancy. 

What you should do:

  1. Take the last pill that you missed immediately even if it means taking 2 pills a day 
  2. Discard any earlier missed pills 
  3. If the missed pill is within: 
    • Week 1 (pills 1 to 7) or Week 2 (pills 8 to 14) of the pack:
      • Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
      • Take the inactive (sugar) pills or a 7-day break
      • Begin a new pack the next day
    • Week 3 of the pack (pills 15 to 21): 
      • Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
      • When you have finished taking all the active pills, discard the pack
      • Don’t take the inactive (sugar) pills or a 7-day break, begin a new pack the next day
  4. Consider taking emergency contraception if you missed 2 or more pills during the first week of a pack and/or had unprotected sex in the last 7 days
  5. Use extra contraception (i.e. condoms) or abstain from sex for the next 7 days 

If you missed inactive pills 

If you miss 1 or more inactive (sugar) pills, simply throw away the missed pills and take the next pill at the usual time. Remember, you also have to stay on track with your active pills as there should be no more than 7 consecutive active pill-free days between packs.  

Missed birth control pills: a brief overview

ScenarioRecommended ActionsEmergency ContraceptionBack-up Birth Control
Late or missed 1 active pill– Take the late or missed pill immediately
– Continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time (even if it means taking two pills on the same day).		Consider only if you missed the pill earlier in the pack or in the last week of your previous packNot required
Missed 2 or more active pills– Take the last pill that you missed immediately even if it means taking 2 pills a day
– Discard any earlier missed pills 

If you missed the pill within week 1 – 2 of the pack (pills 1 to 14):
– Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
– Take the inactive (sugar) pills or a 7-day break, begin a new pack the next day

If you missed the pill within week 3 of the pack (pills 15 to 21):
– Continue to take the active pills in your current pack daily
– Skip the inactive (sugar) pills or 7-day break, begin a new pack the next day		Consider only if you missed 2 or more pills during the first week of a pack and/or had unprotected sex in the last 7 days.Use extra contraception or abstain from sex for the next 7 days 
Missed 1 or more inactive pills– Discard missed pills and take the next pill at the usual timeNot requiredNot required

Progestogen-only pill or mini pill 

Unlike the combined contraceptive pill, progestogen-only pills (aka mini pills) contain progestin and not estrogen. They are taken continuously without any hormone-free breaks. 

If you missed a pill within the 3-hour (mini pills) or 12-hour window period (desogestrel pill)

You will still be protected against pregnancy if you are: 

  • Less than 3 hours late in taking a progestogen-only pill
  • Less than 12 hours late in taking a desogestrel pill

What you should do: 

  1. Take your missed pill as soon as you remember 
  2. Take your next pill at the usual time 
  3. There’s no need for an additional form of contraception or emergency contraception even if you’ve had unprotected sex

If you missed a pill for more than 3 hours (mini pills) or 12 hours (desogestrel pill)

Heads-up, according to the National Health Service, you’re likely unprotected against pregnancy! 

What you should do: 

  1. Take 1 pill as soon as you remember even if you have missed more than 1 pill
  2. Take your next pill at the usual time – this may mean taking 2 pills in a day (1 when you remember and the other at the usual time) which is totally okay to do so 
  3. Continue taking your remaining pills daily at the same time 
  4. You may need emergency contraception if you’ve had unprotected sex in the last 5 days
  5. Use back-up contraceptives for the next 2 days (48 hours) after taking the missed pills or simply refrain from having sex 

Useful tips to help you remember to take your pills on time

Whether or not you’re trying out a new routine to remind yourself to take the pill or ensuring you’re way more well-equipped after your first “missed birth control pill” scare, the following list of tips we’ve compiled will definitely help you.  

  • Opt for another birth control method such as the patch as it only needs to be changed once a week 
  • Set a recurring alarm or reminder on your phone 
  • Use a birth control pill reminder application 
  • Incorporate it into your daily routine 
  • Place the pills in an easily noticeable spot (e.g. bedside table, beside your toothbrush)
  • Get your partner to remind you

Seek help if you need to

We totally get that it can be real confusing knowing you missed your pill and the follow-up steps taken vary depending on what type of birth control pill you’re on. But hopefully, this condensed guide can be your saving grace in times of need (and that you won’t be referencing it anytime soon!).

Feel free to reach out to Siena’s doctors, if you are unsure which instructions pertain to your oral contraceptive pills or to discuss any other concerns you may have with your birth control method. 

References:

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Birth Control Health Period

Managing Migraines with Birth Control

Do you frequently experience migraines that frustrate the life out of you? Learn more about its causes and how birth control can help you cope.

Two types of headaches that are linked to your menstrual cycles

Tension headaches 

There are different types of headaches that vary in terms of their causes and nature of pain. But one of the most common forms of headache pain (aka tension headaches) may be linked to your menstrual cycle. The pain resulting from tension headaches tends to spread across both sides of the head and you’ll also experience slight pressure.

A study conducted among 165 female patients established menstrual tension-type headache as a real disorder that could represent a variant of migraine headaches. Thus, some women do experience tension headaches around the time of their period.

Menstrual migraines

Women who experience migraines reported that the attacks usually occur either right before or during their periods. This is also known as menstrual migraine. (Source: The Migraine Trust) 

A migraine is not merely a severe headache. Rather, migraine is a disabling neurological disease and headaches are only one symptom of migraines that can range in severity and length. It usually starts off as a one-sided throbbing headache, alongside other symptoms like nausea, dizziness, extreme fatigue, and increased sensitivity to light, sound or smells. 

More often than not, migraine attacks can be spontaneous as well. Thus, it is easier to detect the causes of headaches as migraines typically have several common triggers without a single cause. These triggers may vary depending on individuals:

  • Gender and hormonal shifts: Menstrual cycles and hormonal changes can cause menstrual migraines. In fact, migraine is three times more common among women than men and in the United States, it affects approximately 37% of women during their reproductive years. 
  • Allergies: Body irritation and inflammation as migraines are associated with the inflammation of blood vessels. 
  • Family history and genes: There’s often a hereditary link so you’re more likely to experience migraines if you have family members who suffer from the same problem.
  • The environment: This covers a wide range of factors from changes in weather, stress, lack of sleep and even food.

Why you may experience headaches or migraines around the time of your period

Hormonal imbalance

The cause of menstrual migraines is best explained by a drop in estrogen levels during your period whereby sensitivity toward such hormonal fluctuations makes you more vulnerable to migraines. It can also happen if you’re pregnant or going through menopause.

Low iron levels

Another reason why you may experience headaches after your period is because of low iron levels after shedding blood and tissue during your period. Especially for those who usually experience heavy period flow, greater loss of blood may cause iron deficiencies and thus trigger headaches.

Hormonal treatment to prevent migraines

Maintaining hormone levels during your period

Birth control like the combination pill, progestin-only pill, patch and even vaginal ring are forms of treatments that can help to relieve symptoms of migraine through hormonal balancing. Not only do they help to stabilise estrogen levels by regulating hormones throughout your menstrual cycle, but they also reduce uncomfortable period symptoms. Low-dose estrogen birth control pills are normally recommended to prevent migraines as you can avoid experiencing a sharp drop in hormone levels during your period.

Skipping periods

Otherwise, you may also choose to opt for a continuous dose of the pill to reduce the likelihood of migraines. This essentially means you continue taking active, low-dose estrogen pills instead of placebo pills during the seven inactive days. Thus, the steady dose of estrogen should prevent the drop in hormones that usually occurs once you stop taking active pills on inactive days. Altogether, this should help you reduce the severity and frequency of migraines while experiencing lesser withdrawal bleeding. 

If you’re on birth control that comes with the sugar (placebo) pills, simply skip them and start a new pack so that hormones are continuously released into your bloodstream. 

That’s right, birth control isn’t just for preventing pregnancy as skipping periods may even improve your quality of life because of certain benefits! Besides potentially preventing migraines and headaches, birth control can also reduce symptoms associated with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and symptoms of your periods like menstrual cramps, bloating and even acne.

Lifestyle changes to cope with migraines

Although there’s no single cure for migraine, lifestyle changes can help you counter the negative effects. This includes: 

  • Regular exercise 
  • Adopting a healthy diet to avoid trigger foods 
  • Improving sleep habits 
  • Practising relaxation techniques (e.g. yoga, meditation) 

Keeping a journal or record of your migraine episodes can also help you track patterns such as the duration and symptoms to identify potential causes. You’ll definitely be more well-equipped to deal with your migraines by recognising and avoiding triggers.

Need help?

If you do have a history of migraines, it’s best to consult a doctor before you begin a new birth control method. With Siena, you can even have your consults online and preferred birth control delivered straight to your doorstep for free!

References: 


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Birth Control Sexual Health

Birth Control Patch: 7 Facts You Should Know

Credit: Illustration by Siena Health

Don’t shy away from the birth control patch! Simple and convenient, it’s a seamless integration into your everyday routine and here are the reasons why.

With a variety of birth control to choose from, you may or may not have overlooked the birth control patch as another great alternative for your contraception needs. Or perhaps you’re unfamiliar with how the patch works and would rather stick to methods you’re used to. Nevertheless, the birth control patch is meant to be just as effective as birth control pills and may even be easier to use. 

A quick survey of the local landscape surrounding birth control based on a 2016 survey study: Singaporean women have low awareness and knowledge of hormonal intrauterine devices (IUD), the patch and the vaginal ring. This was the first survey study that assessed Singaporean women’s awareness and knowledge of contraception in Singapore. Thus, there were only a sparse few who actually used the patch. (Source: Singapore Medical Journal) 

Even though the patch may not be as popular as condoms or the pills, it works just the same in helping you prevent pregnancy. Especially if you dislike popping pills or if you’re afraid of going through with bigger commitments such as the implants and IUD, the patch is a perfect midway option. 

Read on as we cover how the birth control patch works, its benefits, and more!

1. The patch works by delivering hormones through your skin and into your bloodstream

Similar to birth control pills, the birth control patch contains two hormones estrogen and progesterone, which work together to prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation. When you wear the patch, it releases these hormones which your body subsequently absorbs through the skin.

The patch is able to stop ovulation while the hormones in the patch also thicken the cervical mucus, preventing sperm from entering the uterus. The hormones also thin the uterine lining which makes the implantation of a fertilised egg difficult.

Similar to birth control pills, the birth control patch is 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy with perfect usage. But in real-life conditions, such as incorrect application or forgetting to replace the patch, they become about 91 percent effective. In comparison to the pill, however, the patch is a great alternative if you find daily pill-popping a hassle.

2. The patch is designed to be fun-sized and discreet 

Image credit: Siena Health

The birth control patch looks like a plaster, as it is a small and sticky square patch that is usually thin and beige in colour.

Worried about them being too obvious? You can apply them to the skin on your upper outer arm, abdomen, buttocks or upper torso. Take note: do not apply the birth control patch to your breasts or somewhere easily irritated by clothing.

3. You only need to think of the patch once a week

Application

The following steps are really important to ensure you use the patch accurately and effectively. 

Firstly, open the pouch containing the patch and remove the protective film. Apply the sticky side of the patch onto your skin by exerting slight pressure for at least 10 seconds to ensure it is properly attached before smoothing out any wrinkles. 

Thereafter, you can change your birth control patch each week over a period of three weeks and go without the patch during the fourth week. Similar to getting your period, you’ll experience withdrawal bleeding. After the fourth week has ended, start your next cycle with a new patch.

For first-time users of the patch 

Once the birth control patch has been prescribed to you, apply the first patch during the first 24 hours of your period. It becomes effective immediately after application within the first five days of your period. And yes, now you don’t have to worry about relying on any other back-up contraceptive methods! 

Alternatively, if you decide to use the first patch on the first Sunday after your period has started or you apply your first patch more than five days after your period started, the patch will not take effect immediately. Meanwhile, you should use an additional form of contraception (i.e. condoms) for the next seven days.  

Mark your calendars — note down the first day you apply the birth control patch and designate it as your next “patch-change” day! 

Each patch lasts for seven days so you’ll have to keep it on throughout and replace the patch exactly one week from the date you first applied it.

Extra tips:

  • Apply the patch on completely clean and dry skin
  • Avoid using lotion, oil, powder and makeup on the area you plan to apply the patch to
  • Try to store your unused birth control patches in a dry and room-temperature environment away from direct sunlight
  • Do not remove the patch from the pouch if you don’t intend to use it yet

4. Fuss-free removal process

Image credit: wikiHow

To remove the birth control patch, all you need to do is peel off the old one and replace it with a new one. It’s best to fold the adhesive sides of the old patch together before disposal so that it is not exposed. Do not flush the patch in the toilet as this may contaminate the water supply with hormones.

5. Do daily checks on your patch

This is an unlikely scenario as the birth control patch is designed to be firmly attached to your skin. You can safely shower, exercise and even swim with the patch. 

But in the event the patch does come loose or fall off, there are ways to get back on track! 

Prone to bad memory and sticking to a schedule? Don’t freak out because even if you really do forget to change your patch and it’s been less than two days (48 hours), just reapply a patch immediately and subsequently change your patch on the same day as the previous patch. If it’s only come loose, you can stick it back on and continue using it. 

However, if the patch has come off for more than two days or you’re unsure how long it has been since the patch fell off, reapply a new patch immediately and use another birth control method for at least a week. You’ll also have to begin a new four-week cycle and take note of the day you applied the replacement patch. The day on which you apply the new patch will be the new “first day” of the new application cycle. 

It’s uncommon for the birth control patch to fall off if you’ve followed the instructions closely. To prevent it from happening, try to cultivate a habit of checking your patch daily to ensure it’s still firmly attached to your skin. If the patch does not completely stick to your skin, immediately replace it with a new patch.

There is also a handy tool available online if you ever lose track of your birth control schedule and require help ASAP! 

6. The patch has other non-contraceptive benefits 

Similar to the benefits of other forms of hormonal birth control, the hormones in the patch can also help to lighten and regulate your periods while alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It can even lower the risks of developing cysts in your breasts and ovaries. (Source: Planned Parenthood)

7. You can use your birth control patch to skip your period

A long-awaited holiday trip coming up? Attending a pool party in a couple of weeks? Or simply longing to head to the beach? With the birth control patch, you can be sure to leave all your period worries behind during times like these!

If you’d like to skip your period altogether, use the patch every week. This means starting a new pack of patches every three weeks without any break in between (i.e. continue using the patch during the fourth week). By doing this, the constant stream of hormones in your bloodstream eliminates your monthly withdrawal bleed.

What are you waiting for? 

Surely by now, you’re more familiar with the various upsides of the birth control patch and why it’s so convenient and easily reversible! Using the patch is definitely an effortless and painless process since it only needs to be applied once a week.

Feel free to check in with any of Siena’s female doctors before trying out or switching to a new birth control method. We’re most happy to help you find your most suitable, discreet and favoured birth control!

References:

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Birth Control Health

Does Birth Control Make You Gain Weight?

The truth about birth control and weight gain: it is largely due to water retention instead of actual increase in body fat! 

Are you reluctant to get birth control because you believe it may cause weight gain?

Weight gain is a common risk that most women are afraid of when it comes to birth control. And we do recognise why this may be a cause of concern. It’s one of those side effects you’re bound to constantly debate about with your girlfriends and still come to no clear conclusion at the end of the day.

But is this necessarily true? 

With a wide range of birth control options available now, it’s inevitable different individuals may react differently as well. Especially as birth control is more effective if you use it consistently, weight gain is also attributed to other factors such as lifestyle habits and routines or changes in metabolism as you age.

Most women don’t experience weight gain 

This may come as a form of reassurance but the majority of people on birth control do not actually experience weight gain. Any initial increase in weight is due to water retention rather than an increase in body fat and mass. As birth control may initially lead to water retention, you may feel a little bloated at the start. These effects are temporary and go away within a few weeks after starting birth control.

In fact, a 2008 study of 150 female athletes over two years found that oral contraceptives did not cause weight or fat mass gain. Similarly, a 2014 systematic review revealed that there was no significant causal relationship between weight gain and combination contraceptives as women taking birth control, compared with those in the placebo group, showed no substantial difference in weight.  

All in all, the hormones in birth control may trigger bodily changes but the idea that birth control leads to lasting weight gain is not a factual claim. 

Higher estrogen levels

Combined hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, patches and even the vaginal ring typically contain estrogen which prevents ovulation. This occurs as a compound (renin-angiotensin) created by the kidneys becomes stimulated because of the additional estrogen circulating throughout your body. This prompts your body to retain more fluid before your period. Essentially, higher estrogen levels may lead to a slightly higher level of water retention for those on the pill. However, there will usually be a decrease in weight after your period is over. 

Most birth control pills have approximately 30 to 35 micrograms of hormones but if you’re worried about the current dosage of estrogen in your pills, it’s best to consult your doctor and opt for a low-dose estrogen pill which will contain around 20 micrograms of estrogen.  

Higher doses of estrogen can potentially stimulate appetite, which may cause increased calorie intake in some women. 

Birth control implants and shots may be exceptions 

Hormonal implants, which are a form of long-term, reversible birth control may cause weight gain. This method works by inserting an implant into your arm, thereby releasing a synthetic hormone called etonogestrel into your bloodstream. Etonogestrel imitates progesterone by attempting to regulate your menstrual cycle alongside estrogen. 

Birth control shots can contribute to an increase in weight gain from water retention as its effects are meant to last for three months. Alternatively, you may want to opt for low-dose estrogen birth control pills instead. 

A final note

Always check with your doctor if you’re worried about the potential side effects or switching to a new type of birth control that fits your lifestyle. Other plausible causes for sudden weight gain may also be due to underlying health conditions such as thyroid disorders and diabetes. If you do experience bloating, keep in mind it is only temporary and there are other ways you can cope!

Here are some tips on how to reduce water retention: 

  • Lesser salt intake 
  • Staying well-hydrated 
  • Exercise consistently to move your muscles 
  • Wearing compression stockings during prolonged standing 

At Siena, we want to find the most effective and suitable birth control for you that also steers you away as much as possible from any unwanted side effects! Speak to any of our female doctors now from the comfort of your own home to explore your options.

References:

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Birth Control Health Period

Period Pain and Birth Control: How Contraceptives Can Help You Alleviate Your Menstrual Cramps

Do you suffer from excruciating period pain every month knowing you just have to wait it out? Well, birth control is a solution you should definitely keep in mind!

What’s the science behind menstrual cramps?  

It’s pretty much a known fact that period pain is no fun at all and most women are bound to experience it every month. Even then, women can have varying encounters with period cramps. While some regularly face this problem, some are lucky enough to rarely experience it. Of course, most of us may have gotten used to this cycle since our teenage years and it’s just something we accept as part of female reproductive life. But have you ever wondered why this monthly inconvenience comes with its own set of unpleasant characteristics? 

Dysmenorrhea, also known as menstrual cramps, refers to the pain associated with your period. It is usually in the form of throbbing or cramp-like pains in the lower abdomen which occurs just before and during menstruation. There are two types of dysmenorrhea — primary and secondary. 

Primary Dysmenorrhea  

This is the most common type of period pain which most women experience and is not caused by another condition. Simply put, the pain is caused by the period itself. Approximately 50 to 90 percent of the female population suffer from primary dysmenorrhea and its effects are severe on 10 percent of women for one to three days a month. 

During your menstrual period, the contraction of the uterus allows it to shed its lining. Yes, this is necessary and yet often painful. The pain is actually caused by hormone-like substances (prostaglandins) that are produced by the uterine lining cells which then circulate into your bloodstream. This ultimately triggers the tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscle and it is these contractions that cause cramps. Typically, higher levels of prostaglandins tend to lead to more severe menstrual cramps.

Secondary Dysmenorrhea 

Apart from the common and tolerable pain most women suffer through during their period, some may have it worse due to certain medical conditions that intensify the pain. This usually starts later in life. 

  • Adenomyosis: a condition that causes the inner lining of the uterus to break into the uterus’ muscle walls 
  • Cervical stenosis: a smaller cervix opening can impede menstrual flow and lead to a painful increase of pressure within the uterus 
  • Endometriosis: the tissue lining the uterus grows outside the womb and on the fallopian tubes, ovaries or tissue lining the pelvis instead 
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease: sexually transmitted bacteria that infects the female reproductive organs 
  • Uterine fibroids: non-cancerous growths of the uterus

I’ve been thinking about going on the pill to help with the cramps.

If you’re already on birth control, you probably already know how fuss-free and effective it is in preventing pregnancy. But what about its other non-contraceptive benefits? 

Hormonal birth control is one treatment method used to ease menstrual cramps. Primarily, oral birth control pills contain hormones such as estrogen and progestin which deter ovulation and the production of prostaglandins, thus lowering the severity of period pain. 

A randomised controlled trial conducted in 2012 revealed the effectiveness of taking combination birth control pills cyclically (21 days with active pills followed by seven days of placebo) and those taken continually. The latter involves the continuous administration of active pills during all 28 days, without any placebo at all. As continuous OCP means that users only take the hormone pills and skip the inactive pills, they forgo the monthly bleeding altogether. Both methods were successful in treating primary dysmenorrhea. 

Alternatively, other birth control methods such as patches, the ring, intrauterine devices and implants are also able to alleviate cramps, and even cause periods to become lighter and more predictable.

By using these prescribed birth control methods, you can also safely skip your periods altogether. To postpone or skip your period, you should immediately start on a new pack of active pills right away without taking the sugar pills (inactive pills). 

It’s best to speak with a doctor before trying any new birth control methods or making major adjustments. 

But I’m worried, will there be any side effects?

For first-timers on the pill, don’t worry! It’s natural for your body to take time to adapt to the hormonal changes.

Some women may still temporarily experience discomfort and period-like symptoms at the start. Symptoms such as cramping and spotting may arise if you forget to take your birth control pill.

How we can help

There are different types of birth control for different requirements. If you’re looking to speak with a healthcare professional on coping with menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea, feel free to talk to one of Siena’s female-only doctors now!

References: